Jujubes: Gumballs For Your Health
/
What Is A Jujube?
You may have seen these cute little fruits at farmer’s markets, Asian shops and Indian stores during the early autumn months. They’re jujubes, also known as red dates or Chinese dates. Jujubes resemble miniature ornamental apples when fully ripe, with their dappled brownish-yellowish skin and firm texture. Bite into one and you will find slightly spongy flesh with a date-like pit at the center.
Unlike the popular candy of the same name, which has absolutely no nutritional value, the jujube fruit is a nutritional powerhouse. It contains lots of fiber and is high in vitamins A and C, the B vitamins, iron, phosphorus and calcium.
What Are Jujubes Used For?
Jujubes have been cultivated for over 4,000 years and are employed heavily in Chinese medicine. They are used for combatting insomnia and pain, as well as for their sedative effects. Of course, they can be taken in supplement form – but they’re certainly more delicious in their natural form!
I love sending jujubes to school with my kids, as they become little jujube addicts during snack time. The anti-anxiety and pro-digestive effects alone make it a worthwhile treat!
How Do You Use A Jujube?
Besides popping jujubes into your mouth like gum balls, what are its culinary possibilities? Here is a sampling of ideas:
Boil into a tea
Dehydrate into dried fruit
Dry and use in place of dates or raisins
Dry, chop up and mix with almonds, walnuts and other nuts as a trail mix
