In a pickle? In a jam? Sweet solutions...

Often at markets, customers ask me if I’ve always made preserves. I have to admit that before shifting to Mirboo North, the last jar of jam I’d made was in high school. And that, dear reader, was just a few decades ago!

“Did your mother do all this sort of thing (bottling deliciousness) and you learn from her?” Yes, my mum was a phenomenal cook, winning awards for many years for her beautiful bottled fruit. But that was long before I was of an age to help her in the kitchen.

When we signed the contract for the purchase of Strathmore Farm, we knew that there were plenty of fruit trees and berries, and the previous owners had a small business selling her produce and bottled products. So we knew we had a business opportunity if we wanted. What we didn’t know was how much the business would grow, and that it would become an almost full time job!

In the early days of cooking, I have to admit that sometimes it was hit and miss. We did an awful lot of reading, asking questions, and experimenting - a great way to learn. I am also in the second year of a Certificate III in Commercial Cookery. The syllabus may not contain much on making the type of products we sell, but nevertheless I’m learning so much and do enjoy eating what we cook every week!

We love making new recipes, especially from ideas our customers and friends give us. So, if there’s something you’d like to see on our shelves, please do let us know. You could be our taste tester!