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 Lenny's Favorite TODAY!
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I just came back from a trip to Vermont and while I was there on business, we ran into so many vacationers enjoying the bounty of New England. One of the highlights for most visitors escaping the busy cites of the East coast is berry picking. This concept was completly foreign to me before moving to New England in the 90's from Oklahoma. What a fun outing for the family to experience together. Having berries available in the summer is a staple to North Americans. When I think of Blueberries, I think of Maine and Michigan. Both areas are large producers, but not the only ones growing this small purple fruit. Western Oregon, New Jersey, Florida and more are contributing to the cause.
Recently our local specialty store had organic blueberries on sale for $1.99 a pint. I couldn't resist and had to run up there and get 5 pints. I brought them home, but one in the refrigerator for immediant consumption with some whipped, sweetened, creme fraiche. The other four I put on sheet trays and put in the freezer (NOT WASHED). After about an hour I put them in zip-lock bags to keep them nice and odor free until I was ready to use them. Well, it has been a couple months and... they are all gone. I have used them in a berry pie, ricotta pancakes, muffins, coffee cake and even in a salad with feta cheese. If I had more room in my refrigerator, I would have gotten more.
I couldn't begin to write about all of the health benefits, but the most recent studies show how high blueberries are in antioxidants leading in the fight of free radicals that can cause cancers. Oh yeah, and there is the other stuff like they are loaded with vitamin C, fiber and manganese. Please check out this site for more nutritional information.
FUN, FUN and more FUN! Blueberry festivals take place all over the country. Coming up soon is in Marshall County, Indiana on Labor Day weekend and the Machias Wild Blueberry Festival in Machias, Maine August 20-21st. There are many that take place all over the country throughout the summer months. I can't think of a better food to celebrate!
"It happens every time, they all become blueberries"
Willy Wonka
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