Raspberry

When are raspberries in season?

Late June to early September. If you've got a garden or allotment, raspberries are quite easy to grow, read more at www.gardenersworld.com.

Learn how to grow your own raspberries from the experts at Gardeners’ World.

Choose the best raspberries

Look for bright, evenly coloured and plump berries, with no mushy or mouldy examples. If you're buying a punnet, check that the underside isn't stained - that means the lower level of berries has been crushed.

Avoid raspberries with their hulls still attached; that indicates that they were picked before they were ripe, so their flavour will be tart.

Get more ideas from our raspberry recipe collection and read our top 10 things to do with raspberries.

How to prepare raspberries

As raspberries are very delicate, try not to wash them unless absolutely necessary. Just pick off any bits of stalk or leaf. If they must be washed don't put them directly under the flow of the tap, as they'll disintegrate. Gently pat them dry with kitchen paper.

How to store raspberries

Arrange them on a layer of kitchen paper on a plate, so that they don't crush each other, and store them in the fridge. Take them out of the fridge an hour before eating, so that they're at room temperature. They are best eaten on the same day they were bought or picked.

How to cook raspberries

Serve with cream or ice cream. Use to make jam, tarts, trifles or cheesecakes. Use to make coulis, sauces for game or to flavour white wine vinegar.

Alternatives to raspberries

Try strawberry or blackberry.