United Flavors of America – North Dakota’s Chokecherries

North Dakota’s Chokecherries

For centuries, Native Americans of the northern Great Plains relied on chokecherries as a dietary staple. Named because of its strong astringent properties, Native Americans used it to help prevent and treat everything from colds and sore throats to stomach conditions and bleeding. While the slightly bitter taste of this dark purplish red fruit might not appeal to all, the natural antioxidants help protect from coronary heart disease, stroke and some cancers. One cup also provides 31 g of fiber – 123% of the United States Recommended Daily Allowance – that helps lower cholesterol and blood sugar levels.

Try this delicious alternative to jam or as a marinade:

4 cups pitted chokecherries

½ cup agave nectar

1 package powdered pectin

Combine fruit, nectar and 2 cups water in a large pot. Bring to a boil. Simmer until thick. Add pectin and stir. Pour into glass container and refrigerate up to 2 weeks. Spread on toast, or use as a marinade or grilled meat sauce.

Sources

http://www.nrcs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/nrcs144p2_042452.pdf

http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-living/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/in-depth/fiber/art-20043983

http://skipthepie.org/ethnic-foods/chokecherries-raw-pitted-northern-plains-indians/

http://www.fruitsandveggiesmorematters.org/chokecherries-nutrition-selection-storage