The super red cherries that are commonly found today are called maraschino cherries. These cherries have been artificially colored to achieve their bright red hue, which makes them visually appealing and widely used as a garnish in various cocktails and desserts. However, it is interesting to note that maraschino cherries were not always this way.
Back in the day, when maraschino cherries were first invented, a different variety of cherry called Marasca cherries was used. These cherries were not only dark in color but also had a sour taste to them. The name “maraschino” actually comes from the Italian liqueur called maraschino, which was made from the Marasca cherries.
I remember trying Marasca cherries during a trip to Italy, and they were quite different from the maraschino cherries we commonly find today. The dark color and sour taste gave them a unique flavor profile, and they were often used in traditional Italian desserts and liqueurs.
Over time, the process of producing maraschino cherries evolved, and the focus shifted from using the dark and sour Marasca cherries to using sweet cherries. This change in cherry variety brought about a significant transformation in the flavor and appearance of maraschino cherries.
To achieve the vibrant red color that we associate with maraschino cherries, manufacturers began using food coloring agents. This artificial coloring process not only enhanced the visual appeal of the cherries but also masked the natural color of the sweet cherries used. The result is the super red cherries we commonly find in jars today.
However, it is worth noting that not all maraschino cherries are artificially colored. Some brands still use traditional methods and natural dyes to preserve the original appearance and taste of the cherries. These cherries may have a darker, more natural red color compared to the artificially bright red ones.
In recent years, there has been a growing interest in artisanal and natural food products, leading to the revival of the use of Marasca cherries in some specialty markets. These cherries are often associated with higher quality and a more authentic taste.
The super red cherries commonly known as maraschino cherries are artificially colored sweet cherries. However, their origins can be traced back to the dark and sour Marasca cherries, which were used in the early days of maraschino cherry production. The evolution of maraschino cherries and the shift to using sweet cherries, along with artificial coloring, have resulted in the visually striking cherries we know today.