Wild Blueberry Pierogi
Wild Blueberries were part of my childhood in Poland where I was born. Here in Canada, approximately 95 million kg of wild blueberries are produced annually, and half of the production occurs in Canada (in the Atlantic Provinces, the Lac St-Jean region and the Northern shore of Quebec). The markets for the Canadian crop are approximately 20% domestic and 80% international. This is the place to live if you are a blueberry picking and eating addict like me. It is a pretty healthy addiction, isn’t it?
I traveled great distances in Canada to experience the most rewarding feeling of harvesting blueberries. I highly recommend to try exploring these hidden gems within our breathtaking Canadian countrysides.
Blueberry in Oxford, NS, Canada is a charming small town that holds an enchanting allure for locals and visitors alike. Known as the "Blueberry Capital of Canada," this picturesque town is nestled in the middle of rolling hills and lush farmlands, creating the perfect environment for the cultivation of juicy, plump blueberries. Each summer, the town comes alive with an array of blueberry-centric celebrations and festivals, where one can indulge in a variety of blueberry-infused treats and dishes. From the delectable blueberry pies to the refreshing blueberry lemonades, the local culinary scene captures the essence of this sweet and tangy fruit. Beyond its gastronomic delights, Blueberry in Oxford offers breathtaking scenery, outdoor activities, and warm hospitality, making it an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts and food lovers alike. On August 19 - September 4, 2023 communities throughout Central Nova Scotia will celebrate the Wild Blueberry Harvest Festival with plenty of opportunities to enjoy a "Taste of the Festival" at local food and beverage establishments, Farmers' Markets, events, and community venues throughout the region.
The Berrylicious Fruit Farm is my recent discovery of the most spectacular blueberry farm is near Woodstock, ON.
Located just outside of the vibrant town of Burgessville, ON, Berrylicious Fruit Farm is a haven for fruit enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. This family-owned farm spans over acres of picturesque landscape, showcasing row upon row of lush berry bushes. From juicy blueberries to sweet raspberries and beloved elderberries, visitors can indulge in the flavors of summer while enjoying Marian’s Country Tea”High Tea with a Country Twist” or Berrylicious Picnics in the Patch . The farm is not only a destination for picking your own delicious berries but also offers various family events and educational programs to engage visitors in the art of fruit cultivation. With its welcoming atmosphere and commitment to sustainability, Berrylicious Fruit Farm is not just a place for picking fruits, but a place to savor the joys of nature and learn about the wonders of fruit farming.
The Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean region in Quebec, Canada is known as the heart of wild blueberries, and it was here that we embarked on an unforgettable culinary adventure in August 2021. With baskets in hand, we ventured into the picturesque blueberry fields, surrounded by the stunning landscape of this magnificent region. The air was filled with the sweet aroma of ripe berries, and we eagerly plucked the vibrant blue jewels that nature had generously provided. With the sun shining on our backs, we picked a bountiful harvest of wild blueberries, brimming with flavor. As the day unfolded, we transformed our precious bounty into mouthwatering pierogies, a traditional Polish delicacy. The succulent blueberries delicately swirled in a sweet filling, encased in a tender, homemade dough. With each bite, we savored the taste of summer encapsulated in these scrumptious pierogies, a true testament to the beauty and flavors of the Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean region.
Picking Wild Blueberries in Rabka Zaryte, Poland
My childhood memories……..
If you find yourself craving a unique and delightful adventure, set your sights on Rabka, Zaryte in Poland, where nature's little treasure, wild blueberries, await. Nestled near breathtaking Tatra Mountains, this beautiful region offers an abundance of wild blueberries that will tantalize your taste buds and immerse you in an enchanting experience.
Rabka Zaryte is renowned for its lush forests and meadows, providing the perfect habitat for these delightful blue gems. As you embark on this pastoral quest, prepare to be captivated by the dense greenery and crisp mountain air that envelops the landscapes.
Venturing into the blueberry fields, you'll discover a visual and aromatic feast, as the vibrant hues of the berries pop against the lush backdrop. The thrill of hand-picking these succulent berries adds a touch of elegance to this gastronomic adventure.
Equipped with a basket or a bucket, you'll meander through the winding trails, carefully plucking the plump and juicy blueberries one by one. With each berry, a morsel of satisfaction will fill your soul, knowing that you are partaking in a time-honored practice that has been cherished for generations.
Not only will you enjoy the meditative act of picking blueberries, but you will also witness the untouched beauty of nature. The symphony of birdsong serenading you will compete only with the gentle rustling of leaves, creating an orchestration of nature's delights.
Once your basket is brimming with nature's bounty, take a moment to soak in the tranquil surroundings. Find a cozy spot under the shade of a tree or on a soft patch of grass, and revel in the sweetness of your labor. The sun-kissed berries burst with flavor, a gift from the land that has nurtured them.
For those who appreciate the art of gastronomy, the possibilities with wild blueberries are endless. From classic blueberry pies and crumbles to delectable jams and jellies, these berries can be transformed into culinary masterpieces that will thrill your taste buds.
Wild Blueberry Pierogi-Pierogi Jagodowe-Recipe
By Zosia Culinary Adventures | Date: July 27, 2023
Preparation Time: 1 hour
Cook Time: 5 minutes
YIELD: 50 pierogi
Ingredients:
500 g all purpose floor or type 500 (do not use bread floor)
1 cup warm water
1 large egg
500 ml fresh wild blueberries or from Berrylicious Fruit Farm or local farm near you ( or frozen berries)
toppings for cooked pierogi: fresh cream 18%, or make beurre noisette (browned butter), sprinkle with organic fair trade cane sugar or birch sugar as substitute
Instructions:
Sieve flour, and make a well in the middle of flour.
Add egg and gradually keep adding water. This method is the simplest, as it involves mixing all the ingredients together with a utensil, usually a spoon, fork or spatula, using a circular motion on the top of table counter.
Once all ingredients are combined, work the dough until is smooth.
Let the dough to rest for 30 minutes well covered with linen baking cloth.
Divide the dough into a few parts. Spread the first part of the dough on a floured table.
Use the rolling pin, roll into a thin piece of dough. Cut the dough using a glass or a round cutter.
Make sure to keep all remaining pieces of dough well covered.
Place one teaspoon of blueberries in the middle of each dough circle. Fold dough over filling, press edges together. Continue until you're out of dough and blueberries.
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.
Drop dumplings gradually in and cook for 5 to 6 minutes - until they start to float.
Remove pierogi from the pot with a slotted spoon. DO NOT OVERCOOK.
Make beurre noisette by cooking unsalted butter long enough to turn the milk solids brown while cooking out any water present in the butter. Often described as tasting nutty or toasty, it has a deeper, richer, more intense flavor than melted or clarified butter.
Drizzle pierogi with beurre noisette and some sugar or fresh cream and some sugar.
Bon Appetite! Smacznego!
