Mixed Berry Lemon Fruit Crisp

Mixed Berry Lemon Fruit Crisp Recipe - Brown Rice, Berries, and Citrus Flavors

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Mixed Berry Lemon Fruit Crisp is a delicious and refreshing dessert that combines the tartness of mixed berries with the zesty flavor of lemon. This crisp is perfect for a summer gathering or a cozy night in.

History

Fruit crisps have been a popular dessert in American cuisine for centuries. The combination of fruit, sugar, and a crispy topping has been a favorite among families for generations. This particular recipe adds a twist with the addition of lemon, giving the dish a bright and citrusy flavor.

Ingredients

1 cup uncooked brown rice
1 tbsp grated lemon peel
0.25 tsp salt
2 cups water
3 cups frozen berries, thawed and drained
0.25 cup brown sugar + 2 tbsp for topping
2 tbsp lemon juice
vegetable cooking spray
1 cup coarsely crushed crispy brown rice flakes
1 tbsp margarine

How to prepare

Combine rice, lemon peel, salt, and water in a saucepan of 2 to 3 qt (2.84 liters).
Bring to a boil, stirring once.
Cover, reduce heat, and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
Add berries, 0.25 cup of sugar, and lemon juice, stirring gently.
Pour the mixture into an oblong baking dish coated with cooking spray.
In a small bowl, combine crushed rice flakes and the remaining 2 tbsp of sugar.
Cut in margarine until the mixture resembles coarse meal.
Sprinkle the mixture over the rice mixture.
Bake at 375°F (191°C) for 20 to 30 minutes or until thoroughly heated.

Variations

Swap out the mixed berries for a single type of berry, such as blueberries or raspberries.
Add a sprinkle of cinnamon to the topping for a warm and spicy flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to drain the thawed berries well to prevent the crisp from becoming too watery.

- For a more decadent dessert, serve the crisp warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

- Feel free to mix and match different types of berries to create your own unique flavor combination.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Mixed Berry Lemon Fruit Crisp warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent treat.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to gently stir the berry mixture to avoid crushing the berries and creating a mushy texture.

- Check the crisp periodically while baking to ensure that the topping does not burn.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use white rice instead of brown rice for a lighter texture.

- Substitute butter for margarine for a richer flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the berry mixture and topping ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator until ready to bake.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Mixed Berry Lemon Fruit Crisp in individual ramekins for a more elegant presentation. - Garnish with fresh mint leaves or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a decorative touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this crisp with a glass of sparkling wine or a cup of hot tea for a delightful dessert experience.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

- Reheat in the oven at 350°F (177°C) for 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

180

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 38g

- Dietary Fiber: 3g

- Sugars: 12g

Fats

- Total Fat: 2g

- Saturated Fat: 0.5g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 1g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin C: 15% DV

- Vitamin A: 2% DV

- Iron: 4% DV

Alergens

Contains: None

Summary

This Mixed Berry Lemon Fruit Crisp is a light and refreshing dessert option that is relatively low in calories and fat. It is a great way to satisfy your sweet tooth without overindulging.

Summary

Mixed Berry Lemon Fruit Crisp is a delightful dessert that combines the sweetness of mixed berries with the tangy flavor of lemon. This crisp is easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Enjoy it warm with a scoop of ice cream for a truly indulgent treat.

How did I get this recipe?

I can still picture the first time I came across this recipe for Mixed Berry Lemon Fruit Crisp. It was a warm summer day, the sun shining brightly in the sky as I strolled through the farmer's market with my friend, Sarah. The smell of fresh fruits and vegetables filled the air, and I couldn't help but feel inspired by all the vibrant colors and flavors around me.

As we made our way through the market, we came across a booth overflowing with plump, juicy berries of all kinds – strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries. The sight of these beautiful fruits immediately sparked my curiosity, and I knew I had to find a way to incorporate them into a delicious dessert.

I struck up a conversation with the vendor, an elderly woman with a warm smile and a twinkle in her eye. She told me that she had been coming to the market for years, selling the fruits that she grew on her own farm just outside of town. She shared with me her passion for baking and cooking, and how she had learned to make the most wonderful fruit crisps from her own grandmother many years ago.

Intrigued by her story, I asked her if she would be willing to share her recipe with me. To my delight, she agreed, and she began to recite the ingredients and instructions from memory. As she spoke, I could see the love and care she put into every step of the process, from selecting the ripest berries to sprinkling the crumbly oat topping over the fruit.

I eagerly jotted down the recipe in my notebook, making sure to capture every detail so that I could recreate the dish at home. The vendor smiled as she handed me the piece of paper, telling me that she hoped I would enjoy making the Mixed Berry Lemon Fruit Crisp as much as she did.

When I returned home, I wasted no time in gathering the necessary ingredients and getting to work in my own kitchen. The scent of fresh berries and zesty lemon filled the air as I mixed and measured, following the recipe with care and precision. As the fruit bubbled and the topping turned golden brown in the oven, I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride and accomplishment.

When the Mixed Berry Lemon Fruit Crisp emerged from the oven, golden and glistening with juices, I knew that I had stumbled upon a truly special recipe. The combination of sweet berries, tart lemon, and crunchy oat topping was absolutely divine, and I couldn't wait to share it with my family and friends.

Over the years, I have made the Mixed Berry Lemon Fruit Crisp countless times, each batch just as delicious as the last. I have experimented with different combinations of berries and spices, adding my own personal touch to the recipe while still honoring the tradition and heritage that it represents.

Whenever I bake this fruit crisp, I am reminded of that fateful day at the farmer's market, when I discovered not only a fantastic recipe but also a connection to the past and a newfound passion for cooking. I am grateful to the kind vendor who shared her knowledge and her love of baking with me, and I hope that I can pass on this recipe and the joy it brings to others for years to come.