Cherries, with their vibrant color and irresistible sweetness, are a quintessential symbol of summer. But enjoying these delicious fruits often involves a bit of preparation: pitting and storing. Whether you’ve picked a bounty from your own tree or found a deal at the local farmers market, knowing how to properly pit and store cherries is essential for maximizing their flavor and extending their shelf life. This comprehensive guide will walk you through various pitting methods, storage techniques, and tips to help you enjoy cherries long after the summer sun fades.
Mastering the Art of Pitting Cherries
The first step to enjoying a bowl of fresh cherry pie, a batch of homemade jam, or simply snacking on these juicy gems is removing the pit. While it might seem like a simple task, pitting cherries can be messy and time-consuming if you don’t have the right tools or techniques. Fortunately, there are several methods you can use, ranging from simple household items to specialized cherry pitters.
Choosing the Right Pitting Method
The best pitting method for you will depend on the quantity of cherries you need to pit, your desired level of efficiency, and the tools you have available. Here’s a breakdown of some popular options:
The Paperclip Method: A Simple Solution
This is a fantastic method for pitting small quantities of cherries, offering a quick and easy way to remove the pit with minimal equipment. It is especially handy if you are traveling or do not have access to specialized tools.
- Wash and dry your cherries thoroughly.
- Unbend a standard paperclip until you have a straight end with a small hook or curve.
- Locate the stem end of the cherry.
- Insert the paperclip into the stem hole and gently hook the pit.
- Twist the paperclip slightly and pull the pit out. The cherry should remain largely intact.
Using a Chopstick or Skewer: Precision Pitting
Similar to the paperclip method, using a chopstick or skewer offers a simple, low-tech approach to pitting cherries. It’s great for maintaining the cherry’s shape, which is ideal if you plan to use them for garnish or in desserts where appearance matters.
- Wash and dry the cherries.
- Hold the cherry firmly in one hand.
- Place the pointed end of the chopstick or skewer on the stem end of the cherry.
- Push the chopstick or skewer through the cherry until you feel the pit dislodge.
- Push the pit completely out the other side.
The Cherry Pitter: Efficiency and Speed
For those who regularly pit large quantities of cherries, a dedicated cherry pitter is an invaluable tool. These devices are designed to quickly and efficiently remove pits, saving you time and effort. There are various types of cherry pitters available, ranging from single-cherry pitters to multi-cherry pitters.
- Wash and dry the cherries.
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific cherry pitter model.
- Typically, you’ll load the cherries into a hopper or designated slots.
- Operate the pitter, which will use a plunger or similar mechanism to push the pit out of the cherry.
- Collect the pitted cherries and dispose of the pits.
The Chef’s Knife Method: A Versatile Approach
If you’re comfortable using a chef’s knife, this method can be surprisingly efficient, especially for larger cherries. It’s also a great way to halve or quarter cherries for use in salads or other dishes.
- Wash and dry the cherries.
- Place a cherry on a cutting board.
- Using a chef’s knife, carefully slice the cherry in half around the pit.
- Twist the two halves to separate them.
- Remove the pit with your fingers or the tip of the knife.
Tips for Efficient Pitting
- Soak cherries in cold water before pitting. This helps to firm up the fruit and makes the pitting process easier.
- Protect your work surface. Cherry juice can stain, so cover your countertop with parchment paper or a cutting board.
- Wear gloves. If you’re pitting a large quantity of cherries, consider wearing gloves to prevent your hands from becoming stained.
- Work in batches. Pit a small number of cherries at a time to prevent them from drying out.
- Don’t throw away the juice! Collect the juice that runs off during pitting and use it to make sauces, syrups, or cocktails.
Storing Cherries for Optimal Freshness
Once you’ve pitted your cherries (or decided to store them whole), proper storage is crucial to maintain their freshness, flavor, and texture. How you store your cherries will depend on how long you plan to keep them and how you intend to use them.
