When the vibrant hues of summer arrive in India, alongside the beloved mango, another equally captivating fruit graces our markets: the cherry. These small, spherical jewels, ranging from bright ruby red to deep, almost black, offer a delightful burst of sweet and sometimes tart flavour. While not as ubiquitously cultivated as some other fruits, cherries hold a special place, particularly in the cooler climes of India.
- You can try my popular Mango Smoothie Bowl
- Summer Salads to beat the heat
- Gadbad Falooda Recipe
- Amla Beetroot Tikki Recipe
The majority of India's cherry production hails from the northern, mountainous regions, where the climate provides the ideal conditions for their growth. Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand are the primary cherry-growing states.
Cherries in India come in both sweet and tart varieties.
Beyond their delicious taste, cherries are a nutritional powerhouse.
- Fresh Snacking: The simplest and arguably best way to enjoy cherries is fresh, chilled, and eaten plain.
- Desserts: Cherries are a natural fit for desserts.
They can also be incorporated into kheer, fruit custards, or as a vibrant topping for ice cream and shrikhand. - Beverages: From refreshing Cherry Limeade to smoothies and mocktails, cherries add a beautiful colour and flavour profile.
It's great to have fresh cherries in Pune right now! Their season is short, so it's the perfect time to make some easy and delicious cherry recipes. Here are a few ideas, ranging from super simple snacks to slightly more involved (but still easy!) desserts, with a mix of Indian and international influences:
Quick and Easy Cherry Snacks:
These require minimal effort and let the cherries shine:
Chilled Cherries:
- How to: Simply wash your fresh cherries thoroughly. For an extra refreshing treat, chill them in the refrigerator for at least an hour.
- Why it's easy: No cooking, no chopping, just pure cherry goodness.
- Tip: Pitting them beforehand (a cherry pitter or a simple straw/chopstick works wonders) makes for easier snacking.
Cherry Yogurt Parfait:
- How to: Layer fresh, pitted cherries with plain yogurt (Greek yogurt for extra creaminess), and a drizzle of honey or maple syrup. Add a sprinkle of granola or chopped nuts for crunch.
- Why it's easy: Assemble in minutes for a healthy breakfast or snack.
- Tip: Use a mix of sweet and tart cherries for a balanced flavour.
Cherry & Cheese Skewers:
- How to: Thread pitted cherries onto small skewers alternating with cubes of a mild cheese like paneer, mozzarella, or feta.
- Why it's easy: A quick, colourful, and elegant snack or appetizer.
- Tip: A balsamic glaze drizzle can elevate this for an adult palate.
Cherry Chocolate Bites:
- How to: Melt some dark chocolate (you can do this in a microwave or double boiler). Dip fresh, pitted cherries into the melted chocolate, shaking off excess. Place on parchment paper and chill until set.
- Why it's easy: Only 2 ingredients and minimal fuss for a decadent treat.
- Tip: A sprinkle of sea salt before the chocolate sets adds a gourmet touch.
Simple Cherry Desserts
These take a little more time but are still beginner-friendly:
Cherry Lassi (as mentioned before, but worth repeating!):
- Ingredients: 1 cup pitted cherries, 1 cup plain yogurt, ½ cup chilled milk, 2-3 tbsp sugar (or to taste), pinch of cardamom powder (optional).
- How to: Blend all ingredients until smooth. Serve chilled.
- Why it's easy: Quick, refreshing, and a perfect Indian twist.
Cherry Crumble (or Cherry Crisp):
- Ingredients: 2 cups pitted cherries, 2 tbsp sugar, 1 tbsp cornstarch or flour (for filling). For the crumble topping: ½ cup all-purpose flour, ¼ cup sugar, ¼ cup packed brown sugar, ¼ tsp cinnamon, ¼ cup cold butter (cubed).
- How to: Toss cherries with sugar and cornstarch/flour in a baking dish. In a separate bowl, combine flour, sugars, and cinnamon for the topping. Cut in cold butter with your fingers or a pastry blender until crumbly. Sprinkle topping over cherries. Bake at 180 C for 30-40 minutes, or until bubbling and golden.
- Why it's easy: Mostly hands-off baking, and forgiving. Delicious with a scoop of vanilla ice cream!
No-Bake Cherry Cheesecake Cups:
- Ingredients: Crushed digestive biscuits (or any plain biscuits) mixed with a little melted butter for the base. For the filling: cream cheese, powdered sugar, a little lemon juice, and some cherry puree or finely chopped cherries.
- How to: Press biscuit mixture into the bottom of small glasses or ramekins. Beat cream cheese, sugar, and lemon juice until smooth. Fold in cherries. Spoon over biscuit base and chill for a few hours until set.
- Why it's easy: No baking required, impressive looking, and highly customizable.
Cherry Compote:
- Ingredients: 2 cups pitted cherries, ¼ cup sugar, 1-2 tbsp water or orange juice, a squeeze of lemon juice.
- How to: Combine all ingredients in a saucepan. Simmer over medium-low heat for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until cherries soften and the sauce thickens slightly.
- Why it's easy: Minimal ingredients and cooking time.
- Uses: Perfect over pancakes, waffles, toast, yogurt, ice cream, or even plain cake. Can be stored in the fridge for up to a week.
Enjoy experimenting with these easy cherry recipes while this beautiful fruit is in season. In conclusion, while not as widely cultivated as other fruits, the Indian cherry, with its vibrant colour, delightful taste, and impressive health benefits, is a true gem. Its short but sweet season makes it even more cherished, inviting us to explore its versatile uses in both traditional and contemporary Indian culinary creations.
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