How Do You Use Old Fruit?

You can repurpose old or overripe fruit in numerous delicious and practical ways, turning it into everything from baked goods and sauces to jams and salad dressings.

How to Repurpose Old Fruit

Don't toss that bruised apple or mushy banana! Overripe fruit often has intensified sweetness and flavor, making it perfect for cooking and baking. Utilizing fruit that's past its prime not only reduces food waste but also allows you to create tasty treats and ingredients.

Here are several effective methods for using old fruit, incorporating ideas from reliable sources:

Creative Ways to Use Old Fruit

Instead of discarding fruit that is slightly bruised or overripe, consider these simple yet creative applications:

• Make a Small Batch of Jam: Overripe fruit, especially berries, is ideal for making jam. Its natural pectin helps it set, and the ripeness means less added sugar might be needed. A small batch is easy to make on the stovetop.
• Bake a Quick Bread: Bananas, in particular, are famous for quick breads (like banana bread) when overripe. Other fruits like berries or apples can also be incorporated into muffins or loaf cakes, adding moisture and flavor.
• Bake a Crumble, Cobbler, or Crisp: These desserts are incredibly forgiving and perfect for using up softer fruits like peaches, berries, or apples. The fruit bakes down beautifully under a topping of crumbs, biscuits, or batter.
• Freeze Fruit for Future Smoothies: This is one of the easiest methods. Peel and chop fruit (like bananas, berries, or mangoes), lay it on a baking sheet to freeze individually, and then transfer to a freezer bag. Frozen fruit makes smoothies thick and cold without needing ice.
• Slow-Cook a Chunky Sauce: Apples, berries, or stone fruits can be slow-cooked into a rich, chunky sauce. This is excellent served warm over pancakes, waffles, or sundaes, or even alongside roasted meats.
• Use as a Topping for Grilled Meats and Fish: Cooked or slightly caramelized fruit can create a surprising and flavorful topping for savory dishes. Peaches or pineapples grill well and pair nicely with pork or chicken, while berry sauces can complement duck or fish.
• Make a Salad Dressing: Fruity vinaigrettes add a sweet and tangy note to salads. Puree soft fruits like berries or mangoes and whisk them into a base of oil, vinegar, and seasonings.

By using these methods, you can significantly reduce food waste and enjoy the full value of your fruit purchases.