Medlars are a typical fruit of the spring and summer season, tasty and rich in beneficial properties for the body. In this article we will discover everything there is to know about these fruits, from the most popular varieties to ideas for using them in the kitchen. Furthermore, we will provide you with information on how to purchase them online to ensure you always have this delicious fruit available.
Index:
1. The main varieties of medlars
2. The beneficial properties of medlars
3. How to choose and preserve medlars
4. Kitchen ideas: sweet and savory recipes with medlars
5. Medlars in alternative medicine
6. Medlars and sports: an ideal fruit for athletes
7. Medlars and vegetarian cuisine: a perfect match
8. Medlars in international cuisine
9. Products derived from medlars
1. The main varieties of medlars
Medlars are divided into two main varieties: the Chinese one with its large fruit with beautiful yellow pulp, and the smaller, rounder Japanese one with a light yellow colour. However, in Italy we go far beyond these two types and there are numerous varieties of medlars whose cultivation is concentrated mainly in Sicily . Among the best known and most famous are the Santa Rosalia, the Precoce di Palermo and the Monreale. Alongside these varieties, it is undoubtedly the Japanese medlar that has put down its roots in Southern Italy thanks to the particularly favorable climatic conditions.
2. The beneficial properties of medlars
The oriental origin of medlars also brings with it a widespread use of these fruits in alternative medicine thanks to their numerous beneficial properties for the body. Among the main ones there are certainly anti-inflammatory ones that involve every part of the plant (leaves, seeds and fruits). Corosolic and maslinic acids, which have a powerful anti-diabetic function , are extracted from the medlar leaves . The typically yellow color of medlars is synonymous with a high content of vitamins A and C , essential for skin care and for fighting the oxidative processes of free radicals. Obviously, even the diuretic properties should not be underestimated.
3. How to choose and preserve medlars
Medlars are very delicate and easily spoiled fruits. When choosing, pay particular attention to the appearance: the skin must be firm and never too soft, preferably with small dark spots , synonymous with quality and sweetness. To best preserve the medlars, place them in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for no more than a week. If you want to keep them for longer, you can freeze them whole or cut into pieces, or turn them into jams and preserves.
4. Kitchen ideas: sweet and savory recipes with medlars
Medlars are a very versatile fruit, lending themselves to the preparation of both savory and sweet recipes. Reduced to a sauce they are perfect, for example, to accompany meat or fish main courses. But also in salads with cheeses and vegetables they are ideal for a fresh and healthy meal. Here are some ideas to best enjoy your medlars :
Medlar jam : a preserve to prepare for the winter so you have a good supply for the desserts and tarts you decide to make in the colder months. Choose some nice ripe medlars and flavor your jam with a touch of cinnamon. You will get a truly special spicy result.
Medlar liqueur : the sweetness of medlars lends itself well to being enjoyed in the form of a liqueur as a fresh and digestive end to a meal. Choose fruits that will appear in full summer so that they are sweeter and juicier.
Medlar rolls : for a fresh appetizer or a healthy aperitif to be prepared quickly and with few ingredients, these rolls are the perfect idea. Extract the pulp from the medlars by removing the peel and use it as a vegetable filling (you can grill pepper slices, courgettes or aubergines). Complete everything by adding a spoonful of spreadable cheese to your rolls. Sear them in a non-stick pan for a few minutes and serve warm.
Medlar salad : fruit salads have always been the perfect idea for a summer lunch to take to the beach without sacrificing taste. Add pieces of medlar to a mixed salad, add chunks of primosale or feta and complete with cherry tomatoes and black olives.
Medlar sauce : choose some nice ripe medlars and blend them together with a drizzle of oil and a few spoonfuls of Greek yogurt . Season with salt and pepper and accompany this delicious sauce with a fish-based second course, such as carpaccio, shellfish or sea bass tartare.
5. Medlars in alternative medicine
Thanks to their anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic and diuretic properties, medlars are often used in alternative medicine. From the leaves of the medlar you can prepare decoctions and infusions useful for fighting inflammation and joint pain, while regular consumption of the fruit can help prevent and control diabetes and improve kidney function. Furthermore, medlars are rich in vitamins A and C, which have an important antioxidant action and contribute to the well-being of the skin and immune system.
6. Medlars and sports: an ideal fruit for athletes
Medlars are an ideal food for athletes thanks to their content of vitamins, minerals and natural sugars. Consuming medlar before or after physical activity can help improve energy and stamina, prevent cramps and muscle fatigue, and aid post-workout recovery. Furthermore, medlars are rich in potassium, a mineral essential for the correct functioning of the nervous and muscular systems.
7. Medlars and vegetarian cuisine: a perfect match
Medlars are also a highly appreciated ingredient in vegetarian and vegan cuisine, thanks to their versatility and their sweet and pleasant flavour. Their use in salads, appetizers and sauces can enrich and make dishes based on vegetables, cereals and legumes more interesting. Furthermore, medlars can be used to prepare sweets and desserts without the use of ingredients of animal origin, such as ice cream, sorbet and vegan cakes.
8. Medlars in international cuisine
Medlars are popular in many cuisines around the world, particularly Asian and Mediterranean ones. In China and Japan, for example, medlars are often used to prepare refreshing drinks and fruit-based desserts, while in Spain and some Middle Eastern countries, medlar jams and marmalades are very popular. Even in Italy, the regional culinary tradition involves the use of medlars in various preparations, such as in Sicilian tarts or Northern Italian mustards.
9. Products derived from medlars
In addition to the fresh fruit, various food and non-food products can be obtained from medlars. Among these, there are jams, marmalades, fruit juices, liqueurs and skin care products based on medlar extracts. These derived products can be used to enrich and personalize your kitchen, or as original and tasty gift ideas.
10. Buy Medlars online: how to buy quality medlars
If you want to ensure that you always have fresh, quality medlars available, you can buy medlars online through numerous specialized sites and shops such as Frutt'iti. Before purchasing, check the origin of the medlars, their quality and the storage and shipping conditions. Also, compare the prices and offers available to ensure you get the best value for your money. Finally, remember to consume the medlars within a few days of purchasing them or to store them properly to preserve their taste and nutritional properties.
In conclusion, medlars are a tasty and versatile fruit, ideal for enriching your diet and discovering new flavours. Don't hesitate to buy them online and to experiment with the numerous recipes and ideas that we have proposed in this article. Enjoy your meal!