Ontario Berry Clafoutis

Ontario Berry Clafoutis Recipe - Vegetarian Food from Canada

Region / culture: Canada | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 25 minutes | Servings: 6-8 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Ontario Berry Clafoutis is a delightful and light dessert that is perfect for showcasing the fresh berries of the season. This French-inspired dish is a simple yet elegant way to enjoy the bounty of Ontario's berry harvest.

History

Clafoutis is a traditional French dessert that originated in the Limousin region of France. Originally made with cherries, this custard-like dish has evolved to include a variety of fruits, including berries. The Ontario Berry Clafoutis puts a local twist on this classic recipe by using fresh, local berries.

Ingredients

Serves 6 to 8
2 tbsp softened butter
1 tbsp granulated sugar
1 lb (454 g) quark cheese
4 eggs, separated
2 cups sifted icing sugar
0.25 cup whipping cream
3 tbsp cornstarch
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
0.5 tsp grated lemon rind
2 cups fresh berries
whipped cream

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 450°F (232°C).
Butter an 8 cup square baking dish with about 0.5 tbsp of butter, then sprinkle with granulated sugar.
If the quark seems moist, place it in a sieve and press it with the back of a spoon to remove as much moisture as possible.
In a large bowl, using an electric mixer, beat together the quark and the remaining butter until well combined.
Beat in the egg yolks, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Gradually beat in the icing sugar and continue beating until the mixture is very light.
Beat in the cream, cornstarch, lemon juice, and lemon rind.
In a separate bowl with clean beaters, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form.
Gradually fold the egg whites into the quark mixture until well combined.
Arrange the fruit in the bottom of the prepared dish.
Spoon the quark mixture over the top and bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the dessert comes out clean.
Serve warm with whipped cream.

Variations

Try using different types of berries or a combination of berries for a unique flavor profile.
Add a splash of almond extract or a sprinkle of cinnamon for a different twist on the traditional recipe.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to properly prepare the quark by removing excess moisture to ensure a light and fluffy texture.

- Folding in the beaten egg whites gently will help maintain the airy consistency of the clafoutis.

- Serve the clafoutis warm for the best flavor and texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Ontario Berry Clafoutis warm with a dollop of whipped cream on top for a decadent finish.

Cooking Techniques

The key to a successful Ontario Berry Clafoutis is properly preparing the quark and folding in the beaten egg whites gently to maintain the light and airy texture of the dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

If quark is not available, you can substitute with ricotta cheese or Greek yogurt for a similar texture.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the Ontario Berry Clafoutis ahead of time and reheat it in the oven before serving for a convenient dessert option.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Ontario Berry Clafoutis in individual ramekins for a more elegant presentation, or in a large baking dish for a family-style dessert.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this light and fruity dessert with a glass of sparkling wine or a cup of hot tea for a delightful end to a meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Ontario Berry Clafoutis in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven at a low temperature to maintain the texture.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Ontario Berry Clafoutis contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Ontario Berry Clafoutis contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Ontario Berry Clafoutis contains approximately 15 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Ontario Berry Clafoutis contains approximately 8 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

The fresh berries in this dish provide a good source of vitamin C and antioxidants.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cheese, cream, butter) and eggs.

Summary

Ontario Berry Clafoutis is a moderate source of carbohydrates and fats, with a good amount of protein. It also provides essential vitamins and minerals from the fresh berries.

Summary

Ontario Berry Clafoutis is a delicious and versatile dessert that highlights the fresh flavors of local berries. With a light and airy texture, this dish is sure to be a hit at any gathering.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a happy memory that I will always cherish. It was a warm summer day in Ontario, and the sun was shining brightly as I strolled through the local farmer's market. The air was filled with the sweet scent of fresh berries, and my mouth watered at the sight of the delicious fruits on display.

As I wandered through the market, I came across a stall selling the most beautiful Ontario berries I had ever seen. There were plump blueberries, juicy strawberries, and tart raspberries, all glistening in the sunlight. I couldn't resist buying a basket of each, knowing that I would find a way to use them in a delicious dessert.

That evening, as I sat at my kitchen table surrounded by baskets of berries, I remembered a recipe I had heard about from a friend - Ontario Berry Clafoutis. I had never made it before, but I knew that it was a traditional French dessert made with fresh fruit and a custard-like batter. I decided to give it a try, using the beautiful Ontario berries I had purchased earlier that day.

I gathered all the ingredients I needed - eggs, sugar, flour, milk, vanilla extract, and, of course, the fresh Ontario berries. As I began to mix the batter, the kitchen was filled with the sweet aroma of vanilla and the tangy scent of the ripe berries. I could feel my mouth watering in anticipation of the delicious dessert that was to come.

I poured the batter into a buttered baking dish and carefully arranged the berries on top, creating a beautiful mosaic of colors and flavors. As I slid the dish into the oven, I couldn't help but smile at the thought of the delicious dessert that awaited me.

As the clafoutis baked, the kitchen was filled with the tantalizing scent of sweet berries and warm custard. I watched through the oven door as the dessert rose and turned golden brown, the berries bubbling and bursting with flavor. When the timer finally dinged, I pulled the clafoutis out of the oven and set it on the counter to cool.

I couldn't wait to dig in, and as I took my first bite of the Ontario Berry Clafoutis, I knew that I had discovered a new favorite recipe. The creamy custard was perfectly balanced by the tangy sweetness of the berries, creating a dessert that was both elegant and comforting. I savored each bite, enjoying the flavors of summer that filled my mouth with every bite.

Since that day, Ontario Berry Clafoutis has become a favorite in my household. I have made it for family gatherings, dinner parties, and lazy Sunday afternoons. Each time I make it, I am reminded of that warm summer day in Ontario when I first discovered the recipe, and I am filled with gratitude for the friends, family, and farmers who have shared their culinary secrets with me over the years.

As I sit here now, surrounded by the memories of a life filled with delicious food and good company, I am grateful for the simple pleasures that bring joy to my heart. And as I take another bite of Ontario Berry Clafoutis, I am reminded once again of the power of a good recipe - to bring people together, to create memories, and to nourish both body and soul.