As the summer season approaches, many of us are eager to incorporate fresh flavors into our cooking repertoire. One often-overlooked ingredient that’s perfect for warm-weather dishes is the humble ground cherry. These small, round fruits have a unique flavor profile that’s both sweet and slightly tart, making them an excellent addition to a wide range of recipes.
From classic desserts like pies and cobblers to savory applications like salsas and BBQ sauces, ground cherries are incredibly versatile. And with their season running from mid-summer to early fall, there’s no better time to get creative in the kitchen.
In this article, we’ll explore 20 delicious ground cherry recipes that cater to both sweet-tooths and those who prefer a little savory flair. Whether you’re looking for a unique dessert or a tasty way to add some excitement to your meals, these recipes are sure to inspire.
Ground Cherry Jam with Vanilla Bean
This unique jam combines the natural sweetness of ground cherries with the subtle flavor of vanilla bean, creating a perfect balance of sweet and tangy. Perfect for topping toast, yogurt, or using as a filling for cakes and pastries.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups ground cherries, fresh or frozen
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/2 vanilla bean, split lengthwise
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Rinse the ground cherries and remove any stems or leaves.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the ground cherries, sugar, water, and vanilla bean.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the jam has thickened and passed the “wrinkle test”.
4. Remove the vanilla bean and stir in the lemon juice.
5. Let the jam cool slightly before transferring it to an airtight container.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ground Cherry and Peach Cobbler
Savor the sweet flavors of summer with this unique cobbler recipe, featuring ground cherries and peaches.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh ground cherries, hulled and chopped
– 2 cups sliced peaches
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon milk
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground cherries, peaches, sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Mix until well combined.
3. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together melted butter, beaten egg, milk, and vanilla extract.
5. Pour the wet ingredients over the fruit mixture.
6. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the fruit is tender.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Enjoy your delicious Ground Cherry and Peach Cobbler!
Ground Cherry Salsa with Jalapeños
A sweet and spicy twist on traditional salsa, this recipe combines the natural sweetness of ground cherries with the bold heat of jalapeños. Perfect for topping tacos, grilled meats, or veggies!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup ground cherries, rinsed and drained
– 2 jalapeños, seeded and finely chopped
– 1/2 cup red onion, diced
– 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine ground cherries, jalapeños, red onion, and cilantro.
2. Blend until smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
3. Stir in lime juice and season with salt to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cook Time: None! This salsa is ready to use straight away.
Ground Cherry Pie with Flaky Crust
Ground Cherry Pie with Flaky Crust Recipe
A classic dessert featuring the sweet and tangy flavors of ground cherries, topped with a flaky crust that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups ground cherries (fresh or frozen), rinsed and drained
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon white vinegar
– Flaky crust dough (see below)
Flaky Crust Dough:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground cherries, sugar, flour, and salt. Stir until well combined.
3. Add melted butter, beaten egg, and white vinegar. Mix until smooth.
4. Roll out flaky crust dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8-inch thickness.
5. Spoon the cherry filling onto one half of the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
6. Fold other half over filling and press edges together to seal.
7. Cut a few slits in top for steam escape.
8. Bake for 40-50 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Ground Cherry Chutney with Ginger
This sweet and tangy chutney is a perfect accompaniment to grilled meats, naan bread, or as a dip for snacks. The ground cherries add natural sweetness while the ginger adds a warm, spicy flavor.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups ground cherries
– 1 cup sugar
– 1/4 cup grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Rinse the ground cherries and remove any stems or leaves.
2. In a large saucepan, combine the ground cherries, sugar, ginger, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, and salt.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Remove from heat and let cool completely before transferring to an airtight container.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ground Cherry and Goat Cheese Salad
This refreshing salad combines the sweetness of ground cherries with the tanginess of goat cheese, perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup ground cherries, rinsed and stemmed
– 8 oz goat cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine ground cherries, goat cheese, and parsley.
2. Drizzle olive oil over the mixture and toss to coat.
3. Squeeze balsamic vinegar over the salad and toss again to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in just a few minutes.
