Our family looooves blueberries, especially the little Piggy Wiggy.
I probably don't have to mention all the pluses of eating blueberries... all the antioxidants, fiber, and vitamin C? One of the best super foods you can eat.
Right now, blueberries are at their peak... and cheapest!
The problem most people have is that they can't eat 5 cartons of blueberries in a week.
And wouldn't it be nice to make those $1.65/carton berries last all summer?
Well, that's my plan.
Here's a quick and super simple way to freeze your own blueberries.
Here's what you'll need:
- Cookie sheet or flat tray
- Freezer bags
- A freezer :)
#1. Pick through and toss the bad ones (usually if you picked them yourself).
#2. Lay them out in a single layer on a cookie sheet.
#3. Freeze them (I leave them in there for a good 24 hours).
#4. Stick them in a freezer bag (better if you have those vacuum sealer bags). Make sure you get as much air out as possible to prevent freezer burn. Try sticking a straw in the corner, sealing it as tightly as possible up to the straw, then suck the leftover air out. Quickly remove the straw and seal.
#5. It's recommended to store for up to 3 months, so make sure to label your bag with the date.
As for washing, you have two choices: wash before or after freezing.
Before: Wash and drain in a colander. Let stand at least 10 minutes to dry. If necessary, pat any leftover water with a paper towel.
Any remaining water will make the blueberries stick together after frozen (which isn't that big of a problem. they should break apart pretty easily) and might cause some freezer burn. Also? Washing before gives the blueberries a tendency to get a little mushy when thawing.
After: Most people prefer to wash their berries after freezing, just to minimize the possibility of freezer burn.
Sometimes, if you're lucky, you can find them pre-washed (particularly if they're organic).
It's totally up to you. I washed mine before freezing, and I haven't had a problem. But my little guy is used to mushier blueberries from the frozen kind you buy at the store, so he doesn't care.
And that's it!
This process works for any kind of berry, actually.
Once you're done?
Give some of these blueberry treats a try!
(Weight Watcher's friendly!)
Need a gluten-free option?
Try these!
