Macerated desserts are simply fruit steeped in a flavored sugar syrup, wine, liquor, vinegar or citrus juice, usually for a couple of hours or overnight. During the process, the fruit becomes slightly softer, its flavor infused with spices, juices or wine. Fruit can be nicely complemented not only by a simple sugar syrup, but also by orange or lemon juice, wine, liqueurs and vinegar.
Any soft fruit, like bananas, mangoes or papayas, should be added at the end. Basil or mint leaves, orange or lemon zest and star anise will also add some zing.
Ingredients
- 4 cups ripe nectarines, sliced 1/4 inch thick
- 1 pint raspberries
- 1 pint blackberries
- 2 tablespoons good-quality balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- Pinch salt
- Pinch freshly ground black pepper
- 2 ½ cups whipping cream
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- 2 teaspoons fresh lavender flowers (optional)
- Zest of 1 orange
- Mint leaves for garnish
- Nutritional Information
Nutritional analysis per serving (4 servings)
651 calories; 47 grams fat; 28 grams saturated fat; 13 grams monounsaturated fat; 1 gram polyunsaturated fat; 56 grams carbohydrates; 11 grams dietary fiber; 43 grams sugars; 6 grams protein; 165 milligrams cholesterol; 126 milligrams sodium
Note: Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. Amount is based on available data.
4 servings
Preparation
- In a large nonreactive bowl, mix the fruit, vinegar, sugar and pinches of salt and pepper. Let sit uncovered in refrigerator for 30 minutes.
- Combine cream, sugar, lavender, orange zest and another pinch of salt, and whip until soft peaks form.
- Put fruit into serving bowls, and spoon a bit of whipped cream on top. Garnish with mint.
15 minutes
Dining and Cooking