Dried apricots have been harvested for the winter since ancient times. Small-fruited varieties are dried whole, without separating them from the seeds, this is how an apricot is obtained. The whole fruit, dried without pits, is called kaisa. And if a large-fruited apricot is freed from a stone, divided into halves and dried, it is dried apricots.
The chemical composition of dried apricots
Properly dried dried apricots have almost the same chemical composition as fresh apricots. Therefore, the best is the one that has been naturally dried under the sun. If moisture gets on the future dried apricots during this process, then it darkens. The bright orange color of dried apricots is the result of processing with chemicals that are used to better preserve the product. Before eating such dried apricots, they should first be soaked and rinsed well under running water.
Dried apricot does not have a very extensive set of vitamins, but there is even more calcium, potassium, phosphorus, magnesium and iron in it than in fresh fruits. Sunny yellow color is due to the presence of a sufficient amount of carotene (vitamin A), vitamins C, E, PP and B vitamins are also present. Dried apricots are high in calories and nutritious, they are in demand among nutritionists and people who want to lose weight. There are even special diets based on dried apricots. They either consume it on their own, or add it to various cereals and fruit mixtures.
Useful properties of dried apricots
Dried apricots help to maintain visual acuity, reduce blood pressure, strengthen the body and increase immunity, removes heavy metals and radionuclides from the body. It is a source of fiber for healthy digestion. Regular consumption of this dried fruit in food serves as the prevention of diseases of the liver, kidneys, as well as diseases of the cardiovascular system.
Dried apricot compote raises hemoglobin well, which is useful for anemia. When using antibiotics, it is recommended to eat a small portion of dried apricots, this reduces the harmful effects of drugs on the body. Thanks to vitamin A, dried apricots have a rejuvenating effect, maintain skin and nails in order, prevent hair splitting and hair loss.
But it should be remembered that this healthy product, when consumed in large quantities, can cause stomach upset. Do not abuse dried apricots and with gastritis, pancreatitis, hypotension and diabetes mellitus.
Dried apricot compote
To prepare this refreshing and healthy drink, you will need:
- a glass of dried apricots;
- 2 liters of water;
- 2-3 tablespoons of sugar (to taste).
Soak dried fruits for half an hour in warm water, then wash thoroughly one by one. Put dried apricots in cold water, add a little sugar and cook for 5-7 minutes. If necessary, add more sugar and let it brew. It is better to drink compote during the day, because when stored overnight in the refrigerator, it loses most of its properties.
