originally published June 2016
I know, you're thinking this is a no-brainer—the business of how to freeze fresh strawberries. Pop some in a bag, tuck it in the freezer, and you're ready to go. In a way it really is that easy, but I find these few tips to be extra helpful to extend the strawberry season well beyond the last one is picked.
A few weeks ago, I read a tip at the farmers' market about cleaning strawberries. I'd never heard it before, and was curious to give it a try. The farmer suggested mixing 10 parts water with 1 part vinegar, then swishing the berries around to remove any dirt. It doesn't impart a vinegar flavor, and extends the shelf life of your strawberries. I found it to be quite successful, and have been doing so, instead of simple rinsing them with plain water.
Not every farmer will agree with this, and I'm sure a few you are raising your eyebrows, too. While in North Carolina this weekend, I overheard a farmer tell someone not to wash their strawberries, so go figure. Personally, I also like the idea of the vinegar solution from a sanitary perspective—I'm a major germaphobe. I wonder if there's enough vinegar to make any real difference? I say you should rinse (or not rinse) your strawberries as you see fit. To each their own, right?