Coupes aux Fruits Rouges Recipe
Introduction
Coupes aux Fruits Rouges, or Red Fruit Cups, is a vibrant and refreshing dessert that showcases the natural beauty and flavor of red fruits. This simple yet sophisticated dish is perfect for summer days, special occasions, or as a delightful finish to any meal.
Ingredients
Fruit Mixture:
- Strawberries: 2 cups, hulled and halved.
- Raspberries: 1 cup.
- Red Currants: 1 cup (or additional raspberries if unavailable).
- Cherries: 1 cup, pitted and halved.
- Granulated Sugar: 2-3 tablespoons, adjust according to sweetness of the fruits.
- Lemon Juice: From 1 lemon.
- Mint Leaves: A few, for garnish.
For the Syrup:
- Water: 1 cup.
- Granulated Sugar: ½ cup.
- Lemon Zest: From 1 lemon.
- Vanilla Pod: 1, split and scraped (or 1 teaspoon vanilla extract).
Optional:
- Whipped Cream: For serving.
- Icing Sugar: For dusting.
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl.
- Saucepan.
- Fine-mesh sieve.
- Serving glasses or bowls.
- Knife and cutting board.
Preparation
Preparing the Syrup:
- Making the Syrup: In a saucepan, combine water, sugar, lemon zest, and the vanilla pod (or extract). Bring to a boil, then simmer for about 10 minutes. Let it cool and then strain.
Preparing the Fruits:
- Mixing the Fruits: In a large bowl, combine strawberries, raspberries, red currants, and cherries.
- Marinating: Drizzle the fruits with lemon juice and sprinkle with granulated sugar. Gently toss the fruits to coat them evenly.
- Adding the Syrup: Pour the cooled syrup over the fruits. Let the fruits marinate for at least 1 hour in the refrigerator.
Tips for Success
- Quality of Fruits: Use fresh and ripe fruits for the best flavor and presentation.
- Adjusting Sweetness: Depending on the sweetness of the fruits, adjust the amount of sugar used in marinating.
- Marinating Time: Allow enough time for the fruits to marinate and absorb the flavors of the syrup and lemon juice.
Serving and Storage
- Serving: Serve the marinated fruits in individual glasses or bowls. Garnish with mint leaves and, if desired, a dollop of whipped cream and a dusting of icing sugar.
- Storage: The marinated fruits can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, they are best enjoyed fresh.
Conclusion
Coupes aux Fruits Rouges is a delightful and easy-to-make dessert that brings out the best in red fruits. It’s a perfect choice for a light and refreshing end to any meal, especially during the warmer months. The combination of sweet and tart flavors, enhanced by the simple syrup and lemon, makes this dish a favorite for all ages.
This comprehensive recipe provides a step-by-step guide to making Coupes aux Fruits Rouges, ideal for anyone looking to prepare a visually stunning and delicious fruit-based dessert.
