Surinam Cherry Recipes: 5 Delicious Ways to Use Pitanga Fruit

Surinam cherries, also known as pitanga or Brazilian cherries, are one of the most versatile tropical fruits you’ll encounter. With their distinctive ribbed shape, vibrant red color, and unique sweet-tart flavor, these little gems offer endless culinary possibilities—from homemade jams and refreshing smoothies to elegant sorbets and savory salsas.

Whether you have a pitanga tree in your backyard or discovered these exotic fruits at a local market, this guide will show you exactly how to use them. Below you’ll find our favorite Surinam cherry recipes along with tips for selecting, storing, and preparing this tropical treasure.

What Are Surinam Cherries?

Surinam cherries (Eugenia uniflora) are small, ribbed fruits native to the tropical regions of South America, particularly Brazil, Suriname, and Guyana. Despite their name, they’re not true cherries but belong to the Myrtaceae family, making them relatives of guava and jabuticaba.

The fruit ranges in color from orange to deep red (almost black when fully ripe), with darker fruits typically being sweeter and less resinous. Each cherry contains one to three seeds that are easily removed. The flavor profile is complex—sweet with tangy undertones and a slight resinous quality that mellows when the fruit is cooked.

History and Origin of Surinam Cherries

Indigenous peoples of South America have cultivated and enjoyed Surinam cherries for centuries. During the 16th and 17th centuries, European colonizers introduced the fruit to other tropical regions, including the Caribbean, Africa, and Southeast Asia.

The fruit gained popularity for its vibrant color, distinctive sweet-tart flavor, and culinary versatility. Over time, Surinam cherries evolved from a wild-gathered fruit to a commercially cultivated crop. Today, they’re grown throughout tropical and subtropical regions worldwide, prized for their ornamental value as hedges and their delicious fruit.

How to Select and Store Surinam Cherries

Selecting: Choose fruits that are fully colored (deep red to almost black) and slightly soft to the touch. Avoid fruits that are orange or yellow, as they’ll be quite tart and resinous. The darker the fruit, the sweeter and more mellow the flavor.

Storing: Fresh Surinam cherries are highly perishable. Store them in a single layer in the refrigerator and use within 2-3 days. For longer storage, pit and freeze the cherries on a baking sheet, then transfer to freezer bags for up to 6 months.

Surinam Cherry Jam Recipe

One of the most popular ways to enjoy Surinam cherries is as a sweet-tart jam. This preserve captures the fruit’s unique flavor and can be stored for weeks. Use it on toast, swirl into yogurt, or glaze meats.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: About 3 cups

Ingredients

• 4 cups (600g) pitted Surinam cherries
• 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 cup (120ml) water
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Wash Surinam cherries thoroughly and remove stems. Cut each cherry in half vertically and remove the seed. You can leave them halved or roughly chop them.

Step 2: Place pitted cherries, sugar, lemon juice, and water in a large heavy-bottomed saucepan. Stir to combine and let sit for 10 minutes to allow the fruit to release some juice.

Step 3: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. Reduce heat to medium and simmer for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 4: Test for doneness by placing a small amount on a cold plate. If it wrinkles when pushed with your finger, the jam is ready. If still runny, continue cooking for 5 more minutes.

Step 5: Pour hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving 1/4 inch headspace. Seal and let cool completely. Refrigerate for up to 3 weeks, or process in a water bath for shelf-stable storage.

Surinam Cherry Salsa

For a refreshing twist on traditional salsa, Surinam cherries make an excellent base. The sweet-tart flavor pairs beautifully with savory elements and adds vibrant color to any dish.

Ingredients: 2 cups pitted and diced Surinam cherries, 1/4 cup diced red onion, 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro (chopped), juice of 1 lime, 1 jalapeño (seeded and minced), pinch of salt.

Instructions: Combine all ingredients in a bowl and toss gently. Let sit for 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Serve with tortilla chips or as a topping for grilled fish, chicken, or tacos.

Surinam Cherry Smoothie

Start your day with a nutrient-packed Surinam cherry smoothie. The fruit’s natural sweetness and tartness create a refreshing, energizing drink.

Ingredients: 1 cup frozen pitted Surinam cherries, 1 cup plain yogurt, 1/2 banana, 1 tablespoon honey, 1/2 cup milk or almond milk, handful of spinach (optional).

Instructions: Add all ingredients to a blender and process until smooth and creamy. Add more milk if needed to reach desired consistency. Pour into a glass and enjoy immediately.

