Tips & Tricks on what & how to grow to ensure a successful growing season! In today’s class Jean Roman will discuss the best fruits, vegetables, and herbs to grow in your home garden, and how to care for them. She’ll share her wealth of knowledge on growing and how you can have a bountiful harvest. Roman will provide information on gardening in containers, raised beds, and traditional tillable gardens. Downloadable PDF will be provided to all attendees.
“It’s difficult to think anything but pleasant thoughts while eating a homegrown tomato.” ― Lewis Grizzard
Have you ever stopped to think about where your food comes from? Most of us are aware of the term “locally sourced,” but have you heard of the concept of a foodshed?
A foodshed is the geographical area where our food is grown, processed, and distributed. Understanding your foodshed can have a significant impact on your food choices and the environment. By choosing to support local farmers and businesses, you can reduce the carbon footprint of your food and ensure that you are consuming fresh, nutritious produce. In this article, I’m going to show you all the importance of understanding your foodshed and how it can positively impact your health, the economy, and the planet. So, grab a cup of coffee and let’s dive in!
A foodshed is the geographic area where food is produced, processed, and distributed. It includes everything from the farms and ranches where food is grown, to the processing facilities where it is packaged and prepared for sale, to the stores and restaurants where it is sold and consumed. The foodshed concept takes into account the entire food system, from farm to table, and recognizes the importance of local food production.
The size of a foodshed can vary, depending on the region and the type of food produced. For example, a foodshed for tomatoes in Florida may be smaller than a foodshed for wheat in the Midwest. However, the idea is the same – to support local food systems and reduce the amount of energy required to transport food long distances.
In addition to reducing the carbon footprint of our food, supporting local foodsheds can also provide economic benefits to farmers and local businesses. By buying locally, consumers can keep their dollars within their community, supporting small-scale farmers and businesses.
The Importance of Foodshed
Understanding the concept of a foodshed is important because it allows us to better understand the impact of our food choices on the environment and the economy. When we buy food that has been transported long distances, we contribute to greenhouse gas emissions and other environmental impacts associated with transportation. By supporting local food systems, we can reduce these impacts and support sustainable agriculture.
In addition to environmental benefits, supporting local food systems can also have economic benefits. By buying locally, consumers can support small-scale farmers and businesses, helping to keep money within the community. This can lead to a more resilient local economy and a stronger sense of community.
Finally, supporting local food systems can also have health benefits. Local food is often fresher and more nutritious than food that has been transported long distances. This is because local food is typically harvested at the peak of ripeness and consumed shortly thereafter. In contrast, food that has been transported long distances may be harvested before it is ripe and then artificially ripened during transportation.
How Foodshed Impacts Your Food Choices
Understanding your foodshed can impact your food choices in several ways. First, it can help you make more informed decisions about the food you buy. By understanding where your food comes from, you can choose to buy food that is produced locally and supports sustainable agriculture. This can help reduce your carbon footprint and support local farmers and businesses.
Second, understanding your foodshed can also help you make healthier food choices. Local food is often fresher and more nutritious than food that has been transported long distances. By choosing to buy local food, you can ensure that you are consuming fresh, nutritious produce that is free from harmful chemicals and preservatives.
Finally, understanding your foodshed can also help you save money. By buying food that is produced locally, you can often save money on transportation costs that are passed on to consumers. Additionally, local food can be less expensive because it doesn’t have to travel long distances to reach consumers.
Sustainable Agriculture and Foodshed
Sustainable agriculture is an important component of the foodshed concept. Sustainable agriculture is a method of food production that seeks to minimize the environmental impact of farming while also promoting economic and social sustainability. Sustainable agriculture practices include crop rotation, conservation tillage, and the use of natural fertilizers and pesticides.
By supporting sustainable agriculture, consumers can help reduce the environmental impact of farming and support local farmers and businesses. Additionally, by choosing to buy food that is produced sustainably, consumers can help promote sustainable agriculture practices and encourage more farmers to adopt these methods.
How to Support Your Local Foodshed
There are several ways to support your local foodshed. First, you can seek out local farmers’ markets and buy fresh, locally produced food. You can also look for restaurants that source their ingredients locally and support local farms.
Another way to support your local foodshed is to join a CSA program. By buying a share of a local farm’s harvest, you can support sustainable agriculture and receive fresh, seasonal produce.
