Blueberry Sauce

Introduction

History

The use of fruit sauces dates back centuries, with each culture incorporating its local fruits into culinary traditions. Blueberry sauce, in particular, has its roots in North American cuisine, where blueberries are native and have been enjoyed both fresh and in various recipes by indigenous peoples long before European settlers arrived. This recipe, inspired by the simplicity and health-conscious approach of The New McDougall Cookbook, reflects a modern desire for dishes that are both nutritious and flavorful.

Ingredients

How to prepare

Variations

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To achieve the perfect consistency for your blueberry sauce, ensure that the cornstarch is completely dissolved in the pineapple juice before heating. This prevents lumps from forming. If using fresh blueberries, consider adding a tablespoon of water or extra pineapple juice if the sauce seems too thick, as fresh berries might not release as much juice as thawed ones.

Serving Suggestions

This versatile sauce pairs beautifully with both sweet and savory dishes. Try it over vanilla ice cream, as a topping for oatmeal or pancakes, or even alongside grilled pork or chicken for a touch of sweetness.

Cooking Techniques

The key technique in this recipe is the thickening of the sauce with cornstarch, a common method in many sauces and gravies. Gentle heating and constant stirring are crucial to achieving the desired consistency without burning or over-thickening.

Ingredient Substitutions

If pineapple juice isn't available, apple juice or even water with a bit of added sugar can be used as alternatives. Arrowroot powder can replace cornstarch for those with corn allergies or preferences.

Make Ahead Tips

This sauce can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week, making it a convenient option for quick breakfasts or desserts. Simply reheat gently before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the sauce in a beautiful glass jar or pitcher for guests to pour themselves, or drizzle it over desserts for an elegant finish. A sprig of mint or a few fresh blueberries makes a lovely garnish.

Pairing Recommendations

The natural sweetness and slight acidity of this sauce make it an excellent companion to creamy or rich desserts like cheesecake or panna cotta. It also pairs well with mild cheeses as part of a cheese platter.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a saucepan over low heat, adding a little water or juice if it has thickened too much during storage.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each half-cup serving of this blueberry sauce contains only 66 calories, making it a light and diet-friendly option for adding sweetness and depth to a variety of dishes.

Carbohydrates

This blueberry sauce is relatively low in carbohydrates, with the primary sources being the natural sugars from the pineapple juice and blueberries. A serving contains approximately 16 grams of carbohydrates, making it a suitable option for those monitoring their intake.

Fats

With only 0.2 grams of fat per serving, this blueberry sauce is an excellent choice for anyone looking to reduce their fat intake without sacrificing flavor. The negligible amount of fat makes it a heart-healthy addition to meals.

Proteins

This recipe is not a significant source of protein, containing less than 1 gram per serving. It's primarily intended as a flavorful complement to protein-rich dishes rather than a protein source on its own.

Vitamins and minerals

Blueberries are well-known for their antioxidant properties, particularly vitamin C and manganese. This sauce provides a good dose of these nutrients, along with smaller amounts of other vitamins and minerals, contributing to a balanced diet.

Alergens

This recipe is free from common allergens such as nuts, dairy, soy, and gluten, making it suitable for individuals with various dietary restrictions.

Summary

Overall, this blueberry sauce is a low-calorie, low-fat option that provides a good source of vitamins and antioxidants. It's a healthy way to enhance the flavor of your meals without adding unnecessary sugars or fats.

Summary

This Blueberry Sauce recipe is a testament to the beauty of simple, wholesome ingredients coming together to create something truly delightful. With its rich history, nutritional benefits, and versatile uses, it's a must-try for anyone looking to add a touch of sweetness to their culinary repertoire.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a happy one. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living on my family's farm. My mother had taken ill, and I had taken up the responsibility of cooking for the family. I had always enjoyed spending time in the kitchen, watching my mother cook and learning from her. But this was the first time I had to cook a full meal on my own.

I remember going through my mother's old recipe box, looking for something simple yet delicious to make for dinner. That's when I stumbled upon the recipe for Blueberry Sauce. It was a handwritten recipe on a crumpled piece of paper, stained with years of use. The ingredients were simple - blueberries, sugar, lemon juice, and a touch of cinnamon. The instructions were easy to follow, and I knew I had to give it a try.

I gathered the ingredients and set to work in the kitchen. I washed and sorted the blueberries, carefully removing any stems or leaves. I added them to a saucepan with the sugar, lemon juice, and cinnamon, and set the mixture to simmer on the stove. The sweet smell of blueberries and cinnamon filled the air, making my mouth water in anticipation.

As the sauce cooked, I stirred it gently, watching as the blueberries softened and released their juices, creating a thick and luscious sauce. I couldn't wait to taste it. Finally, after what seemed like an eternity, the sauce was ready. I spooned it over a bowl of vanilla ice cream and took my first bite.

The burst of sweet and tangy blueberry flavor was unlike anything I had ever tasted before. It was pure magic in my mouth. I couldn't believe that I had made something so delicious all on my own. From that moment on, Blueberry Sauce became a staple in our household.

Over the years, I perfected the recipe, experimenting with different variations and additions. I added a splash of vanilla extract for extra flavor, or a sprinkle of nutmeg for a warm and spicy kick. Sometimes, I would even swap out the blueberries for other fruits like strawberries or raspberries, creating a whole new sauce each time.

I shared the recipe with friends and family, who all raved about how delicious it was. They couldn't believe that something so simple could taste so good. I even entered it into a local cooking competition and won first prize. The judges couldn't get enough of the Blueberry Sauce, and I was thrilled to receive recognition for my creation.

Now, as I sit in my kitchen, surrounded by memories of years gone by, I still make Blueberry Sauce on special occasions. It reminds me of that young girl who first discovered the joy of cooking, and the satisfaction of creating something delicious from scratch. It's a reminder that no matter how much time passes, some recipes will always hold a special place in my heart. And the Blueberry Sauce will always be one of them.

Categories

| American Recipes | Blueberry Recipes | Low-calorie Recipes | Pineapple Juice Recipes | Pineapple Recipes |

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