Surinam Cherry Sorbet

For a refreshing frozen treat, Surinam cherry sorbet is simply divine. This dairy-free dessert showcases the fruit’s beautiful color and complex flavor.

Ingredients: 3 cups pitted Surinam cherries, 3/4 cup sugar, 1 cup water, 2 tablespoons lemon juice.

Instructions: Make a simple syrup by dissolving sugar in water over medium heat. Let cool completely. Puree cherries and lemon juice in a blender until smooth. Strain to remove any fibrous bits. Combine puree with cooled syrup. Pour into a shallow dish and freeze, stirring every 30 minutes until firm (about 3-4 hours). Alternatively, use an ice cream maker according to manufacturer’s instructions.

Surinam Cherry Vinaigrette

Add a burst of tropical flavor to your salads with this homemade Surinam cherry vinaigrette. It pairs especially well with mixed greens, goat cheese, and candied pecans.

Ingredients: 1/4 cup Surinam cherry jam, 3 tablespoons olive oil, 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, salt and pepper to taste.

Instructions: Whisk all ingredients together until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Drizzle over fresh salads, grilled vegetables, or roasted chicken.

More Ways to Use Surinam Cherries

Beyond these recipes, here are additional ways to enjoy this versatile fruit:

• Baked Goods: Use like berries in muffins, cakes, pies, and cobblers
• Beverages: Make juice, wine, or infuse into cocktails
• Syrups: Create flavored syrups for pancakes, desserts, or cocktails
• Meat Glazes: Reduce with sugar and balsamic for pork or duck
• Fruit Leather: Puree and dehydrate for healthy snacks
• Ice Cream: Swirl jam into vanilla ice cream or make from scratch

Nutritional Benefits of Surinam Cherries

Surinam cherries are more than just delicious—they’re also nutritious. These small fruits are rich in vitamin C, vitamin A, and antioxidants. They contain calcium, phosphorus, and iron, and are relatively low in calories. Some preliminary research suggests they may have anti-inflammatory and blood sugar-regulating properties, though more studies are needed.

More Tropical Fruit Recipes

If you enjoy cooking with exotic fruits, explore these other delicious recipes:

• Guava Paste – Another beloved Brazilian fruit preserve
• Cherry Chip Cake – A classic cherry dessert
• Homemade Vanilla Paste – Perfect for enhancing fruit desserts
• Eggless Oatmeal Cookies – Add dried Surinam cherries for a twist

Start Cooking with Surinam Cherries

Surinam cherries are a versatile tropical fruit that deserves more attention in kitchens worldwide. Whether you transform them into jam, blend them into smoothies, freeze them as sorbet, or serve them fresh in salsa, these little fruits deliver big flavor.

If you’re lucky enough to have access to fresh Surinam cherries, try one of these recipes and discover why this tropical gem has been cherished in South America for centuries. The unique sweet-tart flavor adds something special to both sweet and savory dishes alike.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can you do with Surinam cherries?

Surinam cherries are incredibly versatile. You can make jams, jellies, and preserves; blend them into smoothies and juices; create sorbets and ice cream; make salsas and sauces; use them in baked goods like pies, muffins, and cakes; create syrups for cocktails and desserts; or enjoy them fresh as a snack.

Can you eat Surinam cherries raw?

Yes, Surinam cherries can be eaten raw. Wait until they are fully ripe (deep red to almost black in color) for the sweetest flavor. To eat fresh, cut the cherry vertically and spread it open to remove the seed. Some people find them refreshing while others prefer them cooked, which mellows the resinous notes.

Is Surinam cherry good for diabetes?

Preliminary research suggests Surinam cherries may have blood sugar-regulating properties, potentially making them beneficial for people with diabetes or those at risk. However, more scientific studies are needed to confirm these effects. Always consult with a healthcare provider before using any food as a diabetes management strategy.

How do you know when Surinam cherries are ripe?

Surinam cherries are ripe when they turn from orange to deep red or almost black. The darker the fruit, the sweeter and less resinous it will taste. Ripe cherries should be slightly soft to the touch and will fall easily from the tree. Avoid picking green or orange fruits as they will be very tart.

How long do Surinam cherries last?

Fresh Surinam cherries are highly perishable and will last only 2-3 days when stored properly in the refrigerator. For longer storage, pit the cherries and freeze them for up to 6 months. Made into jam or preserves, they can last 3 weeks refrigerated or up to a year when properly canned.