The cranberry is a delicious fruit that creates even more delicious food and beverages, along with some sweet benefits! Let’s explore why this special berry embodies the season and why you should incorporate it into your home.
Did you know that cranberries have a rich historical significance? Legend has it that they were part of the feast during the very first Thanksgiving in Plymouth, Massachusetts, in 1621. This unique berry was even declared the official state berry of Massachusetts in 1994. Today, it’s a staple at more than 94 percent of Thanksgiving dinners every year. The cranberry’s journey through history is fascinating, and its a tradition that continues today.
Healing Powers
Cranberries have immense health benefits. In their rawest, purest form, cranberries are great for oral and dental hygiene and whitening teeth. They are wonderfully high in antioxidants that can reduce damage to cells that can lead to cancer, heart disease and other degenerative diseases. They reduce inflammation, which is associated with chronic disease and aging. Cranberries also help with digestive health, improve gut bacteria, and prevent UTIs.
Cranberries are not just for physical health, but they also work on a mental and spiritual basis. They are believed to ward off negative energies and attract positive vibes. They purify and cleanse spaces since they are 90 percent water. Cranberries also symbolize abundance and joy and help to strengthen relationships.
Cranberry Magic in the Kitchen
Let your imagination run wild, chef! There are a plethora of recipes and ideas available for cranberries. Cranberries are so versatile that you can cook with them for all three meals. Cranberry pumpkin muffins or cranberry orange smoothies for breakfast will make the day upbeat and abundant! For dinner, create an entire menu dedicated to cranberries. Start with a cranberry cocktail like a cosmopolitan or ginger beer, cranberry juice, vodka, and a sprig of rosemary. Then, incorporate dried cranberries into a seasonal salad with persimmons and pomegranate seeds. Include cranberry sauce with meats like turkey, pork or chicken. And finish with a delicious white chocolate cranberry gingerbread cheesecake.
Create Unique Flair
Cranberries are more than just edible berries. Get that artificial red dye out of here and use cranberries instead. Cranberries are rich in pigmentation and make for solid and durable dyes. Use cranberries in seasonal décor such as wreaths and garlands.
Have some friends over or involve the kids in stringing cranberries together as a gratitude string. Begin stringing fresh cranberries onto a thread, focusing on the intention for protection and positivity. Once you have finished stringing, hold the completed garland in your hands. Close your eyes and visualize the protective and positive energy surrounding you, amplified by the cranberries strung together. Tie the ends of the thread securely to form a loop for a garland. Hang at home as a protective charm, reminding you of the intentions you set while creating it.
So, how will you incorporate this magical berry this season? Let us know, and we hope everyone has a beautiful holiday!
