Tiny Fruit, Big Personality πβ¨
Cherries are the rockstars of the stone fruit familyβsmall, vibrant, and packing a flavor punch that ranges from honey-sweet π― to lip-puckering tart π. These glossy little orbs grow in pairs (how cute is that? π―) and come with their own built-in handles (the stems!).
Fun Fact: The darker the cherry, the more antioxidants it’s got. πͺ Consider that your excuse to eat an entire bowl. π½οΈ
Meet the Cherry Squad π―βοΈ
- Bing Cherries π΄ β The supermarket staple. Deep red, ultra-sweet, and satisfyingly crunchy.
- Rainier Cherries π β The luxury pick. Golden with a rosy blush and honey-like sweetness (when in season!).
- Montmorency π₯§ β The pie MVP. Tart and usually sold canned/frozen.
- Sour Cherries π β The pucker-up variety! Smaller, softer, and perfect for:
- Jams & preserves π―
- Classic cherry pies π₯§
- Eastern European desserts π½οΈ
Pro Tip: Fresh sour cherries are rare in stores β check farmers markets or specialty grocers!
Cherry Seasonality: When to Buy π
π Global Availability:
- Northern Summer βοΈ (June-August): Peak season for local cherries
- Southern Summer π (November-February): Imported from Chile/Argentina
- Year-Round ποΈ: Available but pricier and less flavorful
Best Value: Buy during your local peak season!
What to Look For: π
β
Color π¨ β Deep, uniform hues (no green! π«)
β
Shine β¨ β Glossy = fresh
β
Stems πΏ β Green and flexible
β
Firmness β β Plump and squeaky
What to Avoid: π«
π« Squishy spots π¦
π« Stemless
π« Juice stains in container or bag. Could indicate they are too ripe and starting to turn mush
Size Matters… But Not How You Think! π
Cherries are graded by diameter:
- Small: 20-22mm
- Medium: 22-24mm (most common)
- Large: 24-28mm
- Jumbo: 28mm+ (showstoppers!)
Pro Tip: Size affects texture more than flavor since you are biting into more meat. However, bigger ones would generally be more expensive.
How Cherries Are Sold ππ°
- Fresh π: Usually in ventilated plastic bags and by weight
- Frozen βοΈ: Usually pitted, great for baking
- Canned π₯«: Often sour cherries in syrup
- Dried π: Like nature’s candy
Price Note: More expensive than most fruits due to delicate harvesting
Storage Tips π§π¦
- Fridge βοΈ: 5-7 days in vented container (Don’t wash until eating!)
- Freezer β³: Pit first, freeze on tray, then bag (6 months)
- Pro Trick π©: Add paper towel to absorb moisture
Why Cherries Rock π
- Sleep aid π΄ β Natural melatonin
- Anti-inflammatory π β Anthocyanins fight aches
- Low-GI π β Sweet but steady energy
- Pies & desserts – Anyone want cherry pie or ice cream?
