Fresh cranberry

Description

Fresh cranberries are small, shiny berries with a deep red color, a tough skin, and a distinctly sour-tart flavor with a hint of bitterness. They are firm and aromatic, providing a lively contrast in both appearance and taste to dishes. From a nutritional standpoint, they are low in calories but are a good source of fiber, vitamin C, as well as polyphenols and proanthocyanidins—antioxidants that support cardiovascular health and may positively influence the bacterial profile of the urinary tract. In the kitchen, fresh cranberries work well in sauces for meats, added to salads, desserts, casseroles, smoothies, and baked goods, as well as serving as a base for jams and chutneys that combine sweet and savory flavors. They should be stored in the refrigerator in a perforated container or an open bag, without washing them before storage, which extends freshness to about 1–2 weeks; they can also be quickly frozen on a tray and then kept in a sealed bag for several months.