Cherry of the Rio Grande Berries
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Description/Taste
Cherry of the Rio Grande berries are rounded fruits that measure about 2 to 5 centimeters long. They have a slightly oblong to ovate shape and a prominent light green calyx that sticks straight up. These fruits emerge with a pale pink to bright red skin and mature to a dark red or almost purple-black color. This thin skin is shiny and smooth. Cherry of the Rio Grande berries have a light orange-red flesh with a lush, juicy, and tender texture. Within this flesh are 1 to 2 white rounded seeds that measure about 0.6 centimeters wide. Cherry of the Rio Grande berries have a distinctly sweet flavor with notes of cherry, plum, and banana.
Seasons/Availability
Cherry of the Rio Grande berries are available from late spring to summer.
Current Facts
Cherry of the Rio Grande berries are botanically classified as Eugenia involucrata and are members of the Myrtaceae family that also includes rose apples, guavas, cloves, Surinam cherries, and eucalyptus. These berries are native to the southernmost Brazilian state of Rio Grande do Sul which borders Argentina and Uruguay. They are referred to by many names in Brazil including Cerejeira, Aracazeiro, Cerejeira do Mato, Cereja da Terra, and Cereja do Rio Grande. This variety is commonly planted as an ornamental tree that can grow about 2 to 4.5 meters tall, bloom attractive white flowers in the spring, and be used to make wooden tools or charcoal. These trees are also planted for their berries that are frequently incorporated into culinary preparations like jams and juice.
Nutritional Value
Cherry of the Rio Grande berries are rich in vitamins A and C, helping strengthen the immune system and protect cells from oxidative stress while also promoting healthy skin and vision. The B-complex vitamins present in these berries aid in energy production, improved brain function, and reduced inflammation. These fruits contain small amounts of iron, magnesium, and potassium. These nutrients are important for transporting oxygen in the blood, supporting muscle and nerve function, bolstering heart health, and maintaining balanced blood pressure.
Applications
Cherry of the Rio Grande berries can be enjoyed fresh, preserved, baked, stewed, or frozen. They are often eaten raw, added to fruit bowls and salads, or used as toppings for oatmeal, yogurt, cereal, acai bowls, waffles, and pancakes. These berries can also be blended into smoothies, juices, or cocktails. They are commonly preserved in jams and chutneys or transformed into salsas and fruit sauces. Cherry of the Rio Grande berries may also be used in desserts like cakes, pies, blintzes, puddings, cheesecakes, cobblers, and tarts. They pair well with chocolate, whipped cream, cream cheese, goat cheese, almonds, rhubarb, peaches, apples, strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, lettuce, kale, and pork chops. To prepare them for eating, remove the leafy calyx and seeds. For storage, keep Cherry of the Rio Grande berries in a breathable container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Ethnic/Cultural Info
Cherry of the Rio Grande berries have grown along the banks of the Rio Grande River and nourished the indigenous people of Brazil for centuries. These berries were celebrated during festivals marking the arrival of spring as they were thought to symbolize love, prosperity, and good fortune. One local legend recounts a village beset by a severe drought leading the inhabitants to pray for relief. A mysterious traveler then offered them seeds with instructions on planting and caring for them. Those seeds ended up growing into Cherry of the Rio Grande trees. The village was soon after blessed with rain and the cherries ripened to save them from famine. These cherries then became a powerful symbol of hope and renewal.
Geography/History
Cherry of the Rio Grande berries are native to the state of Rio Grande do Sul in Southern Brazil. This variety thrives in tropical climates while being drought-tolerant and capable of withstanding frost. Historically, these berries have been consumed for centuries, as they were commonly found growing along the Rio Grande river in Brazil. Their popularity grew as tourists and botanists traveling to the region enjoyed the berries and took their seeds to cultivate in other countries. Currently, Cherry of the Rio Grande berries are frequently sourced from markets in their native Brazil, as well as in Paraguay and Uruguay. Outside of South America, they are a rare fruit most likely to be found in parts of Eastern Australia, Southern California, and Florida.
