Blackberries
A blackberry (not to be confused with a black raspberry) is one of the most delicious and delicate fruits of our Michiana summer. Blackberries last only a few days once picked, so most people eat the plump berries by the handful, freeze them or make them into jam.
Blackberries can also be a versatile and beautiful ingredient in your summer dishes. As a visual artist, I love the colorful transformation that happens when the berries are cooked, baked or smashed. The color changes from dull black to vibrant fuchsia, providing a stunning and flavorful addition to your table. Be prepared for your hands to turn a lovely shade of purple while preparing these recipes, and be sure to change out of your white shirt before diving in!
Selecting
Choose blackberries that are plump and completely black. Make sure there are no signs of mold or liquid bleeding from the berries.
Storing
Store blackberries in the refrigerator and use within 2–3 days. Wait to wash them until right before you plan to use them. They can be stored for months by freezing or canning.
Pairing
Allspice, almonds, apple, apricots, arugula, asparagus, avocado, bacon, balsamic vinegar, banana, bay leaf, basil, beef, blueberries, blue cheese, brie, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, butter, cabbage, cashews, cinnamon, cherries, chicken, chocolate, cilantro, cloves, coconut, cranberries, cream cheese, cucumber, duck, eggs, feta, garlic, ginger, goat cheese, grapes, hazelnuts, honey, ice cream, jalapeño, kale, lavender, lemon, lime, mango, maple syrup, melon, mint, mozzarella, mushrooms, nectarines, nutmeg, oats, onion, pancakes, parsley, peaches, peanuts, pears, peppercorn, pineapple, pistachios, plums, pomegranate, pork, potato, raspberries, rhubarb, ricotta cheese, rosemary, sage, shallot, sour cream, spinach, strawberries, sweet corn, sweet potato, thyme, turkey, vanilla, waffles, walnuts, white chocolate, yogurt.