December is a magical time of the year. There are so many wonderful foods to play with and prepare. I wanted to take this opportunity and let you know all things of the Stone fruit. Nectarines, cherries, mangoes, apricots, peaches and plums all fall under the name “stone fruits”. That’s because they contain large hard seeds. Stone fruits can be grilled, sautéed, poached, baked, broiled and glazed, adding depth and dimension to any of your holiday meals. These wonderful little gems are so delicious and very fragrant. They are full of nutrients to help boost the immune system. Here are a few of their health benefits:
- Creates collagen: the vitamin C in stone fruits might help increase collagen production. Collagen is a protein that gives the skin strength and elasticity
- Boost immune system: Oranges aren’t the only fruits good for Vitamin C. Incorporating stone fruits into your diet is another way you to boost your vitamin C intake and your immune system.
- Better bone health: Stone fruits also help promote healthier bones and teeth, preventing osteoporosis.
- Increase fiber: You’ll never skip your fiber again when you’re eating tasty stone fruits that are brimming with fiber. In addition to improved digestion, fiber helps with cholesterol and weight management.
- Vision protection: Your doctor has probably mentioned adding carotenoid antioxidants to your diet to maintain good vision. Vibrant-colored fruits like peaches and nectarines of the stonefruit are exactly what you need to help strengthen your eyesight.
- Nerve and muscle health: Bananas aren’t the only fruits rich in potassium! If you eat 2 small peaches, it will get you the same amount of potassium as half a banana. This helps you maintain healthy nerves and muscles and regulate blood pressure.
A LIST OF STONE FRUIT RECIPES TO ADD TO YOUR HOLIDAY MENU
Here is a series of holiday food and drink recipes I’ve put together that feature the stone fruit in an appetizer, an entree, and a few cocktails. This collection is sure to impress family and friends for Christmas dinner and all your other celebrations this December. These recipes are decadent and indulgent, but oh so easy to make.
PART 1: How To Make Slivovitz: Eastern Europe’s Favorite Plum Brandy
PART 2: How To Make Scallop Plum Ceviche: An Elegant No-Cook Peruvian Appetizer
PART 3: How To Make Seared Duck Breast with Cherries and Port Sauce
PART 4: How To Make Falala Las Margaritas de Cereza (Cherry Margaritas)
If you have any questions about any of these recipes, please feel free to ask me!
– Chef Dennis Hicks
