Medlar

Mespilus germanica

Medlar is a Mediterranean temperate fruit renowned for its unique bletted texture and distinctive tangy-sweet flavor. Good source of vitamin C (15% DV) supporting immune function and antioxidant defense. Rich in dietary fiber (6.4g) supporting digestive health and regular bowel function. Contains polyphenols and tannins with powerful anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial benefits. Very low in calories (47 per 100g) ideal for weight management. Requires traditional bletting process for optimal palatability. Contains copper supporting collagen synthesis and immune function. Historical fruit with centuries of European culinary tradition. Medlar gaining contemporary recognition as specialty ingredient supporting wellness.

Calories

6.4g

Fiber

15%

Vitamin C

Photo Gallery

Explore Medlar in stunning detail

Medlar - Main View

Nutrition Facts

Calories

per 100g

Carbs

11.8g

per 100g

Protein

0.5g

per 100g

Fiber

6.4g

per 100g

Sugar

3.2g

per 100g

Fat

0.1g

per 100g

💊Vitamins

Per 100g

Vitamin C

15% DV

12 mg

Immune function, antioxidant defense, collagen synthesis, wound healing

Vitamin A

1% DV

27 IU

Eye health, immune function, skin health, vision support

Pyridoxine (B6)

2% DV

0.04 mg

Brain health, mood regulation, immune function, nervous system

⚡Minerals

Per 100g

Potassium

6% DV

198 mg

Heart health, blood pressure regulation, muscle function

Copper

14% DV

0.13 mg

Collagen synthesis, iron metabolism, immune function

Manganese

3% DV

0.07 mg

Bone health, metabolism, antioxidant support

🛡️Antioxidants

Vitamin CPolyphenolsTanninsFlavonoids

🌿Phytonutrients

Polyphenols - powerful antioxidant compounds with anti-inflammatory and cardiovascular benefitsTannins - astringent compounds with antimicrobial, digestive, and antioxidant propertiesFlavonoids - antioxidant pigments with neuroprotective and cardioprotective benefitsPectins - soluble fiber compounds supporting digestive health and cholesterol management

📊Glycemic Index

Per Serving

Nutrition breakdown for one serving

📏

Serving Size

100g bletted medlar fruit

Calories

47kcal

Breakdown

Carbs

11.8g

Fiber

6.4g

25% DV

Sugar

3.2g

Protein

0.5g

Fat

0.1g

Vitamin C

💊

12mg

15% DV

Potassium

⚡

198mg

6% DV

Health Benefits

Exceptional fiber (6.4g) supports superior digestive health and regular bowel function

Rich polyphenols and tannins provide anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial benefits

Good vitamin C (15% DV) supports immune function and antioxidant defense

Excellent copper (14% DV) supports collagen synthesis and immune function

Very low calorie (47/100g) ideal for weight management and metabolic health

Good potassium (6% DV) supports heart health and blood pressure regulation

Low glycemic index (25) and load (3) ideal for blood sugar management

Tannins provide powerful antimicrobial and digestive support

Pectins support cholesterol management and digestive health

European tradition supporting centuries of wellness practices

Origin & Distribution

Native Region

Mediterranean, Western Asia, Europe

Global Presence

France

Germany

United Kingdom

Italy

Spain

Turkey

Iran

Greece

Top Producers

FranceGermanyUnited KingdomMediterranean region

Historical Background

Medlar native to Mediterranean and Western Asia with centuries of European cultivation. Ancient European cuisine foundation. Medieval texts documenting cultivation. Renaissance documentation expanding knowledge. Traditional European harvest practice. Modern cultivation expanding to specialty orchards. Health benefit research validating traditional digestive benefits. Culinary tradition continuing as specialty preserves and jams ingredient.