Finally, you can grow your own food. Even if you don’t have space for a garden, you can grow herbs and vegetables in pots on your balcony or windowsill. By growing your own food, you can reduce your carbon footprint and ensure that you are consuming fresh, nutritious produce.
Foodshed vs. Food Miles
Foodshed and food miles are two related, but distinct, concepts. Food miles refer to the distance that food travels from the farm to the consumer. The concept of food miles has been used to raise awareness about the environmental impacts of transporting food long distances.
While food miles are an important consideration, they are not the only factor to consider when it comes to sustainable agriculture. The foodshed concept takes a more holistic approach, considering the entire food system, from farm to table. By supporting local food systems, we can reduce the carbon footprint of our food and support sustainable agriculture.
Examples of Successful Foodshed Initiatives
There are many successful foodshed initiatives around the world. One example is the “Farm to School” program, which connects local farmers with schools to provide fresh, healthy food to students. This program helps support local farmers and promotes healthy eating habits among students.
Another example is the “Community Supported Agriculture” (CSA) model, which allows consumers to buy shares of a local farm’s harvest. This model helps support local farmers and provides consumers with fresh, seasonal produce.
Challenges to a Strong Foodshed and How to Overcome Them
There are several challenges to building a strong foodshed. One challenge is the dominance of large-scale agriculture and the concentration of food processing and distribution in the hands of a few large corporations. This can make it difficult for small-scale farmers and businesses to compete.
Another challenge is consumer demand for convenience and low prices. Many consumers prioritize convenience and low prices over supporting local farmers and sustainable agriculture practices. This can make it difficult for local farmers and businesses to compete in the marketplace.
To overcome these challenges, it is important to raise awareness about the benefits of supporting local food systems and sustainable agriculture. This can be done through education campaigns, community outreach, and policy initiatives that support local farmers and businesses.
Understanding the concept of a foodshed is important for anyone interested in sustainable agriculture and healthy eating. By supporting local food systems, consumers can reduce their carbon footprint, support local farmers and businesses, and promote sustainable agriculture practices. So, the next time you sit down to enjoy a meal, take a moment to think about where your food comes from and how you can support your local foodshed.
“Cooking is about creating something delicious for someone else.” – Ayumi Komura
As you all should know by now, we love Italian food! We are always looking for new variations of old classics, and today’s recipe fits that bill. We of course put our own spin on this favorite, and I’m confident you are going to love it!
NOTE~ Unfortunately there was a glitch in the ending of the video, so to the end watch the second video below with the recipe! Thanks for understanding friends!
Our Favorite Recipes
Ingredients: Yields approximately 4 servings
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into sections
4 cups chicken broth
3 strips of bacon, fried and cut into 1 inch sections
To watch the final portion of my YouTube Video, click the video below!
1. Wash chicken breasts and cut into smaller sections~ first in half lengthwise, and then into thirds horizontally. You should end up with about 6 pieces per breast.
2. In a bowl combine flour and parmesan cheese, garlic salt, salt & pepper; blend well.
3. Take each piece of chicken and dredge in flour coating both sides evenly.
Reserve remaining seasoned flour.
4. In a large cast iron skillet, heat half the butter and infused olive oil.
5. Begin adding in the chicken pieces in a single layer; you may need to repeat this process twice depending on the size of your skillet. Remove cooked pieces onto a paper towel lined plate while cooking. Fry each side about 2 to 4 minutes depending on thickness. Be sure to check doneness by cutting into the center and when the juices run clear.
6. Place cooked chicken in a container and cover to keep warm.
7. Once all your chicken is fried add remaining butter, broth, lemon juice, shallots, capers, bacon, and garlic cloves and ¼ cup of the remaining seasoned flour into the skillet; blend thoroughly until there are no flour clumps and all the ingredients are well blended.
Once picatta gravy has thickened, cook for about 1 minute.
Once the gravy is done, serve over the chicken with mashed potatoes and your favorite vegetable! So yum!
PRO TIP: Precut your bacon into 1 inch sections and then fry! This makes it easier than trying to crumble it!
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Container Gardening with Herbs: Learn how-to make & grow an herb garden planter!
The container gardener is limited only by your imagination! Whether you have a large garden, raised beds, or the smallest patio or balcony, Jean will show you how you can reap a crop of herbs. It’s all in the harvesting friends! Today Jean Roman will showcase how you can create thriving herb containers you’ll be able to bring in during the winter as well, if you choose! Whether you are an experienced or novice gardener, this class will be loads of fun with tons of great information!
