Raspberry Abundance: Recipes and Solutions for Excess Fruit

I planted raspberries and it got out of hands, now I have about 10 kg per day. Here are some fantastic recipes and creative ways to deal with your raspberry surplus.

Dealing with Raspberry Surplus

The abundance of raspberries can be overwhelming. However, if managed properly, these surplus berries can become a delicious and versatile ingredient in many dishes. Here are some tips and ideas for preserving and utilizing raspberries.

Freezing Methods

One of the simplest and most effective ways to preserve raspberries is to freeze them. There are two primary methods: freezing individual berries and pureeing them for later use.

Freezing Berries Individually:
Simply pick, rinse, and lay a single layer of raspberries on baking sheets. Place them in the freezer until solid, then transfer to freezer bags or containers. These frozen berries can be used in a variety of recipes, from homemade jams to breakfast cereals.

Freezing Puree:
Puree your berries to make a versatile ingredient. This puree can be used to create smoothies, desserts, or even marbled into cheesecakes. It can also act like granita when frozen and served.

Frozen raspberries can also be added to yoghurt, ice cream, or served with muesli and yoghurt for an easy breakfast.

Exploring Raspberry-Based Recipes

Here are some creative recipes to make use of your raspberry surplus:

Raspberry Vinegar

For a unique take on traditional vinegar, fill a glass ceramic or stainless steel vessel with a gallon of white vinegar and a pint or two of raspberries. Cover and let it sit for at least a week. Strain the mixture into sealed bottles.

Usage:
This vinegar is perfect for adding to iced water, sparkling water, or salad dressings. However, avoid using it in cast-iron pans as it can react with the metal.

Additionally, you can swap raspberries with other berry fruits like blackberries, blueberries, or even diced peaches and apricots for pies, muffins, and other baked goods that don't require a puree.

Raspberry Infused Foods and Drinks

Jam: Make raspberry jam with the poured-wax seal to extend its shelf life. This is a classic way to preserve raspberries and can be used in a variety of baked goods.

Vinaigrette: Create your own raspberry vinaigrette and can pints of it for later use. This versatile dressing can be used on salads or as a marinade.

Powder: Dehydrate your raspberries to make a fine powder using a spice grinder. This powder can be used as an ingredient in desserts, or as a topping for sweets.

Mixed with Other Fruits: Raspberries can be swapped with blackberries, blueberries, gooseberries, and even diced peaches and apricots for making pies and muffins. You can use puree for mixing with fizzy water for refreshing summer drinks.

Involve Friends in the Solution

To prevent a surplus in the future, involve friends and family in the enjoyment of raspberries. Invite friends over for raspberry-based cocktails, or help share some of the plants in their gardens. This will not only reduce the surplus but also promote gardening and sharing within your community.

Final Thoughts

With these solutions, you can turn a surplus of raspberries into a delightful culinary experience. Make sure to explore different recipes and preservation methods to keep these delicious berries fresh throughout the year.