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Lyman Orchards
Pick Your Own
Jostaberries
A little bit tart, a little bit sweet, and a tad tangy, Jostaberries are a cross between a gooseberry and a black currant. We are the only commercial grower of Jostaberries in the Northeast.
In appearance, Jostaberries resemble a gooseberry, with the deep purple (almost black) coloring of the black currant.
Availability: Early July - Mid July
Season
Jostaberries ripen at Lyman Orchards about mid-July. The season lasts only two weeks, so don't delay, or you'll miss this delicious treat!
Choosing
Select berries that are dark purple, nearly black in color. They should be firm to the touch.
Storing
Gently wash freshly picked berries and drain. They can be kept up to one week in the refrigerator in a plastic container.
Freezing
Jostaberries hold up well to freezing. Simply wash the berries, drain and pat dry. Place berries single layer on a cookie sheet and freeze. After they are frozen, berries can be placed in a plastic container or bag and returned to the freezer.
Recipes
Jostaberry Jam
Ingredients
8 Cups Jostaberries
1/2 Cup Water
6 Cups Sugar
1 Tablespoon Butter
Directions
- Place jostaberries and water in a large, heavy pan. Bring to a boil, reduce the heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
- Add the sugar to the pan and stir over low heat until the sugar has dissolved. Add butter if desired to prevent foaming.
- Bring the mixture to a boil and cook for about 8 minutes, or until the jam reaches the setting point (220 degrees F).
- Remove the pan from the heat. Leave to cool for 5 minutes.
- Pour the jam into warmed clean jars and seal. Heat treat sealed jars in a water bath at 200 degrees F for 10 minutes. Cool completely, then label and store the jam in a dark, cool place.
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