All You Need to Know About Blueberries
There's nothing quite like the taste of fresh, sun-ripened blueberries, especially when you've picked them yourself. Blueberry season on the West Coast of Canada typically runs from July to September, making it the perfect time to get outside and fill your basket. Whether you're heading to a local farm or picking up a pint at the market, knowing how to pick blueberries and how to store them properly will help you make the most of every juicy bite. Here's everything you need to know!
How to Pick Blueberries
If you’re wondering how to pick blueberries, start by looking under the branches of a blueberry bush. Some of the best blueberries are tucked away there. Find deep blue coloured ones as they are ripe and ready. Gently cup a cluster of berries in your hand, then use your thumb to softly roll the ripe ones off. There's no need to yank at the berries since the ready ones will come off with little effort. Avoid any berries with red or green on them, as they still need a few days to ripen. With a little bit of time and patience, you'll end up with a bucket full of sweet, juicy blueberries.
Blueberry Storage Tips
Once you've picked a batch of blueberries, handling them with care is important so they stay fresh and delicious. Knowing how to store blueberries will help you enjoy your harvest for days (or even weeks or more) to come. Here's how to keep your blueberries at their best:
Tip 1 - Keep them dry!
Like most berries, moisture can speed up spoilage, and blueberries are no exception. When stored wet, they're more likely to grow mold or turn mushy. To keep them fresh as long as possible, avoid washing them until you're ready to eat them. If you rinse them too soon, even a little leftover moisture can shorten their shelf life in the fridge.
Tip 2 - Use an airtight container in the fridge.
Store your blueberries in the fridge in an airtight container lined with a paper towel to help absorb any excess moisture. Some people choose to give their blueberries a quick vinegar or salt water bath before storing them, which can help kill mold spores and extend freshness. If you go this route, rinse the berries well afterward and let them dry completely before refrigerating. Whether you rinse or not, keeping the berries dry and cool is key to making them last as long as possible.
Tip 3 - Freeze for later!
If you want to keep your blueberries for future use, freezing them is a great option. Start by spreading the berries in a single layer on a baking sheet. This step prevents them from sticking together and helps them freeze individually. Once frozen solid, transfer the berries to an airtight container or freezer bag. Make sure to squeeze out any excess air before sealing the bag to avoid freezer burn. Properly stored, frozen blueberries can last up to a year and are perfect for smoothies, baking, or enjoying as a snack whenever you want!
Fun Facts About Blueberries
Blueberries aren't just delicious. They've got some pretty cool facts behind them, too. From where they grow to who they're related to, here's a quick peek at what makes blueberries so special!
Born in North America:
Blueberries are native to this continent, whether wild lowbush or the bigger, farmed highbush variety.
Blueberry Central:
According to Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, Canada is the world’s second-largest producer of highbush blueberries.
They Have a Big Family:
The Canadian Encyclopedia states, there are about 480 species in the same plant family, but only some are true blueberries. They're closely related to cranberries, huckleberries, lingonberries, and grouseberries!