How to Choose the Dried Mixed Fruit
Dried Mixed Fruit: All You Need To Know
What Is Dried Mixed Fruit?
Dried Mixed Fruit is a delightful blend of almonds, cashews, walnuts, hazelnuts, and pistachios, along with sun-dried currants, prunes, sultanas, cherries, lemon peel, apricots, dates, figs, and candied orange. The assortment of dried fruits can vary depending on the specific needs and availability. This combination creates a visually appealing mix of dark and light dried fruits that enhance the color and flavor of desserts and baked goods. These dried fruits are offered in both whole and powdered forms.
Certain fruits, such as cranberries, strawberries, blueberries, and cherries, undergo a process where they are infused with a sweetener like sucrose syrup prior to drying, resulting in what we call sweetened dried fruits. These can also be found in either whole or powdered form.
Types Of Dried Mixed Fruit
There are various types of dried mixed fruit available, and the specific combination may vary depending on the brand or region. Here are some common types of dried mixed fruit:
- Trail mix: This typically includes a combination of dried fruits such as raisins, cranberries, apricots, cherries, and sometimes includes nuts and seeds.
- Tropical mix: This mix often contains dried fruits like pineapple, mango, papaya, coconut, and sometimes includes banana chips or other tropical fruits.
- Berry mix: This mix usually consists of dried berries such as cranberries, blueberries, strawberries, and sometimes includes cherries or other berry varieties.
- Mediterranean mix: This mix often includes dried fruits like figs, dates, apricots, raisins, and sometimes includes nuts like almonds or walnuts.
- Orchard mix: This mix typically contains a combination of dried fruits like apples, pears, peaches, plums, and sometimes includes raisins or other orchard fruits.
- Exotic mix: This mix may include a variety of unique dried fruits like goji berries, dragon fruit, kiwi, lychee, or other less common fruits.
Benefits Of Using Dried Mixed Fruit
There are several benefits to using dried mixed fruit in your diet. Here are some of the key advantages:
- Nutrient-rich: Dried mixed fruit contains a variety of essential nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. These nutrients are important for maintaining overall health and supporting various bodily functions.
- Convenience: Dried mixed fruit is a convenient snack option. It is lightweight, portable, and has a long shelf life, making it easy to carry and consume on the go. It can be enjoyed as a standalone snack or added to various recipes, such as trail mixes, granola bars, or baked goods.
- Natural sweetness: Dried mixed fruit offers a natural sweetness without the need for added sugars. This makes it a healthier alternative to processed snacks or desserts that often contain high amounts of added sugars.
- Fiber content: Dried mixed fruit is a good source of dietary fiber. Fiber is essential for maintaining a healthy digestive system, promoting regular bowel movements, and preventing constipation. It also helps to keep you feeling full and satisfied, which can aid in weight management.
- Energy boost: Dried mixed fruit is a concentrated source of carbohydrates, which are the body's primary source of energy. Consuming dried fruit can provide a quick energy boost, making it an ideal snack choice for athletes or individuals needing an energy pick-me-up.
- Long shelf life: Dried mixed fruit has a longer shelf life compared to fresh fruit, as the drying process removes moisture, which helps to prevent spoilage. This allows you to stock up on dried fruit and have a nutritious snack option available for an extended period.
- Year-round availability: Unlike fresh fruit, which may have limited availability depending on the season, dried mixed fruit is available year-round. This ensures that you can enjoy a variety of fruits regardless of the time of year.
How To Use Dried Mixed Fruit
Using dried mixed fruit is a great way to add flavor, texture, and nutrition to various dishes. Here are some suggestions on how to use dried mixed fruit:
- Snacking: Enjoy dried mixed fruit as a healthy snack on its own. It provides a concentrated source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber. You can also mix it with nuts or seeds for a delicious trail mix.
- Baking: Add dried mixed fruit to your baked goods for a burst of sweetness. They work well in cookies, muffins, bread, cakes, and granola bars. Soak the dried fruit in warm water or juice for a few minutes to rehydrate them before adding to the batter.
- Breakfast: Sprinkle dried mixed fruit over your morning cereal, oatmeal, or yogurt. It adds a natural sweetness and enhances the overall taste and texture of your breakfast.
- Salads: Toss dried mixed fruit into salads to create a unique flavor profile. They pair well with greens, nuts, cheese, and vinaigrette dressings. You can also add them to grain salads like quinoa or couscous for added sweetness.
- Trail mix: Create your own custom trail mix by combining dried mixed fruit with nuts, seeds, and even some dark chocolate or coconut flakes. It's a convenient and nutritious snack for hiking, traveling, or anytime you need a quick energy boost.
Tips for storing Dried Mixed Fruit
- Store Dried Mixed Fruit in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
- Dried Mixed Fruit can be stored tightly wrapped at room temperature for several months. Store in a cool, dry place like a cupboard.
- For prolonged storage (up to a year), they should be refrigerated in a tightly sealed plastic bag.
Tips to Buy Dried Mixed Fruit
- With Dried Mixed Fruit, you have to look closely at the ingredients on the package.
- Avoid nuts that have been artificially sweetened, salted, or fried.
- Also, do not buy dried fruits that have sugar listed as an ingredient.
- Dried fruits are naturally sweet and artificial sweeteners only add calories without any added nutrition.
- For fruits that tend to be bitter when dried such as cranberries, look for dried cranberries that have been sweetened with 100% natural fruit juice.
- In case you have a concern or query you can always consult an expert & get answers to your questions!