The smaller, more intensely flavoured berries only grow on acid soils, on moors, heaths and some hilly woodland. This may explain why so few people are aware of them, as they aren't as abundant in the UK as they are in Sweden, where they cover up to 20% of the country.
Below is a link to the BRC Distribution map, showing the occurrence of Bilberry in the UK, this can give you an idea whether you're likely to have any near you.
BRC Distribution Map - Bilberry
These small berries can be tricky to pick in number depending on the year and how mature the plants are, and other environmental factors, I find its worth investing £10 or so in a berry picker such as in the photo below, which allows you to harvest with more efficiency. They can also be used on other types of berry and sloes etc. I collected 6 or 7lbs from my spot in North Wales over an hour of bimbling about the other day in the sunshine.
I prefer to eat my bilberries fresh, with yogurt, or topping other deserts or cereal, porridge etc, but they are also excellent cooked, whereas blueberries often just go a bit mushy.
They make one of the best home made wines and also jams, and can be used in place of blueberries in cakes and pies.
Below is a link to a Bilberry pie recipe I like and is fairly quick and easy to make. I tend to freeze any bilberries I cant eat right away, which is perfect if you plan to cook them.
Bilberry Pie Recipe
Bilberries, are super healthy. They help regulate your blood sugar and can help individuals with diabetes. They improve blood flow, aid in digestion and help prevent urinary tract infections and cystitis. They are also extremely high in vitamins and other nutrients we need to process our other foods.
So if you live near an area where bilberries grow, now is the season, get picking!
No comments:
Post a Comment