Short-Term Storage: Refrigerating Fresh Cherries
If you plan to use your cherries within a few days, the refrigerator is your best bet. Here’s how to store them properly:
- Do not wash before storing. Washing cherries before storing can promote mold growth. Only wash them right before you plan to use them.
- Store in a breathable container. Place the cherries in a container lined with paper towels. The paper towels will absorb excess moisture and help prevent spoilage. A container with holes or a loosely covered container will allow for better air circulation.
- Keep them cool. Store the cherries in the refrigerator’s crisper drawer, where the temperature is typically the coolest.
- Consume within a week. Fresh cherries stored in the refrigerator will typically last for up to a week. Check them regularly and discard any that are soft, mushy, or moldy.
Long-Term Storage: Freezing Cherries for Later Use
Freezing is an excellent option for preserving cherries for several months. Frozen cherries are perfect for use in smoothies, baked goods, jams, and sauces.
Freezing Whole Cherries
- Wash and dry the cherries thoroughly.
- Flash freeze. Spread the cherries in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze for 1-2 hours, or until solid. This prevents the cherries from clumping together during long-term storage.
- Transfer to freezer bags or containers. Once the cherries are frozen solid, transfer them to freezer-safe bags or containers.
- Label and date. Label the bags or containers with the date and contents.
- Store in the freezer. Frozen cherries will keep for 8-12 months.
Freezing Pitted Cherries
- Pit the cherries using your preferred method.
- Follow steps 2-5 from the freezing whole cherries method. Freezing pitted cherries allows for quicker and easier use when you’re ready to enjoy them.
Other Storage Methods: Drying and Canning
While freezing is a popular option, drying and canning are other viable methods for long-term cherry storage, each offering unique benefits and results.
Drying Cherries
Drying cherries concentrates their flavor and creates a chewy, shelf-stable snack. You can dry cherries using a dehydrator, oven, or even the sun (although this method is more time-consuming and requires specific weather conditions).
- Wash and pit the cherries.
- Pre-treat (optional). To prevent discoloration, you can blanch the cherries in boiling water for 1 minute, then plunge them into ice water. Alternatively, you can soak them in lemon juice for a few minutes.
- Arrange on trays. Arrange the cherries in a single layer on dehydrator trays or baking sheets.
- Dry. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your dehydrator or set your oven to the lowest possible temperature (ideally below 200°F). Dry the cherries for 6-24 hours, or until they are leathery and no longer sticky.
- Cool and store. Allow the dried cherries to cool completely before storing them in airtight containers. They will keep for several months.
Canning Cherries
Canning is a method of preserving food by sealing it in jars and heating it to destroy microorganisms that cause spoilage. Canned cherries can be stored at room temperature for extended periods.
- Prepare jars and lids. Sterilize canning jars and lids according to manufacturer instructions.
- Wash and pit the cherries.
- Pack the jars. Pack the cherries into the jars, leaving headspace (the space between the top of the cherries and the lid).
- Add syrup or juice. Pour a hot syrup or juice (such as cherry juice or apple juice) over the cherries, leaving the specified headspace.
- Remove air bubbles. Use a non-metallic spatula or bubble popper to remove any air bubbles from the jars.
- Wipe rims and adjust lids. Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean, damp cloth. Place the lids on the jars and tighten the bands finger-tight.
- Process in a water bath canner. Process the jars in a boiling water bath canner for the recommended time, based on your altitude and the size of the jars.
- Cool and check seals. Remove the jars from the canner and let them cool completely. Check the seals by pressing down on the center of the lid. If the lid doesn’t flex, the jar is properly sealed.
Tips for Storing Cherries Successfully
- Choose ripe, unblemished cherries. Select cherries that are firm, plump, and free from bruises or blemishes for the best storage results.
- Handle cherries gently. Cherries are delicate and can bruise easily. Handle them with care during pitting and storage.
- Store in airtight containers. Airtight containers prevent cherries from drying out and absorbing odors from the refrigerator or freezer.