Peak Season

Best Time to Enjoy

Peak season October-November in Northern Hemisphere

3 Varieties Available

Explore Varieties

Each variety offers unique flavors, textures, and culinary applications

German Giant

Germany, premium heirloom variety

Color

Brown bletted flesh, large fruit

Taste Profile

Rich complex flavor with tangy-sweet balance after bletting

Best For

Preserves, jams, specialty culinary, raw eating

Nottingham

United Kingdom, traditional variety

Color

Brown bletted flesh, medium-sized fruit

Taste Profile

Balanced tangy-sweet flavor, pleasant aroma

Best For

Preserves, jams, traditional dishes

Royal

France, regional heirloom variety

Color

Deep brown flesh, small to medium fruit

Taste Profile

Sweet flavor with mild tartness after bletting

Best For

Fresh eating, jams, culinary

Storage & Selection Guide

Keep your fruit fresh and delicious for longer

How to Choose the Perfect Fruit

Select firm medlar without soft spots or bruises

Choose brownish color indicating maturity

Look for slight aroma indicating ripeness

Press gently - should be firm, not mushy

Avoid green unripe specimens

Check for uniform color and appearance

Purchase from specialty grocers or farmers markets

Select consistent size for even bletting

Proper Storage Methods

Store at room temperature up to 2 days before bletting

Refrigerate for extended storage up to 10 days before bletting

Keep in produce drawer away from ethylene-producing fruits

Do not wash before storing to preserve shelf life

Can be frozen whole up to 3 months before bletting

Best consumed after traditional bletting process

Avoid plastic wrap - allow air circulation

Bletting process requires 1-2 weeks at room temperature

Shelf Life Guide

Refrigerated

8-10 days before bletting

Average Shelf Life

10 days

Freezing Instructions

Preserve freshness for months

2-3 months

Medlar best consumed after bletting

Can freeze whole fruit up to 3 months

Thaw before bletting process

Frozen fruit excellent for preserves

Bletting process works with frozen fruit

Frozen fruit maintains fiber content

Preserves freeze indefinitely when sealed

Pro Tip

Label frozen items with the date to track freshness. Most fruits maintain quality for 2-3 months when properly frozen. For best results, use airtight containers or freezer bags to prevent freezer burn.

Culinary Journey

Discover delicious possibilities

Common Uses

Preserves and jams

Jelly preparation

Fresh eating after bletting

Cheese/paste preparation

Dessert ingredient

Sauce base

Baking ingredient

Traditional culinary

Perfect Pairings

Sugar - sweetness enhancement

Lemon - citrus contrast

Spices - warming enhancement

Cream - richness pairing

Apple - fruit combination

Honey - natural sweetening

Cinnamon - aromatic pairing

Ginger - spice deepening

Popular Recipes

Medlar preserves

Medlar jelly

Medlar cheese

Medlar paste

Traditional jams

Dessert sauce

Fresh eating after bletting

Baked goods ingredient

Refreshing Beverages

Medlar juice

Medlar cordial

Medlar tea

Traditional beverage

Herbal infusion

Digestive tonic

Wellness drink

Culinary beverage

Safety Information

Allergy Information:

Medlar allergies extremely rare with minimal documented cases. Temperate fruit allergies uncommon. Allergic reactions very uncommon. Generally safe for most individuals after bletting. Those with fruit sensitivities should consult allergist. Possible cross-reactivity with apple/pear family but rare.

Pesticide Concerns:

Medlar cultivated with varying pesticide practices in Europe. Organic medlar available from certified orchards. Conventional fruit acceptable with water rinsing. European suppliers often emphasizing traditional and sustainable cultivation practices.

Who Should Avoid:

• Individuals with documented pome fruit allergies - though medlar reactions very rare
• Those with apple/pear family allergies - possible cross-reactivity though unlikely
• Individuals consuming raw medlar - high tannin content requires bletting first
• Those on specific medications - consult provider regarding high fiber if concerns
• Individuals with specific medical conditions - consult healthcare provider if concerns

Possible Side Effects:

•Allergic reactions (very rare) ranging from mild symptoms to swelling
•Digestive irritation if raw fruit consumed - bletting eliminates this
•Digestive adjustment from exceptional fiber - requires gradual introduction
•Minor digestive changes in some individuals with high intake
•Generally well-tolerated by most individuals after proper bletting

Preparation Safety:

• Bletting process essential before consuming - raw medlar not recommended
• Store at room temperature for 1-2 weeks until soft and brown
• Rinse medlar under water before bletting process
• Use clean utensils for handling and preparation
• Wash hands after handling raw fruit
• Store properly to prevent mold or deterioration during bletting
• Discard any moldy or deteriorated fruit
• Use bletted medlar within 2-3 days of completion
• Follow food safety guidelines for preserve making
• Consult healthcare provider for specific concerns

Fun Facts

Surprising trivia you'll love!

Medlar native to Mediterranean region with centuries of European cultivation documented in medieval texts

Exceptional fiber (6.4g) among highest of temperate fruits supporting superior digestive health

Unique bletting requirement transforms inedible raw fruit to edible custard-like texture over 1-2 weeks

High tannin content in raw fruit dramatically reduces through bletting process enabling palatability

Rich polyphenols and tannins provide antimicrobial benefits validating traditional digestive remedy use

Low glycemic index (25) and load (3) ideal for diabetic-friendly and blood sugar management

Medieval European cuisine staple with historical significance documented in ancient texts and royal courts

Very low calorie (47/100g) making it one of lowest-calorie temperate fruits for weight management

Frost naturally accelerates bletting process making winter harvest traditional European practice

Modern scientific research beginning to validate centuries of European traditional digestive and medicinal knowledge

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the bletting process and why is it essential for consuming medlar?

