delicious, rich red, sweet, however mildly acidic strawberries are some of the most popular berries. These berries are native to Europe, however, today is grown in many temperate regions around the world as an important cash crop. Botanically, the plant is a corridor of low growth (vine) belonging to the family Rosaceae, in genus: Fragaria.
Scientific name: Fragaria X ananassa.
Strawberry is a small, low-lying spreading shrub. It bears small white flowers that eventually become small conical, light green, unripe fruits. They turn red at maturity up with each berry red pulp with small seeds with yellow, piercing through the surface from inside. Its upper end wears a cap of green leaves and stalk decorates his crown.
Each berry has a conical shape, weighs about 25 grams and measures about 3 cm in diameter. The berries have a flavor that varies by crop type, ranging from quite sweet acid.
Although wild varieties are sometimes available in the market, large-scale production uses modern system "plasticultura". In this method, raised beds are formed each year, fumigated, and covered with a plastic that prevents weed growth and spoil the crop.
Selection and storage
Strawberries can be available throughout the year in stores, but are fresh and abundant from spring to mid-summer.
In the shops, choose dark red berries that have green tops attached, plump, bright, free of sand and mold. Prevent appearing dull, sunken or flattened and those with signs of mold, cuts or discolored spots on the surface. unripe berries are green or yellow spots on its surface. Since the cease ripening berries soon after harvest, unripe berries should be avoided as it is likely to be sour and of inferior quality. And soon they lost and, therefore, should be bought only a few days before use.
Before storing in the refrigerator, to resolve any damaged and affected by the mold, so that should not damage healthy ones. Place them in a wide or spread on a plate covered with a paper towel bowl. Inside the fridge are kept cool for a day or two. Using them as soon as possible. For prolonged storage, place them in the freezer.
Preparation and serving tips
To wash strawberries, dip them in cold water in a large bowl for a few seconds and gently swish several times. This helps to remove any sand and debris insecticide / fungicide. Then gently pat dry with a paper towel or cloth. This method also helps berries bring back normal room temperature and enriches its flavor and taste. The stems and caps simply snipers with your fingers or with a kitchen knife.
Here are some tips that serve:
Fresh sliced strawberries can be a great addition to fruit or green salad.
They can be a great snack between meals. dry sliced strawberries can be added to muffins, cake, pastries and cereal flakes used as a breakfast food.
The berries are a popular addition to dairy products; and strawberry flavored ice cream, milkshakes, smoothies and yogurts.
safety profile
Strawberries can cause severe allergic reactions in some sensitive people. Some of the most common symptoms of allergy Strawberry include swelling and redness of the mouth, lips and tongue, eczema, hives, skin rash, headache, runny nose, itchy eyes , wheezing, gastrointestinal disorders, depression, hyperactivity and insomnia. People who suspect that allergy to these fruits may want to avoid them. (Exemption medical liability).