Strawberries

Wild strawberries were a favorite of the Indians and early settlers in Missouri.  The cultivated strawberry was created by crossing these wild varieties with strawberries from Chile.  By 1900, Missouri was a leader in strawberry production.  Missouri produced nearly twice as much fruit as California in those days.  Strawberries were sold at the produce markets of St. Louis and Kansas City, and were shipped by rail all over the country.  Today, strawberries are commercially grown in Missouri primarily for local consumption.

Strawberry ice cream

Wash and hull 1 to 2 quarts ripe strawberries.  Mash and press through coarse sieve, add 1 cup sugar, and let stand 1 hour for sugar to form syrup.  Scald 3 pints of thin cream in a double boiler, add 1 cup sugar and a few grains salt.  When cold add 2 tablespoons vanilla.  Add the strawberry mixture and freeze.