Friday, May 16, 2008

Strawberries and Balsamic Vinegar


Now that strawberries are in season, I'm seeing them all over dessert menus at my favorite restaurants. But I also like to enjoy them as an anytime snack. Here is an unexpectedly delicious way to bring out the intense flavor of the strawberry.

Strawberries and Balsamic Vinegar
1 Pt. Strawberries, hulled
1-2 tsp Balsamic Vinegar
Sugar to taste, Optional

Hull the strawberries. If they are not at their peak of sweetness you may want to sprinkle a little bit of sugar - this a a personal preference, I tend to leave it out. In a medium bowl (nothing metal - it oxidizes the strawberries and vinegar) mix the strawberries with the vinegar - adding 1 tsp at a time and tasting in between. Make sure that you're using your best balsamic vinegar, because it isn't being cooked, it needs to be the highest quality and best flavor.

The strawberries can be eaten right away, or they can be left to macerate in the fridge (should not be left in fridge for more than 1 hour as the strawberries will start to break down).

To serve, you can eat them right out of the bowl as a refreshing snack or dessert. The strawberries can also be quartered and served on some small toasts with goat cheese as an hors' dourves. They also make a fabulous topping for panna cotta.

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