Preserved fruit can be enjoyed in many ways, from simple snacking to more elaborate culinary uses. Think of it as a sweet treat or flavorful garnish!
Ways to Enjoy Preserved Fruit
Here are several ways to incorporate preserved fruit into your diet:
-
As a Snack: Preserved fruits like dried mango, apricots, or cranberries can be eaten straight from the package as a quick and convenient snack. Remember moderation; dried fruit is often more concentrated in sugar than fresh fruit.
-
In Salads: Add a burst of sweetness and chewy texture to your salads. Craisins (dried cranberries) are a popular choice for spinach salads, but you can experiment with other dried fruits.
-
In Trail Mix: Combine preserved fruit with nuts, seeds, and other snacks to create a custom trail mix for hiking or on-the-go energy.
-
In Baked Goods: Incorporate preserved fruit into muffins, cookies, scones, breads, and other baked goods. They add moisture and a concentrated fruit flavor.
-
In Oatmeal or Yogurt: Top your morning oatmeal or yogurt with chopped preserved fruit for added sweetness and fiber.
-
As a Garnish: Use preserved fruit to garnish desserts, cheese plates, or even cocktails.
-
In Stuffing or Rice Dishes: For a savory-sweet twist, add chopped preserved fruit to stuffing for poultry or rice dishes.
Portion Control
It's important to be mindful of portion sizes when eating preserved fruit. A good guideline is to eat no more than half as much dried fruit as you would fresh fruit, as the sugars are more concentrated.
For example:
| Fruit | Fresh Serving Size | Preserved Serving Size (Approximate) |
|---|---|---|
| Grapes | 1 cup | 1/2 cup raisins |
| Apricots | 3-4 medium | 6-8 dried halves |
| Mango | 1 cup sliced | 1/2 cup dried strips |
| Cranberries | 1 cup | 1/2 cup craisins |
Conclusion
Preserved fruit is a versatile and delicious addition to many dishes and snacks. Enjoy it in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
