What creative uses are there for overripe berries?
Emma, Bradford
Sweet, juicy berries are a quintessential part of summer, but they can quickly become mushy. However, if there is no mold present, there are several options for using overripe berries. One great option is baking them. According to Philip Khoury, author of the upcoming book, A New Way to Bake, berries can be incorporated into delicious desserts like financiers, friands, a bakewell tart, or even a berry tart with crème patissière. As berries age, their tight and regular structure breaks down, but their flavor becomes sweeter as the carbohydrates transform into sugar. So, although the texture may be compromised, the baked result will be sweet and jammy.
By the same logic, a crumble is also a great choice. Combine the berries with apples, sugar, lemon juice, and cinnamon, and then get creative with the topping. You could make an oat-based topping with coconut oil for a breakfast crumble, or add sesame seeds, desiccated coconut or cornflakes for added texture. Don’t forget to incorporate some nuts as well. Flaked almonds complement berries nicely, while cashews or pistachios pair well with strawberries.
The abundance of summer berries also coincides with the desire for refreshing treats. Freezing berries is an excellent way to preserve their quality. Freeze them as they are, or cook them down into a compote with lemon or lime juice and sugar. For strawberries, consider adding cardamom and ginger, or sprinkle a chai spice blend on other berries. Store some compote in a jar to enjoy with breakfast alongside yogurt and granola, and freeze the rest in a zip-lock bag or ice-cube tray.
Of course, frozen berries also open up opportunities for desserts. Puree them before freezing to have ripe fruit available in the winter for soufflés, ice lollies, and sorbets. Another fun idea is a frozen berry negroni, which Billy Stock of The Rose Inn in Deal came up with. Serve vodka-strawberry lollies as a playful way to use fruit that may not be suitable for plating. Additionally, berries can be used to create shrubs or drinking vinegars, which can be incorporated into cocktails or soft drinks. Infuse vinegar, sugar, and water with equal amounts of berries, and let it sit in the fridge for a couple of days. Add herbs like lemon verbena, rosemary, thyme, or mint for extra flavor. Strain and enjoy!
When it comes to savory options, consider a raspberry dressing for salads or pickle berries or cherries. These pickled fruits can be enjoyed with leafy greens or paired with dishes like mackerel or roast duck. Combining fruit with meat or fish is a delicious and well-established culinary choice.
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