Blueberries, although not native to our country, have captured the hearts and tastebuds of many Filipinos. Who can deny the charisma of this fruit? Aside from its attractive dark purple color, the balanced flavor of tart and sweet makes blueberries delicious for jams, cakes, pastries, and fruit shakes.
Apart from their wonderful flavor, blueberries also contain essential nutrients that benefit the body. These are:
Dietary Fiber
A high-fiber diet helps maintain lower cholesterol levels that may aid in reducing the risk of heart disease and keeping the digestive system clean. Fiber also adds bulk to our diet, which may help us feel full faster.
Good Source of Vitamin C
Keeping our body’s immune system strong is a must these days. Vitamin C helps support the immune system. It is also necessary for the growth and development of tissues and promotes wound healing.
Vitamin K
Vitamin K helps the body regulate blood clotting and bone metabolism.
Manganese
Manganese helps the body process cholesterol and nutrients such as carbohydrates and protein, including fats, and convert them into energy that the body needs to perform daily tasks.
One cup of blueberries only has 80 calories. They can give you your morning boost, too, by simply adding them to cereals, oatmeal, and granola bars.
I have recently discovered U.S. frozen blueberries and they taste so good! It’s a fantastic alternative to fresh blueberries.
Did you know that U.S. fresh blueberries are only available from April to September? That’s the spring and summer seasons in the states. Luckily, U.S. frozen blueberries are available year-round.
Since the pandemic started, I have stocked up on frozen and canned food items so I wouldn’t have to go out all the time. Aside from the essentials, I always make sure there’s enough fruits and veggies, keeping in mind the shelf-life of said products.
Fresh fruits like mangoes and bananas tend to spoil easily, so I go for frozen fruits like strawberries and blueberries. You can keep them in the freezer for months and the taste is not affected at all.
Fun fact, frozen blueberries are just as healthy as fresh blueberries. They’re frozen straight from the farm, with all the good stuff locked in -- nutrients, freshness, and flavor.
I’m sharing with you this easy-to-prepare Blueberry Muffin recipe that you can whip in 30 minutes. It’s a fantastic snack or breakfast option.
I honestly think frozen blueberries should be a pantry/freezer staple. They come in handy for a variety of dishes. I personally love to use them when I bake, but you can also use them for savory dishes which I will try soon.
For best quality berries, go for U.S. frozen blueberries! Farmers Best Frozen Highbush Blueberries are available in the frozen aisle of supermarket outlets nationwide. Rustan's Supermarket also offer U.S. frozen blueberries with brands like Essential Everyday and Sunny Select.
For more tips, ideas and recipes, visit www.blueberrycouncil.org or like and follow U.S. Blueberries Philippines on Facebook and Instagram.
Watch out for my U.S. Blueberries giveaway. Prizes await three lucky winners!
Comments
-Anafe Compoc