Cherry
Where to find?
Alfândega da Fé, Mogadouro, Macedo de Cavaleiros
Cherries are one of the most popular fruits in Trás-os-Montes, standing out for their quality and flavor. Here is a detailed description:
Cherry Species in Trás-os-Montes
The cherries from Trás-os-Montes belong to the species *Prunus avium* and include varieties such as:
Bigarreau Burlat: One of the earliest, with large, red fruits and firm flesh.
Van: Known for its sweetness and crunchy texture, ideal for fresh consumption.
Summit: It has large, dark red fruits with a balanced flavor.
Rainier: A bicolor variety, with yellow and pink hues, and a sweet flavor.
Seasons and Regions
The cherry harvest in Trás-os-Montes takes place between May and July, depending on the variety. The main producing regions include Alfândega da Fé, Mogadouro and Macedo de Cavaleiros, which benefit from ideal climatic conditions such as cold winters and mild springs.
Use with Olive Oil
The combination of cherry and olive oil, two emblematic products of the region, results in unique and creative dishes. Some suggestions include: Fresh salads: Fresh cherries combined with olive oil, goat cheese and walnuts create a sophisticated starter.
Meat sauces: Cherry reduction with olive oil and Port wine, ideal to accompany grilled meats.
Desserts: Cherries sautéed in olive oil with a touch of honey, served with ice cream or yogurt.
Recipes:
Here are some additional recipes that combine cherries and olive oil, celebrating the unique flavors of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro:
1. Cherry Reduction with Olive Oil
Ingredients: Fresh cherries, olive oil, port wine, honey.
Preparation method: Cook the cherries with Port wine and honey until you obtain a thick reduction. Finish with a drizzle of olive oil. Ideal to accompany grilled meats or cheeses.
2. Cherry and Olive Oil Salad
Ingredients: Pitted cherries, arugula, feta cheese, walnuts, olive oil, balsamic vinegar.
Preparation method: Mix all the ingredients and drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. A fresh and sophisticated starter.
3. Sautéed Cherries with Olive Oil and Herbs
Ingredients: Fresh cherries, olive oil, thyme, rosemary, salt.
Preparation method: Sauté the cherries in olive oil with fresh herbs. Serve as a side dish for meat dishes or as a topping for bread.
4. Cherry Pie with Olive Oil
Ingredients: Shortcrust pastry, fresh cherries, olive oil, brown sugar, cinnamon.
Preparation: Arrange the cherries on the dough, drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with sugar and cinnamon, and bake until golden.
5. Cherry Ice Cream with Olive Oil
Ingredients: Fresh cherries, natural yogurt, honey, olive oil.
Preparation method: Blend the cherries with yogurt and honey. Serve with a drizzle of olive oil on top for a special touch.
These recipes show how the sweetness of cherries and the richness of olive oil complement each other, creating unique and delicious dishes.😊
