Harvest of the Month: Blackberries
The height of summer is also the height of blackberry season. Unlike other fruits, though, eating out-of-season blackberries won’t just be unsatisfying, it could have “devilish” consequences.
Blackberry season has a hard stop in the fall. The exact date of that deadline depends on individual countries and cultures (it’s usually in late September or early October), but one theme is common: Legends suggest that the specific date is when Satan does some evil thing to the blackberry.
The facts behind the deadline are much more earthly: In the fall, blackberries become susceptible to deterioration and mold and can literally make you sick.
Eaten in summer, of course, blackberries are not only good, but good for you. Actually clusters of tiny, individual fruits packed with Vitamin C, fiber and antioxidants, blackberries are best if picked or chosen when plump, firm and fully black. After bringing the berries home, refrigerate them, but avoid packing them tightly into containers. Instead, wash them and then spread them loosely on a paper towel in a larger container, where they’ll be good for a few more days.
Of course, blackberries can be frozen for later use – a step that seems certain to ward off any devilish effects of eating them after a “cursed” date.
Try July’s Recipe: Blackberry Crumb Bars
Tags: food, harvest of the month, recipes