Berry jelly

Berry Jelly – a Summer Delight

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooling time: 2 hours
Total time: 2 hours and 20 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6 servings

Summer is a season full of joy and color, and berries are true treasures that we eagerly await. The thought of a walk in the woods, with a little basket in hand, picking raspberries and blueberries makes us smile. And what could be more enjoyable than turning these delicious fruits into a berry jelly that not only refreshes but also adds a touch of festivity to our table?

The history of fruit jelly takes us back to times when people preserved fruits to enjoy them in the colder seasons. Today, making jelly at home offers us not only the satisfaction of creating something delicious but also the joy of using natural ingredients. Let's embark together on this simple yet impressive recipe!

Ingredients needed:
- 1 cup fresh raspberries
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
- 2 tablespoons wildflower honey (or sugar, to taste)
- 1 packet gelatin (approx. 10g)
- 60 ml cold water (for hydrating the gelatin)
- 1 drop vanilla extract (optional)
- 5 tablespoons heavy cream
- 5 tablespoons cream cheese
- A few fresh blueberries for decoration
- Mint leaves for decoration

Preparation method:
1. Preparing the fruits: Start by washing the raspberries and blueberries well under a stream of cold water. It is essential to remove any impurities. Drain them well and let them dry.

2. Hydrating the gelatin: In a small bowl, soak the gelatin in 60 ml of cold water. Let it sit for 10 minutes to absorb the water and become soft.

3. Preparing the puree: In a blender, add the raspberries and blueberries. Blend for 30 seconds until you get a smooth puree. If you prefer a finer texture, you can strain the puree to remove the seeds, although they are rich in fiber.

4. Sweetening the puree: Add the honey (or sugar) and a drop of vanilla extract to the fruit puree. Mix well to combine the ingredients.

5. Liquefying the gelatin: Heat the hydrated gelatin in a double boiler or in the microwave for 10 seconds until it becomes completely liquid. Be careful not to boil it, as it will lose its gelling properties.

6. Combining the ingredients: Pour the liquid gelatin into the fruit puree, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. It is important to keep stirring to achieve a uniform texture.

7. Pouring into molds: Prepare the jelly molds by greasing them with a little neutral vegetable oil (grapeseed oil is ideal). Pour the fruit mixture into the molds and refrigerate for about 2 hours until set.

8. Preparing the sauce: In a vertical blender, add the heavy cream and cream cheese. Blend until it becomes a smooth paste. Add a few fresh blueberries and blend for another 10 seconds. You can add sugar or honey to taste if you want a sweeter sauce.

9. Serving: Remove the jellies from the molds and arrange them on a platter. Serve them cold, alongside the cream and cheese sauce, decorated with fresh blueberries and mint leaves. This combination not only looks spectacular but also delights the taste buds!

Practical tips:
- Using silicone molds: These are ideal for jelly, as they make it easy to remove the jellies without damaging them.
- Fruit variations: You can experiment with other berries, such as blackberries or strawberries, to achieve diverse flavors.
- Alternative sweetener: If you prefer a healthier option, you can replace honey with a natural sweetener like agave syrup or stevia.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
This berry jelly is a healthy choice, being rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. A serving contains approximately 120 calories, depending on the ingredients used. Raspberries and blueberries are known for their high vitamin C and fiber content, contributing to healthy digestion.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use vegetarian gelatin? Yes, you can use agar-agar as an alternative to traditional gelatin.
- How can I store the jelly? The jelly can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-5 days in an airtight container.
- Can the jelly be frozen? Generally, jellies are not recommended to be frozen, as the texture may be affected.

Serving recommendations:
This jelly is perfect for serving at parties, alongside a glass of fresh lemonade or a summer cocktail. It is an ideal dessert for children as well as adults, bringing a touch of flavor and color to any occasion.

Enjoy every moment spent in the kitchen, bringing nature to your table! Berry jelly is not just a dessert; it is a true experience that connects you with the season of fresh fruits. Enjoy your meal!