Knowing the right time to buy fresh cherries can make all the difference in taste and quality. These juicy delights are not available throughout the year, and getting them at their best means you'll enjoy sweeter, crisper berries. In this article, we'll explore when you should buy fresh cherries for the best possible experience and why timing is so important.
Fresh cherries are extremely popular, especially in New Zealand, where they're loved for their unique taste and vibrant colour. The changing seasons play a big role in determining when these cherries are at their absolute best. By understanding the cherry season, you can make more informed choices while shopping, ensuring that when you reach for cherries, they're nothing short of perfection.
Cherry Season in NZ
The cherry season in New Zealand is a special time of year. It typically kicks off in mid-November and can last through January. The sweetness of cherries reaches its peak during the months of December and January, when the berries are plump and full of flavour.
Knowing the timing of the cherry season is key to securing the freshest cherries. This window of opportunity means you can enjoy cherries at their best, either by visiting local markets or purchasing directly from farms. Planning ahead can help you take advantage of the peak months when cherries are most abundant and delicious.
To make the most of this season, consider these tips:
- Plan Visits: Make a note to visit local farmers' markets in December for the freshest selection.
- Ask Around: Engage with sellers and ask about their best dates for the season to ensure you get the top picks.
- Stock Up: Buy in bulk during peak times if you plan to preserve them for later enjoyment.
Whether enjoying them fresh or preserving them for off-season use, knowing when and where to find these cherries can make your experience as enjoyable as possible. Planning your cherry shopping around this timeline will save you from opting for lesser quality fruit when the season is over.
Best Places to Buy Fresh Cherries
Finding fresh cherries is like a treasure hunt, especially when you know where to look. In New Zealand, cherries are available from a variety of sources. Local farmers' markets are a fantastic place to start. Here, you can meet growers who are eager to share their latest harvest. Picking up cherries at these markets ensures you get them directly from the source, often just hours after they've been picked. The buzz and liveliness of these markets make for a fun and engaging experience, not to mention the chance to grab a sweet sample or two.
Specialty stores also present a great option. These shops often stock cherries that are in perfect condition, ready to be enjoyed right away. Shopping at these stores provides consistency in quality, as they rely on trusted suppliers and maintain optimal storage conditions.
Going directly to cherry orchards during the harvest season is another rewarding option. Many orchards allow you to pick your own cherries, giving you the opportunity to select the plumpest and juiciest ones yourself. This can be an enjoyable outing for families and cherry enthusiasts alike.
Tips for Selecting the Best Fresh Cherries
When selecting cherries, it's useful to know what characteristics to look for to ensure you're buying the best. Fresh cherries should be firm to the touch. Give them a gentle squeeze, and they should feel taut and juicy without any soft spots. The colour should be vibrant and even, with no blemishes or discolorations.
Pay close attention to the cherries' stems as well. A cherry with a green, flexible stem indicates that it's fresh. Conversely, a brown, brittle stem may suggest that the cherry is past its prime. Here's a quick checklist to help when browsing the aisles or sorting through a bin:
- Firmness: Cherries should be firm, not soft.
- Colour: Look for consistent, bright colour without spots.
- Stems: Check that they are green and flexible.
Avoid choosing cherries that have any wrinkling or bruising, as these often indicate overripeness. Using this simple guide can help you pick the very best cherries, ensuring a sweet and crisp experience.
Storing Your Fresh Cherries
Once you've selected the finest cherries, knowing how to store them properly will keep them fresh and delicious for as long as possible. Cherries are best stored in the refrigerator. Keep them unwashed until you're ready to eat them, as moisture can speed up decay. Placing them in an airtight container or sealed plastic bag will help maintain their freshness by protecting them from dry air in the fridge.
If you've bought cherries in bulk and want to save some for another time, consider freezing them. Wash and dry the cherries, then spread them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Once frozen, transfer them to a storage bag or container. This method ensures they don't stick together, making it easy to take out as many as you need at one time.
By carefully selecting and storing your cherries, you're setting yourself up to enjoy these juicy fruits long after the picking season has ended. Prepared with these steps, you'll always have delightful cherries on hand, ready to be savored in a variety of ways.
To fully enjoy the delightful taste of fresh cherries in NZ, explore the wide selection available online. At Pure Organic Cherries, you'll discover an array of options that suit every palate. Check out our offerings and indulge in the vibrant flavors and luscious textures our cherries bring to your table.