Strawberry Sauce
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of strawberry sauce, a versatile topping that can enhance desserts, pancakes, and even savory dishes. This simple recipe is a delightful way to bring the taste of fresh strawberries to your table. Whether drizzled over ice cream or used in baked goods, this sauce adds a burst of color and flavor that’s hard to resist. Get ready to impress your guests with this easy yet elegant sauce!
Ingredients
– 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– A pinch of salt
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe yields approximately 2 cups of strawberry sauce, perfect for 4-6 servings. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, and cooking time is around 15 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Based on a serving size of 1/4 cup, this strawberry sauce contains approximately 70 calories, 0g fat, 18g carbohydrates, 15g sugars, and 1g fiber. This is for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Rinse the strawberries under cold water and pat dry.
2. Hull and slice the strawberries into halves.
3. In a medium saucepan, combine the strawberries, sugar, and a pinch of salt.
4. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring gently until the sugar dissolves.
5. Once the strawberries start to release their juices, add lemon juice.
6. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low.
7. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
8. Use a fork or potato masher to mash the strawberries to your desired consistency.
9. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
10. Allow the sauce to cool before serving or storing.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute fresh strawberries with frozen strawberries if fresh ones are unavailable. Just ensure to thaw them first and drain excess liquid. For a healthier option, consider using honey or maple syrup instead of granulated sugar.
Serving and Pairings
This strawberry sauce pairs wonderfully with vanilla ice cream, pancakes, waffles, and cheesecake. It can also be drizzled over yogurt or used as a filling for pastries, enhancing both flavor and presentation.
Storage and Reheating
Store the strawberry sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. It can also be frozen for up to three months. To reheat, simply warm it in a saucepan over low heat until it reaches your desired temperature.
Cooking Mistakes
- Using overripe strawberries can result in a mushy sauce.
- Not dissolving the sugar completely may leave a gritty texture.
- Cooking on high heat can cause the sauce to burn.
- Skipping the lemon juice can make the sauce overly sweet.
- Not mashing the strawberries enough may yield a chunky sauce.
Helpful Tips
- Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor.
- For a thicker sauce, simmer longer to reduce it further.
- Add a splash of balsamic vinegar for a unique twist.
- Serve warm or cold, depending on your preference.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries for this sauce?
Yes, frozen strawberries can be used, but make sure to thaw them and drain excess liquid before cooking. The flavor will still be delicious!
How long does strawberry sauce last?
Stored in the refrigerator, strawberry sauce will last about a week. If frozen, it can last up to three months without losing quality.
Can I make the sauce sugar-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute sugar with natural sweeteners like stevia or erythritol for a sugar-free version.
Is this sauce suitable for canning?
While you can can strawberry sauce, it’s important to follow safe canning practices to ensure it is preserved correctly and safely.
What can I add to enhance the flavor?
Consider adding herbs like mint or basil, or spices like cinnamon for a unique flavor twist that complements the strawberries beautifully.
Conclusion
Strawberry sauce is a delightful addition to many dishes, offering a sweet and tangy flavor that can elevate your culinary creations. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, this sauce is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy it fresh, and feel free to experiment with flavors for a personal touch!
Strawberry Sauce
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh strawberries hulled and halved
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
Instructions
- Rinse the strawberries under cold water and pat dry.
- Hull and slice the strawberries into halves.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the strawberries, sugar, and a pinch of salt.
- Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring gently until the sugar dissolves.
- Once the strawberries start to release their juices, add lemon juice.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low.
- Cook for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Use a fork or potato masher to mash the strawberries to your desired consistency.
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
- Allow the sauce to cool before serving or storing.
