Lykkers, when we're out visiting family and friends during the festive seasons, we often bring a variety of delicious fruits.
One that frequently makes it to the shopping list is the sweet and tangy cherry – but here's the question: is a cherry just a bigger version of the small, familiar cherry? Well, it turns out the answer is a bit more complicated than that!
Cherries and Cherries: Different "Cousins"
While both cherries and cherries belong to the same family – the Rosaceae family, under the genus Prunus – they are actually different species. Think of it as how kiwis and their close relative, the Chinese gooseberry, are related but distinct. Cherries are typically smaller in size, whereas cherries, often referred to as "sweet cherries," are much larger. But size isn't the only thing that separates them.
Differences in Color
One major difference lies in their color. Cherries tend to have a lighter red skin, while cherries are known for their darker, deep red hues. This gives cherries a richer, more intense look, setting them apart from the more delicate appearance of traditional cherries.
Taste: Sweet vs. Tart
When it comes to taste, cherries are much sweeter than regular cherries, which often have a more tart or tangy flavor. This sweetness makes cherries a popular choice for snacking, while the tartness of regular cherries might make them better suited for pies or other baked goods. For those of us who enjoy a sweet bite, cherries hit the spot with their smooth, sugary taste.
Where Do They Come From?
Another key difference between cherries and cherries is where they come from. Cherries are often imported from countries like Chile, making them a luxury fruit during seasons when cherries are out of reach in the Northern Hemisphere. On the other hand, cherries are native to our home country, making them more readily available and often fresher because of shorter transportation distances.
Are Cherries Off-Season Fruit?
You might have heard that cherries are an off-season fruit, and some people worry about the health impacts of eating fruits out of season. However, that's not the case for cherries. Since cherries come from the Southern Hemisphere, their growing season is opposite to ours. They start to ripen around November, which is summer for places like Chile. So, when we buy cherries in winter, we're actually getting fruit that's fresh from the Southern Hemisphere's harvest season!
How to Pick the Best Cherries
Now that we know a little more about cherries and cherries, how do we choose the best ones? Dr. Li Jun, a researcher at Beijing Forestry University, suggests looking for cherries that are fresh, have smooth skin, and are firm to the touch. They should also have their stems attached, as this is a sign of freshness. When buying cherries, be sure to look for the “J” mark on the packaging. This label is used in the Southern Hemisphere to grade cherries, and the more "J"s, the larger the cherries will be.
Before enjoying cherries, it's recommended to soak them in a solution of light saltwater for 10 to 15 minutes to clean them thoroughly. After soaking, rinse them under running water, and you'll be ready to indulge!
Conclusion: Which Cherry to Choose?
So, Lykkers, when you're picking out cherries for a sweet snack or to share with loved ones, remember that while cherries and cherries may belong to the same family, they're distinct in many ways. Whether you prefer the sweetness of cherries or the tart bite of regular cherries, knowing how to pick and enjoy these fruits will make all the difference. Choose wisely, and treat yourself to the freshest, most delicious cherries around!
What do you think, Lykkers? Do you prefer cherries over cherries, or are you ready to try them both? Let us know in the comments, and we can all share our favorite ways to enjoy this fruity treat!
