It seems like such a waste to simply throw out the tops of strawberries….that’t why I have compiled a list of the best ways to use strawberry tops!
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I absolutely LOVE strawberry season!! Here in Michigan, strawberry season typically runs from late May to the end of June, and you better believe I am using those fresh strawberries the entire time. Whether making jam, pie, shortcake or simply enjoying those fresh, juicy berries.
Whenever I cut strawberries though, I hate tossing out the stems. Not only is there delicious berry attached to the stem, but the leaves themselves are actually full of vitamins. Strawberry leaves are full of vitamin C, iron and calcium. They are also great for relieving nausea, improving digestion and stomach cramps, as well as reducing inflammation.
You an always toss you strawberry tops in the compost bin and technically not waste them. But why not try to get all the health benefits you can instead?!
Looking for more summer recipes?
How to use strawberry tops
1) Strawberry infused water
This is a great way to use up those strawberry tops that have a little extra strawberry “meat” on them. To make, simply place 10-20 cleaned strawberry tops into a lidded container (I like using jars like these) and top with water. Let it sit in the refrigerator for a few hours before sipping (you can strain it if you’d like to remove the stems from the water, but you don’t have to). Add a little twist to your infused water by also adding a few cucumber slices or mint leaves.
2) Strawberry vinegar
This is a delicious way to incorporate that fresh strawberry flavor into things like a salad, a BBQ sauce, even a cocktail. To make strawberry vinegar, cover your strawberry tops with vinegar of your choice (white, balsamic, apple cider or white wine). Cover the mixture and allow it to steep for about a week, then strain the mixture and it’s ready to use. You can use this anyway you would normally use vinegar!
3) Strawberry syrup
Ok, this might be my favorite way to use strawberry tops. I should warn you though, it’s not the healthiest way to use them. Strawberry syrup is the perfect way to add a little strawberry sweetness to pancakes, waffles, ice cream, even iced tea or lemonade!
To make: In a bowl, combine the tops from two quarts of strawberries, 1 cup granulated sugar, and one tablespoon of lemon juice. Stir, cover, and place in refrigerator overnight to allow the contents to soften. Blend until smooth, and then strain through a metal sieve, scraping the sides of the strainer with a rubber spatula making sure to get all the delicious strawberries. This makes about 2-3 cups of syrup and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks, or longer in the freezer. YUM!
4) Strawberry leaf tea
Similar to other herbs and leaves, strawberry leaves can be used to make a healing tea. Strawberry leaf tea can ease nausea and diarrhea, improve digestion and settle an upset stomach. To make, place 3-5 strawberry tops in a cup and pour boiling water overtop. Allow the tea to steep for 5-10 minutes. You can add a hint of lemon or honey for sweetness, as well as other herbs as desired (mint, verbena, lavender and rosemary are a few ideas!). Drink the tea warm or allow to cool and use it to treat sunburn or inflamed skin. You can also dry the tops in the oven or dehydrator to persevere them for later use.
5) Livestock treats
Ok, this one may not be something everyone can do, but it’s still lone of my favorite ways to use strawberry tops. Growing up we had chickens and horses, both of which love strawberry tops! Other animals that would love this sweet treat include goats, cows, pigs, ducks and rabbits. This is a great way to use strawberry tops while sharing the strawberry season with your animals.
There you have it, my 5 favorite ways to use strawberry tops. I’d love to know if you try any of these ideas and what your thoughts are! Why waste such a vitamin-rich part of this delicious fruit?
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