Dried cranberries
Description
Dried cranberries have an intense sweet-tart flavor with a distinct, slightly astringent note and a meaty, chewy texture; visually, they are shiny, dark red to burgundy, often slightly sweetened. From a nutritional standpoint, they provide fiber, antioxidants (flavonoids and proanthocyanidins), vitamins, and minerals in small amounts, are low in fat, but may contain added sugar, so it's worth paying attention to the label; when consumed in moderation, they support the health of the urinary and cardiovascular systems due to their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. In the kitchen, they pair well with salads, muesli, bread, cookies, poultry stuffing, and cheese boards, as well as sauces and compotes; they can be quickly softened by soaking in water, juice, or alcohol. Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry, and dark place, and after opening, it's best to keep them in the refrigerator to extend freshness and prevent clumping; use within a few months.