Berry Gratin

Berry Gratin: A delicacy that combines the natural sweetness and acidity of fruits

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4

A berry gratin is a wonderful choice for a quick and delicious dessert that blends the natural flavors of fruits with a creamy texture. This recipe is simple to make and can be adapted based on the available fruits, making it versatile and suitable for all seasons.

The history of gratin is closely tied to the art of baking, and gratin dishes have been beloved for generations. Over time, they have evolved from vegetable or meat dishes to delicious fruit combinations, as is the case here. Let's explore this recipe together!

Ingredients:

- 300 g blackberries (or other small berries like raspberries or currants)
- 300 g strawberries
- 70 g sugar
- 5 tablespoons sour cream
- 2 egg yolks
- 40 g powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Ingredient details:
- Berries: Blackberries and strawberries bring a sweet note and intense flavor. If you prefer, you can experiment with raspberries, currants, or even sour cherries, ensuring you balance the sweetness with the acidity of these fruits.
- Sour cream: Choose a higher fat content sour cream for a creamier texture.
- Sugar: Granulated sugar will help caramelize the fruits, while powdered sugar adds a finesse to the topping cream.

Step by step:

1. Preparing the fruits: Start by washing the blackberries and strawberries well. Remove the stems from the strawberries and cut them in half or quarters, depending on their size. Mix them with the blackberries in a large bowl and add 70 g of sugar. Let the mixture sit for 10 minutes to form a natural syrup.

2. Preparing the cream: In another bowl, beat the egg yolks with the powdered sugar until the mixture becomes creamy and light in color. Add the sour cream and vanilla extract, continuing to mix until well combined. This cream will add a rich and flavorful note to the gratin.

3. Assembling the gratin: Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). In a baking dish, evenly arrange the prepared fruits. Pour the sour cream mixture over the top, ensuring all the fruits are well covered.

4. Baking: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 25 minutes or until the cream turns golden and slightly firm around the edges. It's ideal to check occasionally to avoid overbaking.

5. Cooling and serving: Once the gratin is ready, remove it from the oven and let it cool for 10 minutes. It can be served warm or at room temperature. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch of flavor.

Tips and tricks:
- If you want a crunchy note, you can add a mix of almond flakes or cookie crumbs on top in the last 10 minutes of baking.
- The berry gratin is perfect to enjoy with a glass of sweet white wine or a fragrant fruit tea.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use frozen fruit? Yes, you can use frozen fruit, but it is recommended to thaw and drain them well before use.
2. How can I make the gratin vegetarian? This recipe is already vegetarian, but make sure to use sour cream without animal-derived additives, depending on your preferences.
3. What is the nutritional value of this dessert? Each serving contains approximately 250 calories, providing a good source of vitamins from the fruits and healthy fats from the sour cream.

This berry gratin recipe is not only a delicious dessert but also a wonderful way to bring nature to your plate. Experiment with different combinations of fruits and discover the preferences of your family and friends. Enjoy!