- Maintain consistent temperatures. Avoid fluctuating temperatures during storage, as this can affect the quality and shelf life of the cherries.
- Use frozen cherries directly from the freezer. Frozen cherries are best used directly from the freezer, as they can become mushy if thawed completely.
By following these pitting and storage techniques, you can savor the delicious flavor of cherries throughout the year, adding a touch of summer sweetness to your favorite recipes. Enjoy the bounty!
Why is it important to pit cherries before storing them?
Pitting cherries before storing them is crucial for several reasons. First, unpitted cherries tend to spoil more quickly, as the pit can harbor bacteria and enzymes that accelerate decomposition. Removing the pit allows for better air circulation around the fruit, reducing moisture and preventing mold growth.
Second, pitted cherries are significantly easier to use in recipes and for snacking. Whether you’re making a pie, jam, or simply enjoying them fresh, having the pits already removed saves time and effort. Furthermore, pitting before freezing or drying ensures that the cherry flavor is concentrated and not affected by the pit during the preservation process.
What are the different methods for pitting cherries?
There are several methods for pitting cherries, ranging from simple household items to specialized tools. A common technique involves using a paperclip or bobby pin to push the pit out from the stem end. A paring knife can also be carefully used to cut around the pit and remove it.
For larger quantities, a cherry pitter is a worthwhile investment. These tools come in various designs, from single-cherry pitters to multi-cherry pitters that can process several cherries at once. The best method depends on the volume of cherries you need to pit and your personal preference for speed and efficiency.
What is the best way to store fresh, pitted cherries in the refrigerator?
The best way to store fresh, pitted cherries in the refrigerator is to place them in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. Before storing, gently pat the cherries dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture, which can contribute to spoilage. This will help maintain their freshness and prevent them from becoming mushy.
Ensure the container or bag is properly sealed to prevent the cherries from absorbing odors from other foods in the refrigerator. Stored properly, pitted cherries can last for up to a week in the refrigerator. Check them regularly and discard any that show signs of spoilage.
Can you freeze pitted cherries, and if so, how?
Yes, freezing pitted cherries is an excellent way to preserve their flavor and enjoy them year-round. To freeze, spread the pitted cherries in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This prevents them from clumping together during the freezing process.
Once the cherries are frozen solid (usually after a few hours), transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Label the bag or container with the date and contents. Frozen pitted cherries can last for up to 12 months in the freezer.
How should I dry pitted cherries?
Drying pitted cherries can be done using several methods, including a dehydrator, oven, or even the sun. A dehydrator is the most efficient method, allowing for precise temperature and airflow control. Spread the pitted cherries in a single layer on the dehydrator trays and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for drying fruits.
If using an oven, set it to the lowest possible temperature (around 170°F or 77°C) and spread the cherries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Prop the oven door slightly open to allow moisture to escape. Drying time will vary depending on the method, but generally takes several hours. Sun-drying requires warm, dry weather and can take several days.
What are some creative ways to use stored pitted cherries?
Stored pitted cherries are incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of culinary applications. They are a fantastic addition to baked goods such as pies, muffins, and scones. You can also use them to make homemade cherry jam, sauce, or compote.
Beyond baking, pitted cherries can be incorporated into savory dishes. Try adding them to salads, using them as a topping for grilled meats, or blending them into a flavorful vinaigrette. They can also be enjoyed as a healthy and delicious snack straight from the freezer.
How do I prevent discoloration when storing pitted cherries?
Preventing discoloration, or browning, in pitted cherries is best achieved by minimizing their exposure to air. After pitting, toss the cherries with a small amount of lemon juice or ascorbic acid (vitamin C powder). These natural antioxidants help to inhibit enzymatic browning.
When freezing, ensure the cherries are completely cooled before packaging to prevent condensation from forming. For refrigerated storage, using airtight containers is crucial. If using resealable bags, remove as much air as possible before sealing. Proper storage techniques can significantly reduce discoloration and maintain the vibrant color of your pitted cherries.