It’s strawberry season in Michigan friends! Join Jean Roman as she teaches you how easy it is to make homemade freezer strawberry jam! Recipe will be included. Roman will have her popular cookbook, Lovingly Seasoned Eats and Treats available at a discounted price for attendees today. Samples will be provided.
Easy & Delicious Pesto Sauce- How to make & preserve it! Jean Roman, Author, Podcaster, & Self-professed Master Gardener will teach you how to make her delicious & incredibly easy Pesto recipe, and how to preserve it so you can have it all winter long. She will share tips on how to grow & stimulate continued growth of your plants. Roman will have her popular cookbook, Lovingly Seasoned Eats and Treats available at a discounted price for attendees today. Samples will be provided.
Plan your fall garden now! Lettuces, spinach, kale, broccoli, & more!
August 5th, 2023
Did you know you can continue growing delicious, fresh veggies late into the fall? Well, you can even here in Michigan. All you need to know is the right crops to plant, and how to care for them. Join Jean Roman as she guides you through the steps of preparing for a bountiful fall garden.
Homemade Marinara Sauce- How to make & preserve summer’s bounty! Jean Roman, Author, Podcaster, & Self-professed Master Gardener will teach you how to make her delicious & incredibly easy Marinara sauce recipe from your homegrown tomatoes. Don’t grow your own? That’s ok, Jean will share how you can purchase large quantities at your local farmers market. She will have her popular cookbook, Lovingly Seasoned Eats and Treats available at a discounted price for attendees today. Samples will be provided.
Fall Garden Clean Up: 10 Step How-to Fall Vegetable Garden Clean Up
Cleaning up your fall vegetable garden is an important step in preparing for next year’s crop. By removing dead or diseased plants, clearing debris, and adding compost and organic matter to the soil, you can improve the health of your soil and reduce the risk of pests and diseases for years to come. Jean Roman will go over her easy 10 Step How-to Fall Vegetable Garden Clean Up.
This month I’ll be discussing how to source local food, the issues with locating it, and why it is so important to support our local farmers markets. Be sure to visit my Facebook Event Calendar & register so you don’t miss an episode!
May’s Lineup!
May 3rd, 2023
Walt Gajewski, Market Manager for The Farmington Farmers & Artisans Market!
If you are a regular listener, you all know I love to share the back story with all of you on how I know and met my podcast guest… and this one is really near & dear to my heart.
I met this guy over a decade ago during my Mennonite days behind my table at the Farmington Farmers & Artisans Market. He was a volunteer with the market and always was so happy & energetic about it. He had real passion is the best way to describe it. Of course that’s why we clicked! Our hearts were both in that happy place!!!
Are you a biking enthusiast? Podcast with Bike Dearborn Founder & Lead Biker, Tracy Besek
Join me today as Founder & Lead Biker for Bike Dearborn, Tracy Besek & I chat it up about biking safety, advocacy, and being a part of this great group!
This month’s focus has been on local food, and healthy life choices. I tend to focus a lot on farmers markets, but obviously there are so many other ways to invest in healthy life choices, exercise being another obvious one!
My guest today and I met almost ten years ago during my tenure in Dearborn with both the DDA and the Chamber of Commerce. We collaborated together with the city’s farmers market I managed… OK, yep I’m going to tie in the farmers market again, LOL.
5 Reasons to Support Your Local Farmers Markets: How they benefit people both health wise & the local community!
If there is one thing I’m passionate about, it’s local food & farmers markets! I was a farmer for almost 15 years, and most of that time a farmers market vendor. I know what it’s like to be on both sides of the table~ as a vendor, and a market manager.
My heart is most at home in the garden & the farmers markets. Today I will talk to you about my heart felt desire to inspire every person to shop at the farmers market. When you do you are supporting local producers, your local economy, help the sustainability of farmland, and so much more!
Maybe you’ve even been contemplating becoming a market vendor! Do you create, bake, grow, or develop something? Well, a farmers market might be your first step to a successful business start up. Farmers markets are great starting points for local entrepreneurs!
I want this podcast to inspire you… please let me know in the comments below if I did!
Let’s talk food advocacy with Michigan Farmers Market Association (M.I.F.M.A.), Executive Director, Amanda Shreve.
Food is Medicine! Join Jean as she chats it up with Amanda Shreve, Executive Director for the Michigan Farmers Market Association.
