Berries
Berrylicious Bites
Raspberries
Raspberry (Rubus idaeus) is a delicious and versatile fruit belonging to the rose family (Rosaceae). Native to Europe and northern Asia, raspberries are now widely cultivated across temperate regions worldwide. They grow on perennial shrubs with woody stems and are known for their delicate texture, vibrant color, and sweet-tart flavor.
​
Cooking Tips for Raspberries​
-
Storing Raspberries: Store raspberries in the refrigerator and use them within a few days of purchase for optimal freshness. Avoid washing until ready to use.
-
Freezing: Raspberries freeze well and can be used later for baking or smoothies. Spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet before freezing to prevent clumping.
-
Pairing: Raspberries pair well with other berries, lemon, chocolate, vanilla, and cream-based desserts.
-
Balancing Sweetness: Adjust the amount of sugar when using raspberries in recipes to balance their natural tartness.
​
Strawberries
Strawberries (Fragaria × ananassa) are a beloved fruit known for their bright red color, juicy texture, and sweet flavor. They belong to the Rosaceae family and are cultivated worldwide. The plants are low-growing perennials with trifoliate leaves, white flowers, and runners that root to form new plants.
​
Cooking Tips for Strawberries
-
Storing Strawberries: Store unwashed strawberries in the refrigerator and use them within a few days. Wash just before eating to prevent moisture-induced spoilage.
-
Freezing: Freeze strawberries for later use by spreading them in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer bag. This prevents clumping.
-
Hulling: Remove the green tops (hull) of the strawberries before use. A straw or a hulling tool can make this task easier.
-
Pairing: Strawberries pair well with chocolate, mint, balsamic vinegar, basil, rhubarb, and various dairy products like cream and yogurt.
-
Balancing Sweetness: Depending on the recipe and the natural sweetness of the strawberries, adjust the amount of added sugar.
