Blackberries

A small juicy purple-black berry with connecting droplets.

Varieties available are: Silvan, Kotata, Bedford Giant, Chesser and Loch Ness.

Blackberries are native to Asia, Europe, North and South America. They have been used in Europe for over 2000 years. In earlier times, they were mainly used for medical purposes and as a hedge in gardens.

The cultivated blackberry is a not too distant a cousin from the hedgerow berry.

Preparation and Use

The berries should be stored unwashed in the fridge. Before the fruit is eaten, wash it and allow it to reach room temperature just prior to consumption.

As generations of children can attest, blackberries are wonderful picked straight from the hedgerow. Blackberries are great in pies and crumbles either with apple or on their own. 

Bramble jelly is a popular preserve. A sweet blackberry sauce can be made to accompany meat or fish.

Health and Nutrition

5 a Day - 1 handful or 9 to 10 blackberries counts a s one portion towards 5 a day.

Blackberries are also a good source of folate or folic acid, beneficial for pregnant women.

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