With your neighbourhood fruitwalla stocking up on cherries, the time is ripe for cooking them into delectable dishes. Historically, cherries have been relished not just for their fresh, sweet taste but also for their versatility in cooking. If you like a sweet-tangy hit, chefs agree that cherries are your go-to flavourants for classic dessert recipes.

Beyond traditional uses, these tiny red balls also have a fascinating culinary history. In Japan, for example, cherry blossoms (sakura) are not only celebrated for their beauty but also used to flavour sweets and teas. In the United States, cherry festivals often highlight unique recipes like cherry barbecue sauce and pickled cherries, showcasing the fruit's adaptability. So, this cherry season, why not explore these lesser-known practices and incorporate cherries into your cooking for a fresh twist on regular recipes?