When we think of using fruits in dishes, our minds instantly go to using fresh produce. However, dried fruit can make dishes just as delicious.
Dried fruit is a versatile ingredient that adds a burst of flavour, texture, and natural sweetness to various dishes. From appetizers to main courses and desserts, cuisines around the world incorporate dried fruits in unique and delightful ways.
Here are 5 amazing dishes from around the world that use dried fruit:
Turkey – Ashure
Ashure, also known as Noah’s Pudding, is a traditional Turkish dessert that has a rich cultural and religious significance. It is a sweet and hearty pudding made from a combination of grains, pulses, dried fruits, nuts, and sweeteners.
The pudding is typically garnished with a variety of toppings such as pomegranate seeds. It is served chilled and enjoyed as a dessert or a sweet snack. The combination of different grains, pulses, fruits, and nuts gives Ashure a unique and wholesome taste and texture.
Algeria – Mesfouf
Mesfouf is a traditional North African dish, particularly popular in Algeria. It is a sweet couscous dish that is typically served as a dessert or breakfast item. It is made by steaming or boiling couscous grains and then sweetening them with various ingredients.
Once the couscous is cooked and sweetened, it is typically garnished with dried fruits such as raisins, chopped dates, or figs.
Austria – Apfelstrudel
Apfelstrudel, also known as apple strudel, is a traditional Austrian pastry that has become popular in many countries. It is a sweet, layered pastry filled with spiced apples, raisins, and sometimes nuts.
It is typically baked until golden brown and crispy. It is often served warm, either dusted with powdered sugar or accompanied by a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. The combination of the sweet and tart apple filling with the crisp pastry creates a delicious contrast of textures and flavours.
Pakistan – Peshwari naan
Peshwari naan is a type of naan bread that is popular in Pakistani cuisine. It is a variation of traditional naan, which is a leavened bread typically baked in a clay oven. It is known for its sweet and fruity flavour.
What sets Peshwari naan apart from regular naan is the filling. The dough is stuffed with a mixture of finely chopped or ground nuts, desiccated cocoon, sugar, and raisins or dried fruits.
Persia – Pilaf
Pilaf, also known as pilau or pulao, is a flavourful and aromatic rich dish that has origins in Persia and popular in many cuisines around the world. It is typically made by cooking rice in seasoned broth or stock, along with various ingredients such as vegetables, meat, seafood, and spices.
The rice grains in pilaf are usually cooked to be light, fluffy, and separate from each other. Pilaf also includes dried fruits, nuts, or raisins, which provide a pleasant sweetness and textural contrast.