I feared though, that there is something about the name "Pickled Blueberries" that is maybe just a little off-putting. And I certainly wouldn't want to off-put anyone, because this stuff is delicious! So we'll just call it Blueberries with a Bite, so that you can convince other people to try it too. Ok?
Yes, technically this is a quick, pickled blueberry compote. But there are spices. And sugar, too. It's all good, and if you put some on top of crostini with a slather of goat cheese, I'm sure you'll agree it's delicious, too.
This recipe makes about 1 1/2 cups of finished blueberries. It's a nice amount for keeping a jar for yourself and to have another to share with someone. You can easily halve the recipe though, if you'd like to make a smaller batch just to try it out. It can be canned/put up as well, following standard canning practices. I prefer just to make a small batch and use it over the short term. It will keep well in the fridge for a couple of weeks.
How to Use Your Quick Pickled Blueberries
Blueberries with a Bite are perfect on crostini with goat cheese or aged cheddar. If you're adventurous, try some on a grilled cheese with a great old cheddar. A spoonful on top of grilled salmon is sure to be lovely, too.
Quick Pickled Blueberries
Ingredients
- 1 5-inch long cinnamon stick
- 6 whole cloves
- 6 whole allspice berries
- 3/4 cup red or white wine vinegar
- 1 1/2 lb. fresh blueberries (4 cups/1 qt.)
- 1/2 cup white sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
Instructions
- In a large non-reactive/non-aluminum heavy-bottomed pot (Dutch Oven size, as the mixture will bubble up considerably later on!), add vinegar and the spiced. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and then continue to simmer for about 5 minutes. Remove pot from heat and let it sit for about 30 minutes, with the spices still in the vinegar.
- Wash and pick over blueberries. Remove whole spices from the vinegar and discard. Stir blueberries and the white and brown sugars in to the vinegar. Return pot to stove and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Avoid stirring to aggressively to avoid crushing the blueberries. Once it comes to a boil, allow to boil undisturbed for about 5 minutes until thickened (you can swirl the pan a bit if you like to mix, but avoid stirring). Remove from the heat and let cool slightly.
- Using a slotted spoon (to allow the juice to drain off), spoon blueberries in to a jar. You should have brought a bit of liquid with each spoonful, but if not, you can add a bit of the left-over juice to the jar. Cover and refrigerate for 24 hours before using. Will keep refrigerated for a couple of weeks or you can can using standing canning practices.
Pamela says
I love anything blueberry. Need to try this soon! BTW I am obsessed with your ceramic platter with the writing on it. May I ask where you got that?
Jennifer says
Thanks Pamela. Isn't that a pretty platter? I got it as a gift from my sister, probably 5 or 6 years ago, but I'll ask her and see if she can remember where she found it :)
pamela says
Thanks Jennifer! I just found your blog. It's amazing. Your photos are beautiful and your food looks even better!
Jennifer says
Thanks so much, Pamela. I appreciate it :)
Sophie says
This seems like the perfect appetizer for my dinner party later this month! Something summery, but different. I think it will be a hit :)
Jennifer says
I think so too, Sophie. It was great with goat cheese and a nice old white cheddar. I garnished with a few fresh thyme leaves.
Katie @ Butterlust says
I am 100% intrigued by these blueberries!! The tartest blueberries in the pack are my faves so I'm thinking pickled blueberries may be right up my alley. A++ for creativity!
Jennifer says
Thanks Katie. I loved them and sounds like you would too :)
Laura (Tutti Dolci) says
I've never tried pickled blueberries but now I'm intrigued. What a wonderful appetizer idea!
Jennifer says
Thanks Laura. I was intrigued, too!
Gail @ A Healthy Hunger says
Fantastic! I absolutely LOVE this idea! Thanks!
Jennifer says
Thanks Gail. I loved it!
Karen - 2Teaspoons says
This looks delicious! I love tangy-sweet combinations. I bet this is fantastic paired with goat cheese! I think I may try it overtop plain greek yogurt too :-)
Liz @ Floating Kitchen says
Yum - this looks and sounds so good Jennifer! I can't wait to try it out! I love putting fruit spreads on sandwiches.
Jennifer says
Thanks so much, Liz. I think this would be great on a sandwich!