Nature's bounty

JULIE CASCIO

UAF Cooperative Extension Office

Nature's bounty is in full bloom, as berries are ripening, giving berry pickers ample opportunity to harvest them around the Valley. While nothing beats a handful of freshly picked berries, correctly preserving them can give Alaskans the chance to enjoy berries all winter.

The thought of ripe berries, freshly picked, makes my mouth water. Actually popping them in my mouth, warm from the sun, is a special treat. If I am fortunate to find a plentiful patch I pick enough for eating fresh and preserving for later use.

There are many uses for Alaska's wild berries. Fresh berries are delicious sprinkled over cereal, low-fat ice cream or low-fat yogurt. Blended with low-fat yogurt or other fruit, they turn into smoothies. Add berries to fresh fruit salad or to vinegar for a tasty salad dressing. Fresh berries can also be used in muffins, pies or other baked goodies.

Berries are a healthy treat. The dark red, purple and blue pigments that give berries their jewel-like color also contain anthocyanins, which are a type of antioxidant. Antioxidants protect the body from damage caused by free radicals. In addition, berries provide vitamin C, fiber, folate and potassium.

Berries should be preserved within a day or two for best nutrition and flavor. A quick way to preserve berries is to spread them out in a single layer on cookie sheets with low sides and place them in the freezer overnight. The next day, pour the frozen berries into freezer bags. This freezes the berries individually so they can be easily measured for use in any recipe.

Freezing breaks down the cell structure of the berries. The berries will produce more juice when thawed. When baking, add the frozen berries at the end of the recipe and stir them gently into the batter. The product may need a little extra baking time. Test with a toothpick to be sure it is done. When making pies with frozen berries, add about a third more of the thickener (flour, cornstarch, or tapioca) to keep the pie from being too juicy.

Jellied products are another way to preserve berries. Measure the exact amount of berries, sugar, lemon juice (if called for) and added pectin (if used) the recipe specifies. These ingredients are all necessary for a jell to form. If you prefer a less sugar or to use a sugar substitute, you will need to choose a modified pectin. Jellied berry products must be sealed with a two-piece canning lid and processed in a boiling water bath to prevent mold growth.