Health

Medlar unique fruit requiring traditional bletting process for palatability. BLETTING DEFINITION: Natural softening process. Over-ripening transformation. Tannin breakdown. Flavor development. Traditional preparation. BLETTING NECESSITY: Raw medlar inedible. High tannin content. Astringent properties strong. Bletting essential. Cultural requirement. BLETTING PROCESS: Medlar hardened fruit. Room temperature placement. 1-2 weeks duration. Softening occurs. Brown color develops. Aromatic aroma appears. Tannin reduction. Flavor transformation. Edible consistency. BLETTING TIMELINE: 1-2 weeks typical. Temperature dependent. Cooler climates longer. Warmer climates shorter. Frost accelerates bletting. Ripeness indicators. TEXTURE CHANGE: Raw fruit firm hard. Bletted fruit soft custard-like. Flesh becomes creamy. Edible consistency achieved. Flavor accessible. FLAVOR DEVELOPMENT: Raw fruit highly astringent. Bletted fruit tangy-sweet. Complex flavors emerge. Pleasant aroma develops. Traditional taste. TANNIN BREAKDOWN: Raw fruit high tannins. Bletting reduces tannins. Digestive friendliness improves. Palatability increases. Traditional transformation. FROST ACCELERATION: Frost hastens bletting. Winter harvest common. Traditional practice. Natural acceleration. Temperature effect. DIGESTIVE BENEFITS: Bletting aids digestion. Tannin reduction beneficial. Fiber accessibility improved. Traditional medicine foundation. Health benefit. BOTTOM LINE: Medlar requires traditional bletting process essential for transformation from inedible firm raw fruit to soft creamy custard-like texture, reducing high astringent tannins over 1-2 weeks at room temperature, developing complex tangy-sweet flavor and aromatic aroma, improving digestive friendliness and palatability, with frost naturally accelerating process making winter harvest traditional European practice.

What are the best culinary applications for medlar and which traditional European recipes showcase its flavor?

Recipes

Medlar versatile temperate fruit ingredient with traditional applications emphasizing preserves, jams, and historical European dishes. PRESERVES PREPARATION: Traditional jams. Spread ingredient. Shelf-stable preparation. Long-term storage. Cultural tradition. MEDLAR PRESERVES RECIPE: Bletted medlar 2kg, sugar 1kg, lemon juice 100ml, simmer 45 minutes, jar hot. MEDLAR JELLY: Fruit juice strained. Sugar combined. Gel formation. Premium presentation. Traditional preparation. JELLY RECIPE: Medlar juice 1 liter, sugar 800g, lemon juice, simmer until set, jar hot. MEDLAR CHEESE: Fruit puree. Sugar combined. Solid consistency. Slicing texture. Historic preparation. CHEESE RECIPE: Bletted medlar 1kg, sugar 500g, cook until thick, spread on parchment, cut into shapes. FRESH EATING: After bletting complete. Spoon scooped. Custard-like consistency. Simple enjoyment. Traditional method. SAUCE PREPARATION: Bletted fruit base. Sugar sweetening. Spice addition. Meat complement. Culinary application. BAKING APPLICATION: Preserve base. Pastry filling. Cake ingredient. Dessert preparation. Flavor enhancement. MEDLAR TART: Pastry shell, medlar preserve filling, baked until golden, serve with cream. DIGESTIVE TONIC: Traditional remedy. Digestive support. Health tonic. Culinary medicine. Historic application. SPICED MEDLAR: Sugar, cinnamon, clove, ginger addition, preserve preparation, warming spice. BOTTOM LINE: Medlar quintessential European temperate fruit ingredient with traditional preserves and jams as signature applications, medlar cheese as historic specialty, fresh eating after bletting as simple preparation, sauce and baking applications emphasizing distinctive tangy-sweet flavor, digestive tonic traditional remedy, and recipes highlighting distinctive complex flavor profile, exceptional fiber content, antimicrobial tannins, and culinary versatility central to European culinary heritage.

Is medlar safe for consumption and what populations should be aware of?

