Cranberries

You don't get more festive than cranberries. They are a main component for Thanksgiving but also a big part of the British Christmas table also. 

These berries are bursting with goodness, so much so that they are called a super food.

Cranberries grow on bushy vines mainly in the United States which has given them the name the American Cranberry. They are 1cm-3cm long and round. They start off green, changing to white and finally a deep ruby red once they are ripe. 

These small tart berries are packed full of Vitamin C, B, B6, E, riboflavin, niacin and antioxidants. 

Historically and presently they are used to help treat bladder and kidney problems 

There are so many ways to incorporate them into your diet year round but they are on our shelves fresh in the winter months. Cranberries are harvested in the months of September and October generally so now is the best time to get them. If you can't get them fresh you can also find them in stores dried or in a can however be sure to check the sugar content. 

The common misconception is that the cranberry juice you buy on the shelves is good for you. This is completely false as you will be drinking mostly sweeteners. The best way to know what you are buying is to always check the packaging. 

We are going to be showing you how to incorporate them into your diet over the next few weeks and you can use these recipes throughout the year, not just the festive season! 

Enjoy!