FOOD NEWS
The Special Italian Cherries Bobby Flay Uses Constantly
By Heidi Chaya
In addition to containing tons of healthy antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, cherries aren't only great for versatile cooking because of their flavor. As a culinary darling, it seems that the world can't get enough of cherries, but when it comes to celebrity chef Bobby Flay, there's one Italian variation to which he is loyal.
Grown in Italy's Bologna and Modena regions and packed in charming ornate ceramic jars, Amarena cherries deliver a signature sweet and tart flavor that Bobby Flay happily utilizes in recipes from cocktails to gelato. Coming from the Italian word amaro, meaning "bitter," Amarena cherries have a robust fruity flavor whose bitter taste is mellowed by soaking in syrup, which can contain sweeteners, cherry juice, and natural coloring.
You can find Amarena cherries from online food purveyors, select liquor stores like Total Wine & More, or gourmet food stores like Whole Foods Market. Put them to good use in Bobby Flay's cherry bellinis and margaritas recipes, where the deep red color produces beautiful cocktails, or for a kid-friendly "mocktail," omit the liquor to create sweet cherry slushy cups.