Safety

Medlar safe for consumption after bletting with minimal documented safety concerns. Generally well-tolerated by most populations when properly prepared. ALLERGY INFO: Medlar allergies extremely rare. Temperate fruit allergies uncommon. Allergic reactions very uncommon. Generally safe for most individuals. Those with fruit sensitivities should consult allergist. Cross-reactivity with apple/pear possible but rare. BLETTING REQUIREMENT: Raw medlar not recommended. High tannin content problematic. Astringent properties strong. Digestive irritation possible if raw. Bletting essential. DIGESTIVE CONSIDERATIONS: Fiber content exceptional. High fiber beneficial. Some experiencing digestive changes initially. Introduce gradually. Adequate hydration important. Digestive adaptation natural. TANNIN CONTENT: Raw fruit high tannins. Bletting reduces significantly. Safe levels after bletting. Generally well-tolerated. Moderation recommended for raw consumption. PREGNANCY CONSIDERATIONS: Medlar safe during pregnancy. Vitamin C beneficial. Fiber helpful. Tannin reduction beneficial. Moderation recommended. Consult healthcare provider. CHILDREN CONSIDERATIONS: Medlar safe for children after bletting. Complex flavor child-acceptance variable. Fiber beneficial. Nutritious food option. Age-appropriate consumption. ORAL HEALTH: Minimal acidity after bletting. Soft texture gentle. Fiber content protective. Generally protective. Moderation important. MEDICATION INTERACTIONS: Medlar unlikely to interact with medications. High fiber note for specific medications. Consult healthcare provider if concerns. Tannin interactions minimal after bletting. SIDE EFFECTS: Minimal side effects documented after bletting. Some experiencing digestive adjustment from fiber. Rare allergic reactions if sensitive. Most individuals tolerating well when properly prepared. STORAGE SAFETY: Bletting ensures safety. Use before deterioration. Proper handling important. Fresh consumption optimal. Preserves maintain safety. PESTICIDE CONCERNS: Medlar cultivated with varying practices in Europe. Organic medlar available. Conventional fruit acceptable. Wash before consuming. European suppliers often sustainable. BOTTOM LINE: Medlar safe for consumption after traditional bletting with minimal documented safety concerns, extremely rare allergies with possible pome fruit cross-reactivity if sensitive, high tannin content in raw fruit requiring bletting for safety, exceptional fiber beneficial with gradual introduction recommended, vitamin C and fiber beneficial during pregnancy with moderation, high palatability and safety for children after bletting, minimal medication interactions except fiber considerations, and consultation with healthcare provider appropriate for specific individual concerns.

What is the cultural significance of medlar in European cuisine and how has it been recognized historically?

Culture

Medlar profound cultural significance in European culinary tradition and traditional wellness practices spanning centuries. HISTORICAL ORIGINS: Native to Mediterranean and Western Asia. Ancient European cultivation foundation. Medieval documentation. Medieval cuisine staple. Historical food. EUROPEAN HERITAGE: Traditional European fruit. Regional agricultural heritage. Regional economic importance. Cultural symbol. Local pride. MEDIEVAL CUISINE: Medieval food staple. Historical significance documented. Culinary tradition foundation. Social importance. Noble courts. ANCIENT TEXTS: Classical documentation. Medieval references. Culinary documentation. Health references. Traditional knowledge. TRADITIONAL USES: Medicinal food foundation. Digestive remedy traditional. Health benefit emphasis. Therapeutic application. Wellness tradition. PRESERVE TRADITION: Preserve making traditional. Jam preparation centuries-old. Shelf storage important. Winter preparation. Seasonal significance. AUTUMN HARVEST: Autumn fruit tradition. Harvest season significant. October-November peak. Seasonal cycle. Agricultural calendar. MODERN EXPANSION: Contemporary specialty interest growing. Heirloom variety recognition. Heritage agriculture revival. Local food movement. Regional pride. HEALTH TRENDS: Contemporary superfruit recognition. Fiber emphasis. Digestive health focus. Scientific validation. Wellness community interest. DIASPORA SIGNIFICANCE: European communities maintaining traditions. Cultural heritage preservation. Identity connection. Intergenerational transmission. AUTHENTIC SOURCING: European medlar appreciation. Authentic experience seeking. Heritage varieties. Quality emphasis. Cultural authenticity. CULINARY REVIVAL: Contemporary chef interest. Modern applications. Heritage ingredient revival. Culinary artistry. Specialty market. SUSTAINABILITY FOCUS: Traditional cultivation methods. Orchard preservation. Biodiversity support. Heritage preservation. Environmental stewardship. BOTTOM LINE: Medlar profound cultural significance as centuries-old Mediterranean temperate fruit native to region, medieval European cuisine foundation and historical food staple, traditional European agricultural heritage and cultural identity, traditional preserve and jam making spanning centuries central to European culinary heritage, medicinal remedy and digestive health emphasis in traditional wellness, autumn harvest and seasonal significance in agricultural calendar, contemporary heirloom variety revival and heritage agriculture movement, modern superfruit recognition emphasizing fiber and digestive benefits, culinary revival among contemporary chefs and specialty markets, and emerging global interest as authentic European heritage culinary ingredient.