LifestyleDiscover the hidden superfruit growing in the forests

Discover the hidden superfruit growing in the forests

Cornelian cherry is one of the healthiest fruits in the world.
Cornelian cherry is one of the healthiest fruits in the world.
Images source: © Adobe Stock | Robert Knapp

12 July 2024 10:03

Are you a fan of natural health methods? Consider incorporating cornelian cherries into your diet. They're among the healthiest fruits in the world, packed with valuable nutrients.

According to the World Health Organization's recommendations, fruits and vegetables should form the basis of our diet. It's worth choosing those delicious and rich in vitamins and essential elements.

It turns out that it is one of the healthiest fruits in the world. It's a true superfood that slows down the aging process and supports the proper functioning of the immune system. You can still gather it this month.

It's one of the healthiest fruits in the world

Cornelian cherry is a plant from the dogwood family. You can find it in forests, thickets, and some gardens. You'll recognize it by its distinctive dark red fruits that appear on the trees as early as the end of July.

What does cornelian cherry taste like? It tastes like a mix between cherry, cranberry, and plum. The fruits are very juicy and noticeably tart. When properly prepared, they make a fantastic base for jams, preserves, juices, or liqueurs.

It's one of the healthiest fruits in the world because it contains many valuable nutrients, such as vitamins A, C, and P. It also contains iron, potassium, calcium, phosphorus, zinc, copper, manganese, and strong antioxidants like polyphenols.

When consumed regularly, it supports the proper functioning of the immune system and slows down the body's aging process. It speeds up fat burning and strengthens the skin, hair, and nails. Due to its high iron content, it prevents anemia.

How to incorporate cornelian cherry into your daily diet?

Cornelian cherries ripen between the end of July and August. It's a good time to forage for them in the forest. Raw cornelian cherries have a somewhat tart taste, so it's worth turning them into juice after harvesting. You can add it to water or tea.

How to prepare cornelian cherry juice? Gather 1 kilogram (approximately 2 pounds) of fruits. After returning home, wash them thoroughly. Pour them into a pot and cover with boiling water. Leave them in the pot for 24 hours. Drain the water and cover it with boiling water the next day. This time, set the fruits aside for 48 hours.

On the third day, remove the water, add 1 kilogram (approximately 2 pounds) of sugar or another sweetener to the pot, and turn on the heat. Cook the fruits for 10 minutes. After 10 minutes, the fruits will release juice. Pour it into sterilized bottles, close them, and place them upside down. Pasteurized juice should be stored in a dark and cool place.

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