Strawberry Fool

Strawberry Fool Recipe from Ghana with Port and Confectioners' Sugar

Region / culture: Ghana | Servings: 4

Introduction

Strawberry Fool is a classic English dessert that is light, creamy, and bursting with the fresh flavor of strawberries. This simple yet elegant dessert is perfect for any occasion, whether it's a casual family dinner or a fancy dinner party.

History

The origins of Strawberry Fool can be traced back to England, where it has been enjoyed for centuries. The word "fool" in the name refers to the act of mashing or pureeing fruit, which is then mixed with whipped cream to create a light and fluffy dessert. Originally, fools were made with a variety of fruits, but strawberries have become the most popular choice for this delicious dessert.

Ingredients

1 cup of strawberries, cut into quarters
0.5 cup of confectioners' sugar
1 cup of heavy cream
3 – 4 tbsp of port or madeira wine

How to prepare

Sprinkle 0.25 cup of sugar over strawberries that have been cut into quarters in a bowl.
Beat the cream with madeira wine and 0.25 cup of sugar until stiff.
Fold the whipped cream into the strawberries.
Pile the mixture high in footed sherbet glasses.
Garnish each glass with one whole strawberry.

Variations

Try using different berries such as raspberries or blueberries for a different flavor.
For a boozy twist, you can add a splash of liqueur such as Grand Marnier or Chambord to the whipped cream.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to use ripe, sweet strawberries for the best flavor.

- Make sure to chill the whipped cream and the bowl before whipping to ensure a light and fluffy texture.

- You can adjust the amount of sugar to suit your taste preferences.

- For a more intense flavor, you can add a splash of lemon juice or zest to the strawberries.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Strawberry Fool chilled in footed sherbet glasses for an elegant presentation. You can also top it with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of crushed nuts for added texture.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to fold the whipped cream gently into the strawberries to maintain a light and airy texture.

- Chill the dessert for at least an hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have madeira wine, you can use a different sweet wine such as port or sherry.

- You can use coconut cream as a dairy-free alternative to heavy cream.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the Strawberry Fool up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve. Just be sure to garnish with fresh strawberries right before serving.

Presentation Ideas

For a more elegant presentation, you can layer the strawberries and whipped cream in a clear glass for a beautiful visual effect. You can also garnish with a sprig of fresh mint or a dusting of powdered sugar.

Pairing Recommendations

Strawberry Fool pairs well with a glass of sparkling wine or champagne for a light and refreshing dessert experience. You can also serve it with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a cozy finish to a meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Strawberry Fool in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Be sure to cover it with plastic wrap or a lid to prevent it from absorbing any odors from the fridge. Do not freeze as the texture may become grainy when thawed.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 200

Carbohydrates

Total Carbohydrates: 18g

Dietary Fiber: 1g

Sugars: 15g

Fats

Total Fat: 15g

Saturated Fat: 9g

Proteins

Protein: 1g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin C: 42mg

Calcium: 38mg

Iron: 0.3mg

Alergens

Contains dairy

Summary

Strawberry Fool is a delicious dessert that is relatively low in calories but high in fat and sugar. It is a treat best enjoyed in moderation.

Summary

Strawberry Fool is a delightful dessert that is perfect for showcasing the fresh flavors of strawberries. With its light and creamy texture, it is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Enjoy this classic English dessert any time of year for a sweet and satisfying treat.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time is still fresh in my mind. It was a warm summer day, the birds were chirping, and the sun was shining brightly through the kitchen window. I was rummaging through an old recipe box that belonged to my grandmother when I stumbled upon a faded piece of paper tucked away in the back. The words "Strawberry Fool" were scrawled across the top in elegant cursive.

I had never heard of Strawberry Fool before, but the name intrigued me. As I read through the ingredients and instructions, I could almost taste the sweet, tangy flavor of the strawberries mixed with the creamy richness of the whipped cream. It sounded like the perfect dessert for a summer evening, so I decided to give it a try.

The next day, I went to the market and picked out the ripest, juiciest strawberries I could find. I brought them home, washed them carefully, and began to prepare the dish. The recipe was simple, but the outcome was anything but ordinary.

I chopped the strawberries into small pieces and simmered them with a little sugar until they were soft and fragrant. While they cooled, I whipped up some heavy cream until it formed stiff peaks. I gently folded the strawberries into the whipped cream, being careful not to crush them too much. The mixture turned a lovely shade of pale pink, flecked with bits of bright red fruit.

I spooned the Strawberry Fool into delicate glass dishes and placed them in the refrigerator to chill. The anticipation of tasting my creation was almost unbearable. Finally, the moment arrived. I took a small spoonful of the dessert and closed my eyes as I savored the first bite.

The flavors exploded on my tongue – the sweetness of the strawberries, the smoothness of the cream, the hint of vanilla. It was like nothing I had ever tasted before. I knew then that this recipe would become a staple in my kitchen, a go-to dessert for special occasions and lazy summer afternoons alike.

Over the years, I have made Strawberry Fool countless times, each batch just as delicious as the last. I have shared the recipe with friends and family, passing it down from generation to generation. It has become a beloved tradition in our household, a reminder of summer days gone by and the simple pleasures of homemade cooking.

As I sit here now, reflecting on that fateful day when I first discovered the recipe for Strawberry Fool, I am filled with gratitude for the culinary adventures that have shaped my life. Cooking has always been a passion of mine, a way to express love and creativity through food. And this humble dessert, with its blend of sweet and tart flavors, has become a symbol of that passion – a reminder of the joy that comes from sharing a delicious meal with the ones you love.

So, if you ever find yourself in need of a simple yet elegant dessert to impress your guests or satisfy your sweet tooth, look no further than the recipe for Strawberry Fool. It may just become a cherished tradition in your own family, a reminder of the power of good food to bring people together and create lasting memories.