The arrival of berries signifies that summer’s right around the corner. And there’s nothing that says summer like our memories of family gatherings, picnics and parties with blackberry cobbler, pies and even smoothies. Although you can now get blackberries year round with imports coming from Chile and New Zealand, there is nothing like a fresh, homegrown blackberry. They are available from local farmers’ markets, farm
stands and pick-your-own orchards.

health benefits
Blackberries are low in carbohydrates and calories. They contain vitamins A and C, potassium, calcium and iron. They are full of antioxidants and also high in fiber. One cup of blackberries has 85 calories. They are a good general tonic and blood cleanser. Blackberry leaves may be used to treat a sore throat by pouring boiling water on them, allowing them to cool and then gargling with the liquid.

selecting and using the berries
All berries are highly perishable and to be handled with care. Do not rinse berries until ready to eat. Look for plump, unblemished berries. Avoid mold and decay, especially juice that has seeped on the bottom of the package. To store, sort on a flat surface on a paper towel. Try not to stack too high.

History And varieties
Wild blackberries didn’t begin to flourish in this country until the forests were cleared, when they had enough sunlight and began growing like crazy. They were first cultivated around 1825. You can still find many wild bushes in the countryside. Cultivation brought many new varieties: Dew, Bosen, Logan, Marion and Ollalie are all varieties of blackberries. They are part of the rose family and, when in bloom, they look like miniature rose blossoms.

recipe
Blackberry Smoothie

1 cup of blackberries
1 banana (fresh or frozen)
1 new, young coconut
protein powder of your choice
apple juice to desired consistency

Take the new, young coconut and plug the top with two holes. Empty the liquid into the blender. Using a large, sharp knife, cut open the coconut and scoop out the meat. Blend all of the ingredients in the blender until the mixture reaches the desired consistency.

Pamela Boyar has been working with organic farmers for 23 years. She started a fresh-pressed juice company in 1980 and in 1986 began distributing organically grown produce directly from the farmers to the restaurants in California. Committed to support and promote the small family farm, she’s currently the director of Westlake Farmers Market, which she established in 1997. It’s the highest grossing farmers’ market in Texas. To find out more, visit www.westlakefarmersmarket.com.