When can you start eating raspberries in Azerbaijan?

Raspberry conquers Azerbaijan: the season of aromatic berry is in full swing

Juicy, aromatic and incredibly delicious raspberry has become a true gem of the summer season in Azerbaijan. This bright berry decorates country houses, fills market stalls and pleases the eye in family gardens throughout the country.

When raspberry paradise arrives in Azerbaijan

The favorable climate of the republic gives residents an early harvest of this precious berry. The first ripe fruits begin to please Azerbaijanis already in late June, while the real raspberry boom occurs in July. Residents of mountainous and foothill regions, such as Gusar, Guba and Ismayilli, enjoy the sweet treat longer – until August.

Some farms in the country grow special remontant varieties, delighting with a second harvest closer to September. These autumn berries, though smaller than their summer counterparts, are just as good in taste.

Secrets of choosing the perfect raspberry

Raspberry is ready to please you with its taste immediately after harvesting if it:

is fully ripe, has become a rich red, burgundy, yellow or even black color;

easily separates from the receptacle;

is soft but doesn't leak when lightly pressed;

has no mold, dark spots or signs of spoilage.

It's important to remember that raspberry is a very delicate berry, and it's better to pick it early in the morning or during cooler times of the day. In hot weather, it quickly loses juiciness and aroma.

A treasure trove of vitamins and important precautions

Raspberry is rich in vitamins C, A, E, and also contains iron, calcium, fiber and antioxidants. The berry strengthens immunity, improves digestion and helps eliminate toxins. It is often recommended for colds - raspberry tea with honey has long been a folk remedy for fever.

However, raspberry should be consumed with caution by people with:

allergies to red fruits;

gastrointestinal diseases in the acute stage;

urolithiasis.

For children, raspberry should be introduced into the diet gradually, starting with one or two berries, preferably not earlier than 10 months of age.

Choosing the best raspberry: homegrown or from the market?

Raspberries appear in Azerbaijan's markets and supermarkets closer to July. It's better to choose local berries harvested the same day. They are more aromatic and less treated with chemicals compared to imported ones.

When buying, pay attention to:

freshness (berries should not be stuck together or wet);

smell (ripe raspberry always has a bright and sweet aroma);

packaging (it's preferable to buy raspberries in a flat container so that the bottom berries are not crushed).

In Azerbaijan, the most suitable time for eating fresh raspberries is from late June to late July, and in mountainous regions - even longer. This is not just a tasty but also a very healthy berry that should be included in the summer diet of the whole family. The main thing is to choose fresh berries, not overeat, and enjoy every juicy fruit of the short but generous season.