Raspberries are a fruit that grows on any shrub that belongs to the genus rubus, of the rose family. They are small, juicy, and vary in color from red, to pale yellow, to black. Raspberries have a hollow core and are therefore very delicate.
While raspberries are enjoyed all around the globe, the leading exporters are Russia, Serbia, and the United States. In the US, most raspberries are grown in the coastal states of California and Washingtonhttp://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=foodspice&dbid=39.
Raspberries are highly perishable, and should be eaten within a day or two of purchase. Before placing them in the refrigerator, be sure to remove any berries that have gone bad so that they do not contaminate the others. They also freeze very well, however it is recommended you remove them from the container and store them on a flat cookie sheet in the freezer before freezing themhttp://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=foodspice&dbid=39.
Health Benefits
Raspberries contain a great deal of antioxidants, and research shows that they may prevent the forming of cancer cells in various parts of the body, including the colon. They contain roughly 50% higher antioxidants than strawberries, 300% more than kiwis, and 1000% more than tomatoes. Additionally, freezing does not affect their antioxidant activity, though Vitamin C is affected by roughly 50%.
Raspberries History and Background
Wild Raspberries date all the way back to prehistoric times. Wild raspberries were first thought to have originated in eastern Asia, however new evidence shows there are other varieties that originate in parts of the western Hemisphere. One theory is that the seeds from one area were carried by travelers to the other area and planted therehttp://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=foodspice&dbid=39.
Cultivation of raspberries did not begin until much later. The first mention of cultivation was in an English book on herbal medicine which was written in 1548. In the 19th Century raspberries starting being grown widely across North America and Europe. During this time many varieties started appearing either by accident or intentional crossbreeding, including loganberries and boysenberrieshttp://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=foodspice&dbid=39.
Raspberry Lavender Lemonade Made Easy
In this video Renee Loux shows Michel Nischan how to make raspberry lavender lemonade. first Michel makes a tea from lavender flowers using a french press. Then she moves on to blending the basic ingredients of raspberries, lavender tea, lemon juice, agave nectar, maple syrup, sea salt, and water. Once mixed it's ready to drink.
