Spring is dressed in red
Rhubarb, strawberry, redcurrant, cherry, Alsace is full of fresh fruits that we love
In Alsace, red fruits have a special place in the kitchen. They add flavor and color to many dishes and desserts. Strawberries, raspberries, cherries and red currants are abundant in good weather. Often used in desserts such as pies, compotes and sorbets, red fruits are also found in savoury dishes such as salads and meat sauces.
We love the popular red fruit tart of Alsatian pastry chefs, often enhanced with whipped cream. But also, the unchanging red fruit jam, a local specialty, which can be enjoyed as a sweet topping for breakfast, dessert or snack.
Good for your health
Red fruits are rich in antioxidants, which help protect against cell damage and inflammation in the body. Their bright red color is due to the presence of anthocyanins, a type of antioxidant that has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties. In fact, some research has suggested that regular consumption of berries may help reduce the risk of heart disease, improve cognitive function and even improve athletic performance. One study found, for example, that drinking a strawberry-based drink daily for 12 weeks improved markers of cognitive function in older adults.
Did you know?
Alsace is known for its delicious strawberries, especially the “Mara des Bois” variety. After World War II, local farmers began growing strawberries to diversify their crops and increase their income. The climate of the region was found to be ideal for their cultivation, and new varieties well adapted were developed.
Strawberries therefore played an important role in the economic recovery of the region after the war and Alsace became one of the main strawberry producing regions in France.