Ground Cherry Muffins with Cinnamon Streusel
These moist and flavorful muffins are filled with the sweetness of ground cherries, balanced by a crunchy cinnamon streusel topping.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup ground cherries, rinsed and chopped
– 2 large eggs
– Cinnamon streusel topping (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine melted butter, ground cherries, and eggs. Stir until smooth.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; stir until just combined (do not overmix).
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
6. Top each muffin with a spoonful of cinnamon streusel topping.
Cinnamon Streusel Topping:
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Mix dry ingredients; add melted butter. Spoon topping over muffins.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Ground Cherry Clafoutis with Almond Flour
This French-inspired dessert is a perfect showcase for the sweet and tangy flavors of ground cherries. This gluten-free version uses almond flour to create a delicate and crumbly crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup ground cherries, fresh or frozen
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup almond flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together sugar, almond flour, and salt.
3. Add ground cherries, heavy cream, eggs, and melted butter; stir until combined.
4. Pour mixture into a 9-inch baking dish or ceramic tart pan with removable bottom.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
6. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Ground Cherry and Bacon Flatbread
A sweet and savory twist on traditional flatbread, this recipe combines the tanginess of ground cherries with the smokiness of bacon.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon sugar
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1/2 cup ground cherries (fresh or frozen)
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and sugar.
2. Gradually add warm water and mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5 minutes, then cover and let rest for 10 minutes.
4. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
5. Roll out the dough into a thin circle.
6. Brush with olive oil and sprinkle with crumbled bacon and ground cherries.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
8. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Ground Cherry Compote over Ice Cream
A sweet and tangy compote made with ground cherries, perfect to spoon over your favorite ice cream.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup ground cherries (or 2 cups of cherry jam/preserves)
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine ground cherries (or cherry jam/preserves), sugar, and cornstarch.
2. Gradually whisk in the water until well combined.
3. Add lemon juice and salt to taste.
4. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and reaches your desired consistency (about 10-12 minutes).
5. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Serve: Spoon the compote over your favorite ice cream and enjoy!
Ground Cherry and Chocolate Tart
This sweet and tangy tart combines the natural sweetness of ground cherries with the richness of dark chocolate, perfect for a unique dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen ground cherries
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together sugar, flour, and salt.
3. Add ground cherries and toss until they are evenly coated with the dry mixture.
4. Roll out puff pastry to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
5. Arrange the cherry mixture on one half of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border.
6. Melt chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
7. Drizzle melted chocolate over the cherries and brush edges of pastry with beaten egg.
8. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling and press edges to seal.
9. Brush top with heavy cream and bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Ground Cherry BBQ Sauce for Ribs
Sweet and tangy Ground Cherry BBQ Sauce for Ribs Recipe
Ground cherries add a unique flavor dimension to this classic BBQ sauce, perfect for slathering on ribs or using as a dipping sauce. With its sweet and slightly tart taste, this sauce is sure to elevate your outdoor cooking game.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup ground cherries
– 1/2 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, puree the ground cherries until smooth.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-low heat.
4. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.
5. Stir in the pureed ground cherries and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Use this BBQ sauce on ribs, chicken, or pork chops for a tangy and sweet twist on traditional BBQ flavors.
Ground Cherry Smoothie with Greek Yogurt
Brighten up your day with this refreshing and healthy smoothie, packed with the sweet-tart flavor of ground cherries and the creaminess of Greek yogurt.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen ground cherries
– 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Ice cubes (as needed)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine ground cherries, Greek yogurt, honey, and vanilla extract.
2. Blend the mixture until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Add ice cubes if you prefer a thicker consistency, then blend until the ice is crushed and the smoothie is the desired texture.
4. Pour into a glass and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes (blending time)
Ground Cherry and Pecan Granola Bars
These chewy bars combine the sweetness of ground cherries with the crunch of pecans, making for a perfect snack or breakfast on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup ground cherries, fresh or frozen
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine oats, ground cherries, brown sugar, and honey. Mix until well combined.
