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Delicious Nanking Cherry Recipes for Every Occasion

Prunus tomentosa, commonly known as Nanking cherry, is a species of flowering plant native to Asia. It belongs to the Rosaceae family and is cultivated for both ornamental purposes and fruit production. The fruit is characterized by its small size, bright red color, and tart flavor, making it suitable for various culinary applications.

Nanking cherries are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, offering potential health benefits. The harvest period for Nanking cherries typically occurs in late spring or early summer, depending on local climate conditions. These plants are adaptable to different soil types and are relatively low-maintenance, making them popular among home gardeners.

The fruit is approximately the size of a large blueberry, featuring a thin skin encasing juicy, tart flesh. Nanking cherries can be consumed fresh or utilized in various food preparations. Common uses include jams, jellies, and preserves.

They are also incorporated into diverse recipes such as smoothies, salads, and sauces. The fruit’s distinctive flavor profile and versatility contribute to its appeal in culinary applications.

Nanking Cherry Jam Recipe

Preparing the Cherries and Pectin

Start by washing and removing the stems from about 4 cups of fresh Nanking cherries. Then, crush them in a large pot to release their natural juices. Add 1 package of powdered pectin to the pot and bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly.

Adding Sugar and Cooking the Jam

Once the mixture reaches a rolling boil, add 3 cups of sugar and continue to stir until it dissolves. Let the mixture boil for about 1 minute, then remove it from the heat and skim off any foam that has formed.

Canning the Jam

Next, ladle the hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving about 1/4 inch of headspace. Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean cloth, then place the lids on top and screw on the bands. Process the jars in a boiling water bath for about 10 minutes, then remove them and let them cool.

Enjoying Your Homemade Jam

Once cooled, check the seals and store the jars in a cool, dark place. This delicious Nanking cherry jam is perfect for spreading on toast, biscuits, or scones. Enjoy!

Nanking Cherry Smoothie Recipe

For a refreshing and nutritious Nanking cherry smoothie, you will need about 1 cup of fresh Nanking cherries, 1 banana, 1/2 cup of Greek yogurt, 1/2 cup of almond milk, and a handful of ice cubes. Start by pitting the cherries and slicing the banana. Place the cherries, banana, Greek yogurt, almond milk, and ice cubes in a blender and blend until smooth.

If the smoothie is too thick, you can add more almond milk to reach your desired consistency. This Nanking cherry smoothie is not only delicious but also packed with vitamins and antioxidants. The tartness of the cherries pairs perfectly with the creaminess of the yogurt and the sweetness of the banana.

It makes for a perfect breakfast or snack option that will leave you feeling energized and satisfied.

Nanking Cherry Salad Recipe

Ingredients Quantity
Nanking cherries 2 cups
Spinach 3 cups
Almonds 1/4 cup
Feta cheese 1/2 cup
Red onion 1/4 cup
Balsamic vinaigrette 3 tbsp

Nanking cherries can add a delightful burst of flavor to any salad. For a simple yet delicious Nanking cherry salad, you will need about 2 cups of mixed greens, 1/2 cup of fresh Nanking cherries (pitted and halved), 1/4 cup of crumbled feta cheese, 1/4 cup of chopped walnuts, and your favorite vinaigrette dressing. Start by arranging the mixed greens on a serving platter or individual plates.

Then scatter the Nanking cherries, feta cheese, and walnuts over the top. Drizzle the salad with your favorite vinaigrette dressing just before serving. The tartness of the Nanking cherries pairs beautifully with the creamy feta cheese and crunchy walnuts.

This salad is not only visually appealing but also bursting with flavor and texture. It makes for a perfect side dish or light lunch option that is sure to impress your guests.

Nanking Cherry BBQ Sauce Recipe

Nanking cherries can also be used to create a unique and flavorful BBQ sauce that is perfect for grilling season. To make Nanking cherry BBQ sauce, you will need about 2 cups of fresh Nanking cherries (pitted), 1/2 cup of ketchup, 1/4 cup of apple cider vinegar, 2 tablespoons of brown sugar, 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, and salt and pepper to taste. Start by placing the pitted Nanking cherries in a saucepan with the ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat and let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Once the cherries have softened and the sauce has thickened slightly, remove it from the heat. Next, carefully transfer the mixture to a blender or food processor and blend until smooth.

If you prefer a smoother sauce, you can strain it through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any remaining cherry skins. This homemade Nanking cherry BBQ sauce is perfect for slathering on grilled chicken, ribs, or even tofu. The sweet and tangy flavor of the cherries adds a unique twist to traditional BBQ sauce that is sure to impress your family and friends at your next cookout.

Nanking Cherry Crisp Recipe

For a delightful dessert featuring Nanking cherries, try making a Nanking cherry crisp. You will need about 4 cups of fresh Nanking cherries (pitted), 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, 1 cup of old-fashioned oats, 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of brown sugar, 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 cup of unsalted butter (cut into small pieces). Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and greasing a baking dish with butter or cooking spray.

In a large bowl, toss together the pitted Nanking cherries, granulated sugar, and cornstarch until well combined. Pour the cherry mixture into the prepared baking dish. In another bowl, combine the oats, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt.

Add the pieces of butter and use your fingers to work it into the dry ingredients until it forms a crumbly mixture. Sprinkle this topping evenly over the cherry mixture in the baking dish. Bake the crisp in the preheated oven for about 35-40 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and the cherry filling is bubbling around the edges.

Let it cool slightly before serving. This Nanking cherry crisp is best enjoyed warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In conclusion, Nanking cherries are a versatile and delicious fruit that can be used in a wide variety of culinary applications. From jams and smoothies to salads and BBQ sauce, there are countless ways to incorporate these tart little cherries into your cooking repertoire. Whether you grow them in your own backyard or find them at your local farmers’ market, Nanking cherries are definitely worth seeking out for their unique flavor and health benefits.

So next time you come across some fresh Nanking cherries, consider trying out one of these delightful recipes to make the most of this underrated fruit. Whether you opt for a sweet jam or a tangy BBQ sauce, you’re sure to be pleasantly surprised by the delightful flavor that Nanking cherries bring to your dishes. With their vibrant color and tart taste, these little cherries are sure to become a favorite ingredient in your kitchen.


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