Ambrosia I

Ambrosia I Recipe - Fruit Cocktail with Whipped Cream and Walnuts

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 0 minutes | Servings: 8

Introduction

Ambrosia I is a delightful and creamy fruit salad that has graced tables for generations. This dish combines the sweetness of fruits with the richness of whipped cream, accented by the crunch of walnuts and the softness of marshmallows. It's a versatile recipe that can be served as a dessert, a side dish, or even a festive holiday treat. The simplicity of preparation and the refreshing taste make it a favorite among both cooks and diners.

History

The recipe for Ambrosia has its roots in the American South, where it first appeared in cookbooks in the late 19th century. Originally, it was a simple mixture of fresh citrus fruits and coconut. Over the years, the recipe evolved to include a variety of fruits, nuts, and marshmallows, with whipped cream becoming a popular addition in the 20th century. Ambrosia reflects the changing tastes and available ingredients over time, making it a fascinating culinary tradition.

Ingredients

3 cans of fruit cocktail (in fruit juice or light syrup)
1 x 16 oz (454 g) tub of whipped cream
0.5 cup of walnuts
3 cups of mini marshmallows
1 medium sweet apple
1 medium banana
1 small can of mandarin oranges

How to prepare

Drain the mandarin oranges and fruit cocktail into a small bowl. Then, pour the oranges and cocktail into a large mixing bowl.
Add the walnuts to the cocktail.
Peel the apple and slice it into chunks. Put the apple chunks into the drained syrup.
Slice the banana and put the chunks in the syrup. Set it aside for five minutes.
Add the banana and apple chunks to the cocktail. Mix them thoroughly.
Add the marshmallows to the cocktail and mix them thoroughly.
Add the whipped cream and mix it thoroughly.
Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes before serving.

Variations

There are many ways to vary the Ambrosia I recipe to suit your taste or available ingredients:
Substitute Greek yogurt for whipped cream for a healthier version.
Add other fruits such as pineapple, grapes, or strawberries.
Use pecans or almonds instead of walnuts for a different crunch.
Incorporate mini chocolate chips or shredded coconut for extra flavor.

Notes

Make sure to add marshmallows LAST before adding whipped cream. Failure to do so will result in marshmallows melting.
You can add coconut to salad if so desired. 0.5 cup is recommended.
Extra maraschino cherries may also be added.
Thoroughly drain cocktail using a sieve. Do not just drain in can.
Failure to marinate bananas and apple in syrup will result in them browning.
This dessert is best chilled but can be served at room temperature.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure your Ambrosia I turns out perfectly, consider the following tips:

- Use fresh fruits where possible for the best flavor and texture.

- If using canned fruits, ensure they are well-drained to prevent the salad from becoming too watery.

- Chill the fruit and whipped cream before mixing to keep the salad cool and refreshing.

- Gently fold the ingredients to keep the whipped cream fluffy and light.

- Let the salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Serving Suggestions

Ambrosia I can be served in individual bowls or glasses for an elegant presentation. It also makes a beautiful centerpiece when served in a large glass bowl, allowing the colors of the fruits to shine through.

Cooking Techniques

The key technique in preparing Ambrosia I is gentle folding. This method ensures that the whipped cream stays light and airy, and the fruits and nuts are evenly distributed without crushing the softer ingredients.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're missing an ingredient or want to customize your Ambrosia, consider these substitutions:

- Use any canned fruit cocktail in place of the specific fruits listed.

- Substitute cool whip or any whipped topping for homemade whipped cream.

- Replace walnuts with any other nut or omit them entirely for a nut-free version.

Make Ahead Tips

Ambrosia I can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve. It's best consumed within 24 hours to ensure the fruits remain fresh and the whipped cream stays fluffy.

Presentation Ideas

For a festive touch, serve Ambrosia I in clear glasses layered with additional whipped cream and topped with a cherry or a sprinkle of nutmeg. Garnish with mint leaves for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Ambrosia I pairs wonderfully with light main courses such as grilled chicken or fish. It also complements other desserts, especially chocolate or vanilla cakes, providing a refreshing contrast.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Ambrosia I should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and is best enjoyed cold. It does not require reheating. Consume within 2-3 days for optimal freshness.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A serving of Ambrosia I contains approximately 200 calories. The calories come from a combination of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, with the majority coming from the sugars in the fruits and marshmallows.