During the month of May Jean will be focusing on local food and how to source it, along with talking to professionals in the industry who fight the good fight advocating for fair food. Jean couldn’t think of a better organization to include than MIFMA~ Michigan Farmers Market Association and its wonderful Director, Amanda Shreve!
Amanda has been part of the MIFMA team since November 2009. She says, “I am passionate about connecting the public with agriculture and growing awareness of what it takes to produce our food supply in a safe, equitable and environmentally sustainable way. I recognize that farmers markets are a very visible and tangible way to establish, maintain and grow this connection.”
May 31st, 2023
Let’s talk about growing food with Dawn Green, Horticulturist & Owner of Dawn Gardens, LLC!
Join Jean as she chats it up with fellow gardener extraordinaire, Dawn Green! We’ll discuss the importance of raising your own food, and the joy & fulfilment it brings!
“Food, to me, is always about cooking and eating with those you love and care for.” – David Chang
This is one of our new favorites! After Dave & I experienced this at a wonderful restaurant, Mint 29 in Dearborn Michigan, we were hooked. This is so easy to do, I just had to share it with you… along with a bonus on how to make your own garlic infused olive oil.
Today I’ll show you how to roast a whole bulb, as well as cloves in olive oil to produce your own infused oil. So easy & so yum!
If you enjoyed this blog, please LIKE, Follow, Share & leave me a comment! I love your feedback~
Our Favorite Recipes
Ingredients: Yields 1 roasted bulb AND ½ cup infused oil with ½ cup roasted cloves
See ingredients & step by step below for both recipes!
Watch as I show you the finished product! Watch below at my YouTube channel on how to!
Roasted Bulb~ You will need:
1 whole bulb of garlic 1 TBSP extra virgin olive oil ¼ tsp pink Himalayan salt Parchment paper
Carefully cut the top of the bulb off, about ½ inch until you see the cloves.
Place on parchment paper and drizzle the olive oil over the visible clove; sprinkle with the salt.
Fold parchment paper around the bulb, and tuck underneath.
Place in a preheated 250 degree oven and bake for 2 to 3 hours depending on the size of the bulb.
To store: Place the bulb in a plastic container and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Infused Olive Oil & Roasted Garlic Cloves~ You will need:
Pre Peeled & packaged garlic cloves, about 4 of the bags. This is equivalent to about 4 bulbs of garlic
½ cup extra virgin olive oil ¼ tsp pink Himalayan salt
In a small baking dish, place the garlic cloves in a single layer; pour olive oil over top of them ensuring they are fully covered. Add more oil if needed.
Sprinkle with salt and bake in a preheated 250 degree oven for 2 to 3 hours or until mashable.
To store: Place infused olive oil in a container with lid and refrigerate for up to 2 weeks. Place cloves in a plastic container with a lid and store in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
Baste meats or veggies with your olive oil and serve cloves with steak or chicken or add to any vegetable dish!
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“The lesson I have thoroughly learnt, and wish to pass on to others, is to know the enduring happiness that the love of a garden gives. ” Gertrude Jekyll
Did you know rhubarb is a vegetable, not a fruit?
Rhubarb is a versatile vegetable, & its tangy flavor can easily be combined with the sweetness of strawberry, or left on its own! It is a favorite among gardeners and chefs alike, thanks to its unique taste and versatility in the kitchen.
Never tried rhubarb? Well, if you’re new to gardening or have never grown rhubarb before, you might be wondering where to start. Fear not! In this episode of Gardening 101, I’ll take you through everything you need to know about planting and caring for rhubarb.
From choosing the right variety to harvesting and cooking, I’ve got you covered. So whether you’re a seasoned green thumb or a novice looking to grow something new & different, this episode will equip you with all the knowledge and skills you need to grow your own delicious rhubarb. Get ready to add a touch of tangy goodness to your garden and your plate!
Watch my YouTube video how-to on How to Grow & Care for Rhubarb, along with some Bonus Recipes, click below~
How’d you like the video? Give you your thoughts & feedback in the comments, & be sure to let me know if you have any additional tips & tricks on How to Grow & Care for Rhubarb!
Check out my video on How to Properly Harvest Rhubarb at my YouTube Channel below~
Did you come back for some Rhubarb recipes? Click these links for some great recipes!