3. Stir in chopped pecans and salt.
4. Press the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly golden.
6. Remove from oven and let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ground Cherry Stuffed French Toast
Elevate your breakfast game with this sweet and tangy treat! Ground cherries add a delightful burst of flavor to the classic French toast.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bread (preferably Challah or Brioche)
– 1/2 cup ground cherries, pitted
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, and vanilla extract.
2. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
3. Dip each bread slice into the egg mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Place the coated bread slices on the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
5. Stuff each French toast slice with about 1 tablespoon of ground cherries.
6. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes
Enjoy your delicious Ground Cherry Stuffed French Toast!
Ground Cherry and Brie Grilled Cheese
Elevate your grilled cheese game with the sweet and savory combination of ground cherries and creamy brie.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– 1/4 cup ground cherries, rinsed and drained
– 1/4 cup brie cheese, softened
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place one bread slice, buttered side down, in the skillet.
4. Top with ground cherries, followed by brie cheese.
5. Place the second bread slice, buttered side up, on top of the filling.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
7. Flip the sandwich over and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the other side is also golden brown.
Cooking Time: 5-6 minutes
Ground Cherry Pancakes with Maple Syrup
Start your day off right with these sweet and tangy ground cherry pancakes, topped with a drizzle of pure maple syrup.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup ground cherries (fresh or frozen)
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup milk
– Maple syrup, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together eggs, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add ground cherries and milk; stir until combined.
4. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the preheated skillet or griddle.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry.
6. Flip pancakes and cook an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
7. Serve warm with a drizzle of maple syrup.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Ground Cherry and Basil Bruschetta
A sweet and savory twist on the classic bruschetta, this recipe combines the natural sweetness of ground cherries with the brightness of fresh basil.
Ingredients:
– 1 pint ground cherries (also known as husk tomatoes)
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, and salt.
3. Brush the mixture onto both sides of the baguette slices.
4. Place the slices on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until lightly toasted.
5. Meanwhile, rinse the ground cherries and remove any stems or leaves.
6. Chop the ground cherries into small pieces and stir in chopped basil.
7. To assemble the bruschetta, place a toasted baguette slice on a plate, top with a spoonful of ground cherry mixture, and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese (if using).
8. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Ground Cherry Lemonade with Mint
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of ground cherries with the brightness of lemon and the coolness of mint, creating a refreshing summer drink.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen ground cherries
– 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cups sugar
– 4 cups water
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine ground cherries and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
2. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a large bowl, pressing on solids to extract juice. Discard solids.
3. Add lemon juice and sugar to the juice. Stir until sugar is dissolved.
4. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
5. Just before serving, stir in chopped mint leaves.
6. Serve over ice and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None needed! This recipe is a quick and easy way to make a delicious summer drink.
Ground Cherry and Pork Tenderloin Skewers
Elevate your grilling game with this unique and flavorful recipe, combining tender pork tenderloin with sweet and tangy ground cherries.
Ingredients:
– 1 (6 oz) pork tenderloin
– 1 cup ground cherries (fresh or frozen)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp honey
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 10 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the pork tenderloin.
4. Thread pork tenderloin onto the skewers, leaving a 1-inch space between each piece.
5. Place ground cherries on top of the pork, leaving a small border around the edges.
6. Grill for 8-10 minutes per side, or until pork reaches desired doneness.
7. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Summary
Discover the sweet and savory flavors of ground cherries with these 20 mouthwatering recipes! From classic desserts like Ground Cherry Pie with Flaky Crust to tangy salsas like Ground Cherry Salsa with Jalapeños, there’s something for every taste bud. Enjoy a sweet treat with Ground Cherry Muffins with Cinnamon Streusel or indulge in savory delights like Ground Cherry and Bacon Flatbread. Get creative with Ground Cherry Compote over Ice Cream or satisfy your cravings with Ground Cherry BBQ Sauce for Ribs. Whatever your craving, these recipes are sure to delight!
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