Blueberry

Blueberries are small, round berries with a deep blue to purple skin and a sweet yet slightly tart flavour. When eaten fresh, they offer a burst of juicy sweetness with subtle floral notes. Over fire or when grilled, blueberries soften and their natural sugars caramelise, intensifying their sweetness and adding a gentle smoky depth that complements both savoury and sweet dishes. They hold their shape well when cooked briefly, making them ideal for use in glazes, sauces, or as a topping for grilled meats and cheeses. When selecting blueberries for BBQ or fire cooking, look for firm, plump berries with a dusty bloom on the skin, which indicates freshness. Avoid any that are shrivelled or leaking juice as these will not hold up well on the grill. Store blueberries in a breathable container in the fridge and wash them just before use to prevent spoilage. For longer storage, blueberries freeze well and can be used later in cooked dishes. In BBQ contexts, blueberries work beautifully when paired with rich, fatty meats such as pork or duck, where their acidity and sweetness cut through the richness. They are also excellent in salads with smoky grilled vegetables or as a component in barbecue sauces and glazes. Experiment with skewering whole blueberries or wrapping them in foil to gently roast over the coals to unlock their full flavour potential.

Blueberries are too delicate for direct heat but extraordinary in BBQ sauces and glazes — their tartness and natural pectin make them ideal for reduction sauces. A blueberry and bourbon BBQ sauce for pork ribs is exceptional. Fresh blueberries also work wonderfully in a cold slaw or salad alongside smoked brisket.