Concord Grape Juice

1. 1

   Combine the grapes, water, and sugar in a large heavy-bottomed saucepan and bring to a slow boil, then simmer until the grapes have broken down, about 1 hour.

2. 2

   As they cook, gently mash the grapes with a slotted spoon to help them release their juices.

3. 3

   Your kitchen will begin to smell like grape-flavored bubble gum: this is a good sign.

4. 4

   Once the grapes have surrendered most of their juices and begun to look more like raisins, remove from the heat.

5. 5

   Using tongs or a slotted spoon, remove the grape carcasses and transfer to a fine-mesh sieve set over a large bowl.

6. 6

   Pour the juice over the grapes and press down on them to get every last bit of juice out of them.

7. 7

   (We compost the remaining skins, seeds, and stems.)

8. 8

   Use the grape juice right away, or store it in an airtight container in your fridge for up to 1 week or in your freezer for up to 1 year.

9. 9

   Concord grape juice is used in Concord Grape Jelly (page 190).

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.