What Are the Benefits and Uses of Blueberries?

Blueberries are a nutrient-dense fruit. They contain vitamins A, C, E, and K, as well as minerals such as calcium, iron, potassium, and magnesium. They are also a source of antioxidants. Blueberries can be eaten fresh or dried and steeped as a tea. Their deep blue-purple color comes from anthocyanins, and they can be used in everything from breakfast dishes to desserts. Here is how to choose and store fresh blueberries.

How to Use Blueberries

Blueberries add color to drinks and desserts, along with a sweet-tart flavor. Add them fresh or frozen to yogurt bowls and fruit desserts.

How to Choose Fresh Blueberries

Choose firm berries with a deep blue-purple color and a thin, powdery coating on the surface; this natural bloom is a sign of freshness and should remain until the berries are washed. Remove any wrinkled, soft, or moldy berries, and check for liquid at the bottom of the container, which can indicate spoilage. Berries of similar size are also more likely to cook and distribute evenly.

How to Store Blueberries

Refrigerate blueberries before washing them. Washing removes their natural protective coating and can speed spoilage. Blueberries washed just before eating can keep for about 1 week. To freeze them, wash and dry them thoroughly, arrange them in a single layer on a tray, and freeze them before transferring them to a bag. This helps keep the berries from sticking together. Blueberries left at room temperature may start to soften within a few hours, so refrigerate them as soon as possible after shopping.

How to Use Blueberries in Cooking

Add fresh or frozen blueberries to breakfast oatmeal or yogurt. If adding them to cake, muffin, or pancake batter, toss them lightly with flour to help keep them from sinking as they bake. To make jam or sauce, simmer the berries with sugar until thickened. Blueberry sauce can also accompany red meat and game; simmer the berries with a little sugar and vinegar, then mash them for a sweet-tart sauce.

How to Use Dried Blueberries

Dried blueberries have a more concentrated sweet flavor than fresh berries and are often used in granola, muesli, and cookie dough. Store them in an airtight jar in a cool, dark cupboard. If kept away from moisture, they keep for up to a year; the warmer the storage spot, the shorter that time. Soaking dried berries in lukewarm water for a few minutes before using them can give baked goods a softer texture.

What Flavors Pair Well With Blueberries?

Blueberries’ sweet-tart balance pairs well with lemon zest and vanilla. They also go well with almond and oat textures in breakfast dishes, and make a classic salad pairing with goat cheese and walnuts.