Title: Discovering the Sweet Joy of Lingonberries at Volendam, Netherlands
Volendam, Netherlands, is a charming wooden stilt village that evokes a sense of fairytale-like wonder, especially during the summer season. Amidst the narrow canals, colorful fisherman’s houses, and quaint shops, lies the delightful discovery of lingonberries, a sweet-tart delicacy that can be savored in all its glory. In this article, we’ll uncover the secrets of lingonberries and explore the experience of enjoying them in the historic waterside city.
Volendam’s Lingonberry Heritage
Lingonberries, also known as cranberries, share a special connection with Holland’s West Frisian region, where Volendam is situated. During the 17th-century, the Dutch East India Company introduced lingonberry seeds from Scandinavia and Asia, which quickly propagated throughout the region. Due to the country’s dense clay soil, lingonberries thrived, fostering a rich tradition of bush-farming and harvesting berries.
In Volendam, the lingonberries have become an integral part of the local culture and economy. The village offers an array of lingonberry-based products, like jams, preserves, powders, and even cosmetic items. Visitors can stock up on these tasty gifts or enjoy them on site, surrounded by the picture-perfect scenery.
Gathering and Harvesting Methods
Volendam residents employ traditional methods to sustainably gather and harvest these delicate fruits. The lush bushes are carefully hand-weeded to ensure the fruits are protected from pests, diseases, and excessive fungal growth. Harvesting primarily occurs in late summer (August to September), while ripe lingonberries are sought after for their sweet juice and firm texture.
Harvesting is a local event, with many communities and family-run farms coordinating efforts to collect the annual yield. The berries are collected in baskets, known as “lingonpers”, and transported to village markets, where they’ll be sold fresh or traded for other local produce, such as cheese, smoked fish, and bread.
Download image lingonberries at Volendam, Netherlands [OC] [3972×2412] by Amazing-Edu2023