1 Cup, With Pits, Yields Sweet Cherries (Drained, Heavy Syrup, Canned) 153 calories. If you're a cherry lover, you'll love this article on how to get the most out of your canned cherries. Canned cherries have a long shelf life and are easily accessible at any grocery store. Keep reading to learn more about their nutritional information and how to use them in delicious recipes.
Sweet cherries are not only delicious, but also packed full of nutrients. One cup of canned sweet cherries contains 154% of your daily value of vitamin A and 12% of your daily value of vitamin C. They are also a great source of dietary fiber.
In this article, we'll explore everything you need to know about canned sweet cherries. From their nutritional benefits to their various uses, we've got you covered.
Canned sweet cherries contain a variety of nutrients that are beneficial to your health. They are low in calories and high in vitamins and minerals. One cup of canned sweet cherries contains the following:
- Calories: 153
- Total Fat: 0.3g
- Saturated Fat: 0.1g
- Sodium: 16mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 38.2g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Total Sugars: 31.5g
- Protein: 1.7g
- Vitamin A: 154% of Daily Value
- Vitamin C: 12% of Daily Value
- Calcium: 3% of Daily Value
- Iron: 4% of Daily Value
Benefits of Sweet Cherries
Sweet cherries are loaded with nutritional value and benefits that can help promote overall health. Here are some of the reasons why you should incorporate sweet cherries into your diet:
- High in antioxidants, which can improve heart health
- Contain anti-inflammatory properties
- May reduce symptoms of gout and arthritis
- May help regulate sleeping patterns
- May help with weight management due to their low calorie content
The Dangers of Heavy Syrup
Canned sweet cherries are typically sold in two different types of syrup: heavy syrup and light syrup. While heavy syrup may sound more luxurious, it can actually be quite harmful to your health. Heavy syrup is essentially sugar and water, and can add unnecessary calories and sugar to your diet. If you're concerned about your sugar intake, it's best to opt for canned cherries in light syrup or packed in water. If you do choose to use canned cherries in heavy syrup, be sure to drain them well before consuming.
How to Drain Sweet Cherries
Draining your canned cherries is a simple process that can help remove excess syrup and sugar. Here's how to do it:
- Place a colander over a bowl
- Open the can of cherries and pour the contents into the colander
- Allow the cherries to drain for a few minutes
- Discard the excess syrup in the bowl and use the cherries as desired
Delicious Recipes with Sweet Cherries
Canned sweet cherries are a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of sweet and savory dishes. Here are a few recipe ideas to get you started:
- Sweet cherry pie
- Cherry crumble
- Cherry clafoutis
- Cherry salsa
- Cherry glazed pork chops
Variations of Canned Sweet Cherries
In addition to canned sweet cherries in heavy syrup or light syrup, there are a few other variations that you may come across:
- Candied cherries
- Maraschino cherries
- Frozen cherries
- Dried cherries
Alternative Ways to Preserve Sweet Cherries
If you prefer to use fresh sweet cherries, there are a few different ways to preserve them for later use:
- Freeze them
- Can them yourself
- Dehydrate them
- Make jam or jelly
How to Choose the Best Canned Sweet Cherries
When choosing canned sweet cherries, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- Read the label to ensure there are no added preservatives or artificial flavors
- Check the expiration date to ensure freshness
- Look for cans that are not dented or damaged
- Opt for cherries in light syrup or packed in water to avoid excess sugar
Disadvantages of Eating Canned Sweet Cherries
While canned sweet cherries are a convenient option, there are a few potential disadvantages to keep in mind:
- May contain added sugar and preservatives
- Less flavorful than fresh cherries
- May contain fewer nutrients due to the canning process
- May contain pits or stem remnants
Sweet Cherries vs. Sour Cherries
While we've been discussing sweet cherries, it's important to note that there is also a variety of sour cherries. Here are a few differences between the two:
- Sweet cherries are typically eaten raw, while sour cherries are often used in cooking and baking
- Sweet cherries have a higher sugar content, while sour cherries have a more tart flavor
- Sour cherries are higher in vitamin C than sweet cherries
- Sweet cherries are typically larger and juicier than sour cherries
Sweet cherries are a nutritious and delicious ingredient that can be used in a variety of recipes. Whether you choose to use canned cherries or preserve fresh cherries, their flavor and nutritional benefits are sure to make for a tasty addition to any dish.
FAQs About Canned Sweet Cherries
1. How many calories are in a cup of canned sweet cherries?
One cup of canned sweet cherries with pits, drained and in heavy syrup, contains 153 calories.
2. What are the health benefits of sweet cherries?
Sweet cherries are a good source of fiber, vitamin C and potassium. They also contain antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
3. Can canned sweet cherries be used in recipes?
Yes, canned sweet cherries can be used in a variety of recipes, including pies, cakes, and sauces.
4. Are canned sweet cherries as nutritious as fresh ones?
Fresh sweet cherries are generally considered healthier than canned ones because they contain more nutrients and fewer additives. However, canned sweet cherries can still be a good source of certain vitamins and minerals.
5. How should canned sweet cherries be stored?
Canned sweet cherries should be stored in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. Once opened, they should be refrigerated and consumed within a few days.