Strawberry topping

Strawberry Topping – The sweet delight that will transform your desserts! Who doesn't love the fresh aroma and sweet-tart taste of strawberries? This strawberry topping is perfect for adding a touch of magic to your favorite desserts, whether it's ice cream, waffles, or cheesecake. You'll find that making this topping is not only simple but also extremely satisfying. Plus, it will remind you of sunny days and meals with family and friends.

Preparation time: 20 minutes Cooking time: 30 minutes Total time: 50 minutes Servings: About 4 bottles of 500 ml

Ingredients:

- 2 kg of fresh strawberries, cleaned and washed
- 1 liter of natural orange juice
- 1 kg of sugar
- Half a lemon, sliced

Necessary utensils:

- Blender or food processor
- A large pot
- Wooden spoon
- Fine sieve (optional)
- Bottles for preservation
- Bottle capper (optional)

Brief history of the recipe

Fruit toppings have been used for centuries to add flavor to desserts. Strawberries, with their natural sweetness and vibrant color, have become a favorite ingredient in pastry kitchens. This simple recipe will provide you with an excellent way to preserve the flavors of summer to enjoy during the winter.

Step by step:

1. Preparing the strawberries Start by cleaning and washing the strawberries well. Remove the stems and any visible defects. Now, put them in a blender and blend until you obtain a smooth paste. If you prefer a finer texture, you can strain the paste through a fine sieve to remove the seeds.

2. Mixing the ingredients In a large pot, combine the strawberry paste with the sugar and orange juice. Mix well to ensure that the sugar dissolves evenly. It is important to use natural orange juice without additives to achieve an authentic taste.

3. Boiling the mixture Place the pot over low heat and stir occasionally. You will notice how the mixture begins to boil, and foam will form on the surface. Use a wooden spoon to gather the foam, ensuring that you remove all the excess.

4. Adding the lemon After you have gathered all the excess foam, increase the heat to medium-high. Add the lemon slices and let everything boil for about 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

5. Checking the consistency After 15 minutes, take a spoonful of the mixture and let it cool for a moment. Check the consistency – it should be similar to that of tomato juice. If it is too liquid, let it boil for a few more minutes, checking constantly.

6. Preserving the topping When you have achieved the desired consistency, turn off the heat and, while it is still hot, pour the topping into the prepared bottles. Make sure to seal them well, and then place them in a warm spot (perhaps even under blankets) until they cool completely, ideally overnight.

Serving suggestions

This strawberry topping is incredibly versatile. You can use it to garnish your favorite ice cream, add a delicious layer to waffles, or top a decadent cheesecake. It can also be a surprise ingredient in chocolate cakes, providing a pleasant contrast of flavors.

Possible variations

- Mixed fruits: You can also add other fruits, such as raspberries or blueberries, to create a topping with varied flavors.
- Spices: Add a pinch of cinnamon or a splash of vanilla for an even more complex taste.
- Alternative sweeteners: If you want to reduce sugar, you can use honey or maple syrup, taking care to adjust the amount based on the desired sweetness.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use frozen strawberries? Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain them well before using.

2. Can I keep the topping for more than a year? Usually, it keeps well for a few months, but it is recommended to consume it within 6 months to enjoy its optimal taste.

3. Are preservatives needed? No, using sugar and the boiling process helps preserve the topping.

Nutritional information

This strawberry topping recipe is an excellent source of vitamin C due to the strawberries and orange juice. It also contains antioxidants that are beneficial for overall health. Each serving has approximately 150 calories, depending on the amount of sugar used.

Conclusion

This strawberry topping will not only enhance your desserts but also bring a touch of joy to every spoonful. It is easy to prepare and will always remind you of the beautiful moments spent with loved ones. So, don't hesitate to try this recipe and share your creations with friends and family! Enjoy!