This month’s farmer’s market find: blackberries

Mix the antioxidant-loaded fruit in ice cream, cobblers, or smoothies
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Photograph by iStockphoto.com

Blackberries are about as common at markets this time of year as they are along roadsides, though the big, juicy berries that farmers grow are far more tempting. While many farmers maintain only a row of brambles, Ronnie Mathis of Mountain Earth Farms in Clarkesville has set aside an entire acre. He harvests several varietals, but to the casual observer who buys just a pint or two a year, differences in shape or tartness typically go unnoticed.

Blackberries are loaded with antioxidants, so feel good about stuffing your face with them. A little sugar and some fat (from, say, vanilla ice cream) will tame the fruit’s bitter tannins. Try them in smoothies or paired with peaches in cobblers and jams.

Mathis sells them by the pint and quart (about $5 per quart). Find him at the Decatur and Piedmont Park farmers markets on Saturdays, and Grant Park Farmers Market on Sundays.

This article originally appeared in our July 2014 issue.

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