“In our society growing food ourselves has become the most radical of acts. It is truly the only effective protest, one that can ―and will ― overturn the corporate powers that be. By the process of directly working in harmony with nature, we do the one thing most essential to change the world ― we change ourselves.” ― Jules Dervaes
Strawberries are a really easy & delicious fruit for the home gardener to grow! Even if you don’t have a garden, you grow these beauties in a container. You may not be able to overwinter them if you live where the snow flies, but in warmer climates, you bet you can.
Strawberries are also a fun thing to have the kids help you grow… and boy oh boy, do they love the harvest. I’ll be sharing with you my recipe for Homemade Freezer Strawberry Jam at my blog today as well, so be sure to head over there for more on strawberries!
“Cooking is not difficult. Everyone has taste, even if they don’t realize it. Even if you’re not a great chef, there’s nothing to stop you understanding the difference between what tastes good and what doesn’t.” – Gerard Depardieu
This is one of Dave’s delish recipes… and the boys & I just love it. It is so simple, and yet so elegant! This is a recipe your whole family will enjoy!
Our Favorite Recipes
Ingredients: Yields about 6 servings of 4 chicken tenderloins each
3 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts sliced into thin tenderloin strips OR about 2 pounds of chicken tenderloins
4~ 8 ounce cans of cream of chicken soup
2~ soup cans of water
⅓ cup canola oil for frying
1 cup white all purpose flour
1 TBSP seasoned garlic salt
1 tsp pink Himalayan salt
1 tsp fresh ground black pepper
1. Heat oil in an electric skillet.
2. While oil is heating, put flour in a bowl; add all seasonings and blend well.
3. Have chicken washed and patted dry.
4. Bread each tenderloin in the seasoned flour mixture and add it into hot oil until all tenderloins are frying; cook for about 4 to 5 minutes on each side or until golden brown. Chicken does not need to be fully cooked. Remove chicken from oil onto a paper towel lined plate to drain excess oil. Pat with an additional paper towel to absorb excess oil.
5. Remove chicken from oil onto a paper towel lined plate to drain excess oil. Pat with an additional paper towel to absorb excess oil.
6. Remove any remaining oil into a heat safe bowl carefully.
7. Add soup and cans of water to the skillet; blend well until there are no lumps.
7. Return chicken tenderloins to skillet.
8. Cover and cook on 300 for about 30 to 40 minutes. Cut a tenderloin to make sure they are cooked and serve over rice.
9. While chicken is cooking in soup mixture, prepare your rice.
Serve with your favorite vegetable and some delicious bread!
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“Growing your own food may be one of the most powerful steps you can take for the health of yourself, your family, and your planet.” ― Lindsay Oberst (foodrevolution.org)
I often mention the fond memories I have of my childhood, and blueberries bring back so many of them. I clearly remember the blueberry season and my grandmother and mother purchasing a flat of them to freeze and make blueberry preserves… oh the smell that wafted through our home during those canning and preserving months.
My favorite dessert my grandma made was blueberries with cinnamon & sugar. Yummmm… and today, my children love it just as much! As soon as the boys see blueberries at the farmers markets, they look longingly at me with the, “are you getting them mom???” Of course I do. Now that my daughter is almost thirty with her own son, we have both introduced this delicacy to him as well!
Growing up I have also mentioned we always had a garden. Blueberries were not one of the things we grew, but it is something I grew on my farm. They are relatively easy to grow and care for, which is what we are going to discuss in today’s blog post!
Whether you’re a novice or seasoned gardener, this guide will walk you through the process of planting and caring for blueberries. From choosing the right variety to ensuring proper soil acidity and irrigation, we’ll cover everything you need to know to get started. So grab your gardening gloves and let’s get planting!
Blueberries are one of the healthiest fruits you can eat. They are packed with antioxidants, vitamin C, and fiber, and they have been shown to improve heart health, brain function, and digestion. In addition to being nutritious, blueberries are also incredibly versatile. They can be used in a wide variety of recipes, from pancakes and muffins to smoothies and salads.
But why grow your own blueberries? For one, they are much fresher and tastier than store-bought berries. You also have more control over the growing process, which means you can ensure that your blueberries are grown organically and sustainably. Plus, growing your own blueberries is a fun and rewarding hobby that can be enjoyed by people of all ages.
