Sharon fruit is a great winter fruit yet not everybody is sure how to use it. Here are some delicious ideas.

Before you start, be sure to read up on our general tips for using Sharon fruit and its health benefits.

1. To make Sharon-fruit jam, remove the leaves and upper parts of 1kg of fruit.

Halve the fruit and, using a sharp knife, cut into 1 x 2cm strips.

Place in a glass bowl and sprinkle with 500g sugar.

Thinly slice 1 unpeeled lemon, add to the bowl and mix.

Cook in the microwave for 8 minutes, remove and stir. Cook for another 8 minutes, remove and stir.

Continue cooking for 4 minutes at a time, until the desired consistency is reached. Cool and transfer
to a jar. Keep refrigerated.

2. For a delicious apéritif, remove the top part of the fruit.

Cut it into small cubes and put in a shaker.

Add 60ml (4T) each of dry white wine and gin, and shake well.

Add crushed ice and shake again. Pour into apéritif glasses and serve immediately.

3. For a Sharon-fruit salad, peel and cut 6 Sharon fruits into cubes.

Peel and cut 3 stalks celery into small pieces. Add 30ml (2T) sugar and 60ml (¼ cup) lemon juice.

Add 100g chopped almonds or nuts, and 250ml (1 cup) pomegranate rubies, if you can find them, and toss gently.

Sharon fruit's also great in Middle Eastern Breakfast Tabbouleh  or simply slice in half and freeze, then serve as a 'natural' sorbet at your next dinner party.