Medlar fruit: Nutrition, culinary uses, and more
What's the story
Medlar, a lesser-known fruit, is making waves for its nutritional benefits. Native to parts of Europe and Asia, this small fruit has been a part of traditional diets for centuries. With its unique taste and texture, medlar is loaded with vitamins and minerals that promote health. Let's find out what makes medlar a must-have in your diet.
#1
Nutritional profile of medlar
Medlar is loaded with essential nutrients, including vitamin C, vitamin A, and dietary fiber. It also contains minerals such as potassium, calcium, and iron. These nutrients are important for boosting the immune system, enhancing vision, and promoting digestive health. The fiber content helps in regular bowel movements while vitamins C and A protect against oxidative stress.
#2
Health benefits of medlar
Eating medlar can do wonders for your health. Its high antioxidant content protects cells from damage from free radicals. The presence of dietary fiber ensures healthy digestion by preventing constipation and promoting gut health. Further, potassium present in medlar helps in regulating blood pressure by balancing sodium levels in the body.
#3
Culinary uses of medlar
Medlar's unique flavor makes it perfect for a variety of culinary applications. It can be eaten raw when fully ripe or cooked into jams, jellies, or desserts. Its tartness adds an interesting twist to sweet dishes while complementing savory recipes as well. Medlar can also be used as a topping on salads or added to smoothies for an extra nutritional boost.
Tip 1
Tips for selecting and storing medlar
When selecting medlars at the market or grocery store, look for ones that are slightly soft to touch but not overly mushy. This indicates they are ripe enough to eat but not spoiled yet. To store medlars properly at home, keep them in a cool place away from direct sunlight until they ripen fully before consuming them.