Choosing the right blueberry variety
Before you start planting blueberries, it’s important to choose the right variety for your location and climate. There are three main types of blueberries: highbush, lowbush, and rabbiteye. Highbush blueberries are the most common type and are suitable for most regions. Lowbush blueberries are smaller and more cold-hardy, making them ideal for northern climates. Rabbiteye blueberries are native to the southeastern United States and are well-suited for warm, humid climates.
When choosing a variety, look for one that is disease-resistant and adapted to your local climate. Some popular highbush varieties include Bluecrop, Jersey, and Duke. For lowbush blueberries, try Northland or Patriot. For rabbiteye blueberries, consider Tifblue or Brightwell.
Preparing soil for blueberry planting
Blueberries thrive in acidic soil with a pH between 4.5 and 5.5. If your soil is too alkaline, you can lower the pH by adding sulfur or peat moss. It’s also important to ensure that your soil is well-draining and rich in organic matter.
Before planting blueberries, prepare the soil by removing any weeds or debris and tilling the soil to a depth of at least 8 inches. If your soil is heavy clay, consider adding sand or perlite to improve drainage. You can also incorporate compost or well-rotted manure to add nutrients to the soil.
Planting blueberries – step by step guide
Once you’ve prepared the soil, it’s time to plant your blueberries. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get you started:
1. Dig a hole that is twice as wide and deep as the root ball of your blueberry plant.
Mix some peat moss or compost into the soil at the bottom of the hole.
2. Place the blueberry plant in the hole, making sure that the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil.
3. Backfill the hole with soil, tamping it down gently as you go.
4. Water the plant thoroughly, making sure that the soil is moist but not waterlogged0
.
Space your blueberry bushes about 4-6 feet apart to give them room to grow. You can also plant them in rows with about 8-10 feet between rows.
Watering and fertilizing blueberries
Blueberries need regular watering, especially during the first few years after planting. Water deeply once a week, making sure that the soil is moist but not waterlogged. Mulching around the base of the plant can help to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Fertilizing is also important for blueberries, especially in the early spring before new growth appears. Use a fertilizer specifically formulated for blueberries, or one that is high in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Follow the instructions on the package for application rates and timing.
Pruning and training blueberry bushes
Pruning is essential for maintaining healthy blueberry bushes and promoting fruit production. In the first year after planting, remove any flowers or fruit that appear to allow the plant to focus on establishing strong roots and branches.
In subsequent years, prune your blueberry bushes in late winter or early spring before new growth appears. Remove any dead or diseased wood, as well as any branches that are crossing or rubbing against one another. Thin out the center of the bush to improve air circulation and light penetration.
Training your blueberry bushes to a central leader system can also help to promote healthy growth and fruit production. To do this, select a single stem to be the central leader and remove any side shoots that appear below it. As the plant grows, prune back any lateral branches to encourage upward growth.
Harvesting blueberries
Blueberries are typically ready to harvest in mid to late summer, depending on the variety and location. Ripe berries will be plump and have a deep blue color. To harvest, gently pick the berries off the bush, being careful not to damage the plant or surrounding fruit.
Storing and preserving blueberries
Fresh blueberries can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. They can also be frozen for later use by spreading them out in a single layer on a baking sheet and freezing until solid. Once frozen, transfer the berries to a sealed container and store in the freezer for up to six months.
Blueberries can also be preserved by canning, making jam, or dehydrating. Canned blueberries can be stored in a cool, dry place for up to a year, while blueberry jam can be stored in the refrigerator for several months or in the freezer for up to a year.
Stay tuned for the next in this series, How to Grow & Care for Rhubarb with a bonus video of me showing you how to properly harvest rhubarb!!
Here is a super easy pie filling recipe! This recipe can be found in my cookbook, Lovingly Seasoned Eats & Treats on Page 305.
Ingredients: Yields filling for 1 standard pie crust. This is a goop type pie filling.
1 ½ cup water
1 cup white sugar
⅓ cup clear gel
1 to 3 TBSP jello to match the flavor of your fruit being used
4 to 6 cups of fresh, cleaned fruit.
Directions:
Mix sugar and clear gel in a medium sized stock pot; add water and mix with a whisk until well blended.
Heat on medium high until low rolling boil; it will instantly begin to thicken; add fruit stirring gently so as not to smash fruit. I use a rubber spatula; add Jello and cook until thick and bubbly.
Remove from heat & cool for about 5 to 8 minutes on a cooling rack; pour into a prepared pie crust of your choice.
You make a crumb topping or use another pie crust.
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For Dragonflies And Me 