How to Freeze Gooseberries

Pick ripe gooseberries near midsummer.

The tart gooseberry provides flavor to pies, jams and wines. The under-ripe berries are preferred for jam making, but the fully ripe berries are less bitter and best suited for use in desserts and beverages. Freezing allows you to store the gooseberries until you are ready to prepare them. Pick firm berries that have developed or nearly developed their full color. Freeze the berries soon after harvest so they don't suffer a decline in flavor or quality.

Things You'll Need

• Bowl
• Colander
• Tray
• Wax paper
• Storage bags

Instructions

1. Place the gooseberries in a large bowl. Sort the berries, removing any attached stems and crushed berries.

2. Fill the bowl with cool water. Swish the berries around with your hand. Skim off any stems or blossoms that float to the surface of the water.

3. Pour the gooseberries into a colander. Rinse under cool water. Pat the berries dry with a clean towel.

4. Line a tray or pan with wax paper. Spread the gooseberries out on the lined tray in a single layer.

5. Set the tray in the freezer. Freeze the gooseberries for four to eight hours, or until they are frozen solid.

6. Transfer the frozen gooseberries to a freezer storage bag. Press the air out of the bag and seal it closed. Return the bag to the freezer until you are ready to use the gooseberries.

Tips & Warnings

• Store gooseberries in the freezer for up to two years.

References

• University of Alaska; Gooseberries; Lynn Hansen; August 2010
• National Center for Home Preservation; Freezing Gooseberries; Elizabeth L. Andress, et al.; 2006