To enjoy fresh berries at their finest, they need a bit of extra care.
Learn how to choose, clean, and store berries for the best flavor possible.
An abundant supply of fresh berries might be one of the best parts of summer.
Credit: Kritsada Panichgul
Once you know how to freeze berries, you could make a mouthwateringstrawberry dessertin the middle of winter.
Berries are best when the weather is warm.
When you’re buying, choose the ones that are plump, tender, and bright in color.
Credit: Kritsada Panichgul
Avoid containers that are damp or stained, which might be signs of overripe or bruised fruit.
Remove and discard any moldy or mushy berries, so the mold won’t spread.
If you’re picking orgrowing your own, select berries that separate easily from their stems.
Credit: Peter Krumhardt
Unlike some fruits, berries generally don’t ripen or get sweeter after picking.
Heaping them on top of one another can crush them.
How to Wash Berries
It’s important towash all fresh producebefore you enjoy it.
Credit: Marty Baldwin
Instead, place the berries in a colander and dip them in a bowl of cold water.
Gently swish the colander in the water, then allow the berries to drain.
Rinse them in plain water, as above, so there’s no vinegar taste remaining.
Credit: Marty Baldwin
Test Kitchen Tip:For strawberries, you might want to hull the berries.
When you need berries for a recipe, you’ll know how many you have available.
If you’reusing strawberries, slice them.
Place a small amount of fruit in the container and sprinkle lightly with sugar.
Repeat layering, leaving a little space at the top of the container.
Cover and let the fruit stand for about 15 minutes, or until juicy.
Seal and freeze as directed above.
Be sure to label your freezer-safe containers.
you’re free to also learnhow to freeze peaches.
