Cherries
FACTS
 • The Cherry fruit is known to grow in many areas of the United States.

• Cherries are very versatile fruits and can be a part of any meal or dessert. From breakfast to soups and salads, these find their way into any food item easily!

• Cherries can be frozen and devoured whenever you wish!

• Studies have shown the cherry fruit to have plenty of health benefits.

• Cherries are known to provide pain relief for people who suffer from arthritis.

• Cherries are high in antioxidants that help to fight cancer and heart disease.

• Cherries are low in cholesterol, fat and sodium. They are also a very good source of fiber and Vitamin C.

• Cherries are also known to have a very short fruiting season.

• Cherries, which are plump and firm, are very good to taste.

• Cherries are also known to reduce muscle pain and back pain.

• Sweet cherries as well as tart cherries have very high levels of anthocyanins. This is the red pigment in the cherries, which helps to reduce the inflammation.

• Cherries do not ripen after harvest.

• 1 c. of cherries contains 82 calories.

COOKING & HANDLING TIPS
• Sweet as well as sour cherries can be used for jams. Sour cherries are used more often as an ingredient in pies and are suitable for making soufflés, cooked fruit compotes etc.

• Since the cherry fruit bruises easily, you need to handle them with care.

STORAGE TIPS
• Cherries should be refrigerated immediately, do not wash or cover. Storage time will vary, but may be up two weeks.

• To freeze cherries wash and dry them first and place in freezer - DO NOT PIT THEM. Frozen cherries can be stored for 6 to 12 months. Remove cherries from freezer and eat while frozen, be careful no to bite the pit, or thaw for 10 minutes prior to using for recipes. Never let them thaw completely before using.

• To can cherries wash and stem them first. Pit them if you desire. Pack cherries into clean, sterilized jars. Pour a sugar syrup over fruit (one cup sugar to three cups water, heated until sugar is dissolved). Apply proper lid. Process in boiling water bath for 20 min. Place in pints and quarts.