Dried fruits are one of the finest things that nature provides
for our nourishment and enjoyment. Normal fruits are dried and processed either
by the sun’s heat or by a special appliance known as a Dehydrator. One of the
most important things to remember while preparing dried fruit is to keep the color.
Ascorbic Acid can be used during the drying process for this. After washing the
fruit, you can slice it, or even blanch the fruit. Be sure to remove the pits
of fruits that have a pit.
Some Facts
about Dried Fruit
Dried fruit is an
excellent choice for snacks or at mealtime. They are rich in nutrients and are
also delicious. You can eat them every day. They are very high in fiber
content, potassium and iron and will benefit the digestive system. They are
good for people who are suffering from constipation or lower blood pressure.
Dried fruit can keep your stomach feeling full if you’re on a diet. This is a
much preferred snack alternative and can help you avoid cookies, candy bars and
potato chips.
One of the best things about dried fruit
is that they have almost the same nutritional value as fresh fruits. They are totally
similar in fact, only much sweeter. They are a great option as a healthy snack
alternative.
Origin of Dried
Fruits
Dried fruits have
been part of the Mediterranean diet for centuries. They were cultivated in the
region of the Middle East, which is known as the “Fertile Crescent “. The
earliest form of preservation for many foods was drying or dehydration. The
value of dried fruits was understood by the early hunter-gatherers. They could be
taken on long hunting journeys without spoiling.
Gradually, the idea spread from the Middle East to Europe in
countries like Greece and Italy. Dried fruit was commonly consumed in ancient
Rome. In modern times, it has become one of the best snack options for those in
a hurry or on a diet. Dried fruit can easily be placed in a lunch box or taken
on vacation for a healthy snack anytime, anywhere.
Conclusion
Dried fruits are one of nature’s wonders. They represent pure
nutrition given by nature itself. In today’s world, people are often too busy
to eat right and so they grab sodas, chips and cookies, which are actually very
low in nutrition and a major cause of high cholesterol and obesity. Dried
fruits should be included in your daily diet. They can help us stay fit and healthy.
They provide a healthy snack alternative that’s high in nutrition and fiber and
low in calories.
Robert Samuels is a proficient
author on food and beverage topics. In this article, he has discussed the
importance of dried fruits. He is a long-time contributor
for basketbox.com. He suggests his readers to visit Google+
page to avail further information on this matter.