Blueberries
Blueberries are chameleons while they grow. They begin with a pale green flesh, then turn reddish-purple, and finally take on their famous purple-blue hue once they are ripe. Blueberries are equally adaptable after they are harvested and are found fresh or frozen, in whole form or as purees, jellies, and jams. This super food is also linked to lower risk of high cholesterol, cancer, and cognitive degeneration.
Blueberries are one of the few commercially grown fruits native to North America. While they were a traditional ingredient in Native American cooking and a part of colonists’ diets, blueberries were not widely cultivated for sale until the early 20th century. Today, North America is the world’s leading blueberry producer, accounting for nearly 90% of global production. California ranks sixth among states growing the berries for fresh consumption.
To pick the best blueberries, look for berries that are firm. Shake the container (very gently) to see if the berries move freely. If they clump together, it is a sign that they are old or damaged. Blueberries will last for a week when kept covered in a refrigerator or for up to a year if frozen.
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Recipes with Blueberries
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Berry Platter with Labneh and Orange OilYotam Ottolenghi, Ixta Belfrage, and Tara Wigley, Ottolenghi Flavor |
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Blueberry-Ginger Beet SourKathryn Lukas, Farmhouse Culture Guide to Fermenting |
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Summer Blueberry and Stone Fruit CrostiniAmanda Cihlar, Sierra Cascade Blueberry Farm |
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Blueberry PieAnna Derivi-Castellanos, Three Babes Bakeshop |
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Articles about Blueberries
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May 25, 2018Berry Smart: A Farmers Market Guide to BerriesBerry season has started the farmers market. Do you know a tayberry from a olallieberry? |
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June 02, 2017True Blue: Blueberries Take Root in CaliforniaOne of the few cultivated fruit crops native to North America, blueberry production is on the rise in California. |
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June 10, 2011Spring's Last Gasp: RecipesThe fleeting fruits and vegetables of spring and early summer “keeps things exciting,” Locavore blogger Kimberly Hasselbrink of The Year in Food. She shares some recipes with CUESA. |
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December 12, 2008Terra Madre: Through the Farmers' Eyes: Sierra Cascade Blueberry Farm“The experiences we’ll remember most happened in the hours between the official programming — when we had the chance to get to know and learn from our fellow delegates.” |
About CUESA
CUESA (Center for Urban Education about Sustainable Agriculture) is dedicated to growing thriving communities through the power and joy of local food. Learn More »