Too many blueberries? Impossible! Blueberries are a popular summer fruit, known for their sweet flavor and provide fiber, antioxidants and vitamins C and K. Preserving blueberries at home is a great way to enjoy them year-round. The United States Department of Agriculture provides science-based recommendations to ensure safe and effective food preservation. Search the Center for Home Food Preservation (nchfp.uga.edu) to find approved preparation and processing times.

Freezing

Blueberries are the only fruit we do not wash before freezing. According to the USDA, washing blueberries before freezing them toughens the skin. So, brush off any soil, remove any stems and freeze in a freezer-proof container. A great way to freeze them is the home method of “flash freezing.” Lay the berries in a single layer on a baking tray and freeze. Store in a freezer-proof bag and dip out the amount you need. Wash them before you use them. Properly frozen blueberries can last up to 12 months.

Canning

Because they are a high-acid fruit, blueberries can be canned in water, juice or light syrup using a water bath canner. Search the website to find processing times for berries, pie fillings, syrup and jams / jellies. Approved recipes provide the correct balance of acidity, sugar and processing time to prevent spoilage and to make the jams and jellies the thickness you need. When using low-sugar recipes, keep in mind that sugar is a preservative and you may want to can in smaller jars. Once they are opened, they do not keep as long as full-sugar recipes. Store them in a cool, dark place for up to 12 months.

Drying

Blueberries have tougher skin and dehydrating them at home requires special steps. Berries should be plunged into boiling water for 15 to 30 seconds, then placed directly into ice water. Doing this ensures the berries will dry more evenly. They should be drained and dried on paper towels. The drying process will take 24 to 36 hours in a dehydrator. When they are completely dried, they can be stored in an airtight container in a cool and dark place. Their concentrated flavor makes a great addition to salads and on-the-go snacks.

Conclusion

With USDA-approved preservation methods like freezing, canning, drying and making preserves, blueberries can be enjoyed long after the harvest season. Having blueberries year-round means you can never have too many blueberries during blueberry season.