So, I’ve decided to use the grapes off the vines this year. Instead of Jam, which I never use all of, I’m making some grape juice concentrate to put in my protein shakes or to thaw and make grape juice with!
First I picked the grapes. It was warm and sunny and the perfume of ripening grapes in the crisp Autumn air is so refreshing. I don’t care if this doesn’t turn out, just picking the grapes is awesome! My dog, Barley, kept staring at me like I had some great treat. So I asked him if he wanted a grape. Yep, he did! MmmmmI didn’t know he liked grapes before this! He ate almost as many as me.
I brought them inside Washed them Took them off the stems. (While still tasting for quality, because it’s the best way.š) Put them in the crock pot on low and let them simmer for around 6 hours.When the grapes have given up their juice, just run the juice through whatever style strainer you have on hand.
Pour the finished grape juice into ice cube trays. Cover with plastic wrap and put in the freezer.When they’re frozen solid, pop them out and put them in a freezer bag to use whenever you decide you’d like some fresh grape flavor in your smoothie.
(On a side note: this juice stains the counters badly, but here’s how to clean the stains)
Put some thick cleaner with bleach on the stain. Scrub it in with a paper towel. Wipe it off first with a dry paper towel, then with a paper towel dampened with water. Dry and the stains are gone! Clean and ready for breakfast tomorrow morning.
