Dried Fruit - Most people are pretty familiar with raisins, prunes, and apricots. But figs, one of the more unusual fruits grown in California , remain somewhat of a mystery. There are two kinds of figs you can buy at the supermarket. Calimyrna figs are the larger ones and have larger seeds. They are amber colored and have a more nutlike flavor. Mission figs are almost black, have a more tender skin, and smaller seeds. The two kinds are almost identical nutritionally. * Nutritional Notes: Iron and fiber abound in most dried fruits. But figs are particularly high in fiber: Five dried figs have 16 grams that is over half the daily amount of fiber many health authorities recommend.
Fresh Fruit: All kinds of fresh fruits are used in California cooking. Fruit salads are very popular. So are sorbets, served with slices of fresh fruit alongside. But fruit doesn’t have to stand alone it can be combined with vegetables, seafood, greens, and meats to make nourishing and interesting dishes. * Nutritional Notes: Fruits in general are very nutrient dense. That means they deliver lots of vitamins and minerals with relatively few calories. Fruits are also one of the primary sources of fiber and vitamin A and C in our diet. They are especially high in soluble fibers like pectin, the kind that helps to lower blood cholesterol.
Shopping Tips: The juiciest citrus fruits have tight, shiny, thin skin.
But if you want citrus fruits that are easy to peel, look for a dull surface and bumpy, thick skin. Plums, peaches and apricots should be plump and slightly soft, free of bruises and shriveled skin. Pears are ripe when they yield slightly to pressure at the stem end.
Eat fruit that is in season, but also try some fruits that you have never tried before. What wonderful treats and just think a wonderful way to feed and repair your body.
