Blueberries

 

SUPERSTARS OF THE FOOD WORLD

Fresh blueberries, including organically- grown blueberries, are a signature item for Dave's. Blueberries are considered a superfood and worldwide sales have grown accordingly. One of the most popular berries in America, second only to the strawberry, they are one of the tastiest fruits on the planet.

Blueberries are native to North America, growing in clusters on bushes that can rise as high as twelve feet with the harvest season peaking in July. They were introduced to Europe only in the 1930s and are now grown in the Southern Hemisphere as well. Today we are able to enjoy fresh blueberries all year round.

 

COOK'S SUGGESTION

The blueberry muffin is America's favorite muffin. When blueberries are baked into muffins, pancakes, or pies, their distinctive earthy-sweet taste is enhanced by the addition of pungent lemon zest. Cinnamon, too, is a natural complement to the flavor of blueberries whether they are cooked or mixed fresh with yogurt or cream. Try sugared blueberries slightly warmed (just until they start to pop) on buttered shortcakes with whipped cream or as an ice-cream topping.

 

HOW TO SELECT

Look for fresh blueberries that are plump and round, firm and dry. The skin should be smooth with a silvery surface bloom. Size is not an indicator of flavor. As with all berries, avoid those that look soft, shriveled, or misshapen, or have any signs of mold.

 

HOW TO STORE

Refrigerate unwashed blueberries in their original Dave's container and eat them within ten days of purchase. Rinse them just before using. Blueberries can be easily frozen for later use. Rinse and make sure they are dry before freezing.

 

NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION

The blueberry may be one of the healthiest fruits in existence. Government agricultural researchers have ranked the blueberry number one in antioxidants – the powerful substances that can slow the aging process and reduce the cell damage that can lead to cancer.

The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of blueberries have been associated with lowering cholesterol and with protecting against Alzheimer's, heart disease, macular degeneration, glaucoma, varicose veins, hemorrhoids, and a host of other maladies. With only 80 calories per cup and virtually no fat, blueberries are dynamos of vitamin C and dietary fiber. High in manganese, they get their unique blue color from anthocyanins, a phytonutrient which may reduce the risk of heart disease and other illnesses.