UMaine Extension offers tips on preserving, preparing cranberries
With fall comes the arrival of local cranberries — a favorite at holiday dinner tables. Cranberries can be added to many dishes, including breads, salads, relishes, salsas, chutneys, soups, grain-based entrees and desserts.
As the fruit becomes available, it’s recommended to buy extra berries and freeze for later use. University of Maine Cooperative Extension publishes information to help find, grow, use, preserve and store cranberries, as well as a variety of other in-season fruits and vegetables in Maine.
Visit extension.umaine.edu to order or download bulletins to fit the season. November favorites include “Canning and Freezing Quick Guides,” “Let’s Preserve: Apples,” “Vegetables and Fruits for Health: Cranberries, Winter Squash and Pumpkins” and “Safe Homemade Cider.”
UMaine Extension educator Kathy Savoie recommends getting up-to-date information on the best methods, canners, jars and seals to ensure a safe result before preserving food. Recommendations are available from local UMaine Extension offices or by calling 581.3188; 800.287.0274 (in Maine). More information, including upcoming food preservation workshops and how-to videos, is available online.