We have all heard of food pairing. We pair certain types of wine with different meals and different kinds of snacks with different types of beer. The same goes for fruit and spices. Certain spices can enhance the flavours of various fruits provided you pair them properly.
Apples
Apples are commonly paired with cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice. Of course, if you are looking for something different, how about adding anise or star anise for a bit of licorice flavour? Crushed juniper berries also enhance the flavour of apples.
Pears
Like apples, pears can also be paired with warm spices. If you poach your peaches, they will release a lovely honey-like flavour and this can be enhanced by adding a split vanilla bean to syrup before simmering the pears in this syrup.
Citrus
Citrus fruits like lemons, oranges, and limes have a bold flavour and are known for their acidic taste. They should be paired with bolder flavours like cinnamon, cloves, ginger, cumin, and chilies if you enjoy spice.
Pineapple
Pineapples hare a lovely exotic flavour that tastes best when paird with warm spices. Allspice is a particular favourite when it comes to pineapple. You can also add spice like paprika or even curry if you like.
Papaya
Papaya has a mild flavour and it is not overly sweet. If you add a squeeze of lime or lemon juice, it will enhance the flavour of this fruit. You can also add sumac (a fruity spice from the Middle East). If you grind up the seeds from the fruit and sprinkle them over the fruit for a spicy sensation.
Stone fruits
Examples of stone fruits include nectarines, peaches, and apricots. They have wonderful sweet flavours and they are enjoyed both fresh and in baked dishes. These fruits are delicious with cinnamon, allspice, and other warm spices. You can even use ginger or cloves if you like.
The next time you want to make a delicious fruity dish, make sure that you choose the right spice or spices to complement and enhance the natural flavours of the fruit you choose.