Carbohydrates

A serving of Ambrosia I contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates. The primary sources of carbohydrates in this dish are the fruits and marshmallows, which provide natural sugars and some dietary fiber.

Fats

The fats in Ambrosia I primarily come from the whipped cream and walnuts, contributing to about 10 grams of fat per serving. These fats include a mix of saturated and unsaturated fats, which are important for a balanced diet.

Proteins

Ambrosia I is not a high-protein dish, containing about 2 grams of protein per serving. The small amount of protein comes from the nuts and the dairy in the whipped cream.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is a good source of several vitamins and minerals, particularly from the fruits used. Vitamins A and C are present in significant amounts, thanks to the mandarin oranges and apples. The bananas add potassium, while the nuts provide magnesium and vitamin E.

Alergens

Common allergens in Ambrosia I include dairy (from the whipped cream) and nuts (walnuts). Individuals with allergies to these ingredients should exercise caution.

Summary

Overall, Ambrosia I is a moderately calorie-dense dish that provides a good balance of carbohydrates and fats, along with essential vitamins and minerals. It's a delicious way to enjoy a variety of fruits, complemented by the richness of whipped cream and the texture of nuts and marshmallows.

Summary

Ambrosia I is a classic fruit salad that combines the sweetness of fruits with the creaminess of whipped cream and the crunch of nuts. It's a versatile dish that can be adapted to suit any taste or occasion. With its rich history and simple preparation, Ambrosia I continues to be a beloved treat for people of all ages.

How did I get this recipe?

I can still remember the exact moment I discovered this recipe for Ambrosia. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my Aunt Mabel's house for a family gathering. As soon as I walked through the front door, I was greeted by the most amazing aroma wafting from the kitchen. I followed my nose to find Aunt Mabel busily preparing a dish that I had never seen before.

"What are you making, Aunt Mabel?" I asked, curious about the delicious smells coming from her kitchen.

"Oh, this is Ambrosia," she replied with a smile. "It's a southern classic that's perfect for summer gatherings. Would you like to help me make it?"

I eagerly agreed and Aunt Mabel began to show me the ropes. She explained that Ambrosia is a fruit salad made with a combination of fresh fruits, coconut, and marshmallows, all mixed together with a creamy dressing made from sour cream and sugar. It sounded like a heavenly combination, and I couldn't wait to taste it.

As we worked together in the kitchen, Aunt Mabel shared stories of how she had learned to make Ambrosia from her own grandmother when she was a young girl. She told me that the recipe had been passed down through the generations in her family, and each person had put their own unique spin on it.

I was fascinated by the idea of a recipe being handed down from one generation to the next, each person adding their own touch to make it their own. I knew then that I wanted to learn more about the history of recipes and the stories behind them.

After a few hours of chopping, mixing, and stirring, the Ambrosia was finally ready. Aunt Mabel scooped some into a bowl and handed me a spoon. I took a bite and was immediately transported to a place of pure bliss. The combination of sweet fruits, creamy dressing, and fluffy marshmallows was unlike anything I had ever tasted before.

From that day on, Ambrosia became a staple at every family gathering. I would always volunteer to make it, eager to recreate the magic that Aunt Mabel had shown me that summer day. I experimented with different fruits and toppings, trying to put my own twist on the classic recipe.

Over the years, I continued to learn new recipes from friends, neighbors, and anyone else who was willing to share their culinary secrets with me. I collected recipes in a worn, tattered notebook, each one telling a story of where it came from and who had passed it down to me.

But Ambrosia remained my favorite, a reminder of that warm summer day when I first discovered the joy of cooking and the power of a good recipe. It became more than just a dish to serve at family gatherings – it was a connection to my past, a symbol of the love and care that had gone into creating it.

As I grew older, I passed the recipe on to my own grandchildren, teaching them the art of making Ambrosia and sharing the stories behind it. I watched as they eagerly mixed the fruits and marshmallows together, their faces lighting up with joy as they took their first bite.

And as I sat back and watched them enjoy the fruits of my labor, I knew that the tradition would continue for generations to come. The recipe for Ambrosia would live on, bringing joy and comfort to all who tasted it, just as it had for me so many years ago.