Love having fresh blackberries each summer? So do we. Here's how to keep 'em around for as long as possible.
Pick Blackberries will taste best when picked in late summer.
Buy Opt for soft (but still plump and juicy) berries without stems and cores. Look for a slightly dull (not shiny) surface -- this means they're at the height of ripeness.
Prep Gently rinse blackberries just before using, and for the best flavor, be sure to serve them at room temperature.
Store In the refrigerator: Store in a shallow container covered loosely with plastic wrap for up to four days. In the freezer: Rinse berries and freeze in a single layer on a cookie sheet lined with parchment paper. Once frozen, the berries can be stored in airtight freezer bags for up to six months.
Pair Blackberries taste even richer when paired with sparkling wine, mascarpone cheese, lemon, apples, oranges, peaches, or cinnamon.
Nestperts: Jeff Cox, author of
The Organic Food Shopper's Guide; Leanne Kitchen, author of
The Produce Bible.
-- The Nest Editors
May 04, 2010
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