Today Matt Swaim, Sacred Heart Radio Sonrise Morning Show host, and I chatted about grapes.

GRAPES (John: 15:5)Grapes are mentioned throughout the Bible and grapes were a staple food. 

Mentioned more than any other plant in the entire Bible, the grape vine was very important culturally and economically in biblical times. Because of its centrality in everyday life, it is often used symbolically in Scripture.

John 15:5  – I am the vine, you are the branches – he that abide in me and I in him, brings much fruit; for without me you can do nothing.

So the people of Bible times understood when Jesus used grapes as a reference to obedience and a holy life.

Grapes were important both culturally and economically during Bible times. 
The soil had to be just right. There were lots of stones in the soil and they had to be removed. A hedge or wall was built around the vineyard to keep thieves out.I still have a wild grapevine climbing up the garage near the chicken coop. In late June, I gather the leaves and use them for making Dolmas, stuffed grapevine leaves, much as my Mom did and her ancestors, as well.  We also use the leaves as scoops for tabouleh. 

Grapes are supposed to be so heart healthy.The darker the color, the better the grape is for you. All grapes have lycopene, which is good for the prostate, motor skills, hearts, eyes and tummy. 

They’re especially good for someone who is feverish – the grapes provide nourishment and act as a refrigerant, cooling the body a bit.

REFRIGERATOR/FREEZER GRAPE JAM FROM GRAPES

Ingredients

1 pound red or dark seedless grapes

1-1/2 cups sugar

1/4 cup grape juice or water

1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions

Place grapes, sugar, grape juice, and lemon juice in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil and reduce heat; simmer 20 minutes or until grapes have softened. Remove from heat; cool slightly.

In a food processor or blender. Process mixture until nearly smooth. Return mixture to same saucepan and cook an additional 10 minutes or until mixture is thick and glossy, stirring occasionally.

Transfer to a jar or airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 months or freezer for 6 months.

REFRIGERATOR/FREEZER GRAPE JELLY FROM JUICE

Ingredients

3 cups bottled Concord grape juice unsweetened

5-1/4 cups sugar, measured into separate bowl

3/4 cup water

1 box SURE-JELL Fruit Pectin

Instructions

Rinse clean plastic containers and lids with boiling water. Dry thoroughly.

Measure juice into large bowl. Stir in sugar. Let stand 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.