Strawberries In The Sun Recipe

Strawberries In The Sun Recipe

Introduction:
Strawberries in the Sun is a delightful dessert that is believed to have originated in ancient times. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of strawberries with a homemade syrup, creating a thick and syrupy juice that intensifies the flavor of the fruit. The process of allowing the strawberries to sit in the sun for several days allows the juice to thicken, resulting in a unique and delicious treat.

Fun Fact:
In earlier times, sun drying was a common preservation method before the invention of refrigeration. By harnessing the power of the sun, people were able to preserve fruits and vegetables for extended periods, extending their shelf life and creating new and interesting flavor profiles.

Ingredients:
- 2 pounds of fresh strawberries
- 2 pounds of sugar
- 3/4 cup of water

Instructions:
1. Wash and hull the strawberries, removing the stems and any blemishes. Pat them dry gently using a clean kitchen towel.
2. In a preserving kettle, combine the sugar and water to create a syrup. Place the kettle over medium heat and bring the syrup to a boil.
3. Allow the syrup to cook for about ten minutes, or until it begins to thicken slightly. Stir occasionally to prevent the sugar from sticking to the bottom of the kettle.
4. Carefully add the strawberries to the syrup and reduce the heat to medium-low. Cook the berries in the syrup for another ten minutes, gently stirring occasionally to ensure even coating.
5. After ten minutes, remove the kettle from the heat and pour the strawberry mixture into shallow dishes or meat platters. Ensure that the dishes are large enough to spread the strawberries out in a single layer.
6. Cover the dishes with sheets of glass, leaving a small gap for air circulation. The glass will protect the strawberries from insects and debris while allowing the sun's warmth to penetrate.
7. Find a sunny spot, preferably outside, where you can place the dishes. The strawberries will need to sit in the sun for at least two days, but it may take longer depending on the intensity of the sunlight and ambient temperature.
8. Monitor the strawberries regularly during this time, checking the syrup's consistency and the fruit's texture. The juice should gradually thicken, and the berries should become slightly shriveled.
9. Once the desired thickness is achieved, carefully transfer the strawberries into small jars or tumblers. Make sure the containers are clean and dry before adding the fruit.
10. Cover the jars or tumblers according to the recommended instructions for canning. This will ensure the strawberries stay preserved and maintain their flavor and quality for an extended period.

Serve and Enjoy:
Strawberries in the Sun can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are a few suggestions:
- Serve them as a topping for ice cream or yogurt.
- Use them as a filling for cakes, pies, or tarts.
- Blend them into a smoothie or milkshake.
- Enjoy them on their own as a sweet and tangy treat.

Similar Recipe Dishes:
If you enjoyed making and tasting Strawberries in the Sun, you might also enjoy exploring other fruit preservation techniques. Here are a few similar recipe dishes to try:

1. Sun-Dried Tomatoes:
This savory twist on sun drying involves slicing ripe tomatoes and allowing them to sit in the sun until they reach a chewy and concentrated texture. Sun-dried tomatoes are commonly used in Mediterranean and Italian cuisine and can be added to salads, pasta dishes, or used as a flavorful pizza topping.

2. Preserved Citrus:
Preserved lemons or oranges are a tangy and aromatic addition to dishes. The process involves curing the citrus in a mixture of salt and liquid, such as lemon juice or brine. Preserved citrus can be used in tagines, stews, or dressings to add a burst of bright flavor.

3. Fruit Leather:
Fruit leather is a fun and healthy snack made by pureeing and drying fruit until it becomes a chewy and portable treat. It can be made with a variety of fruits, such as berries, apples, or mangoes, and enjoyed as a sweet and nutritious alternative to traditional snacks.

Experimenting with different preservation methods and flavors allows you to discover new and exciting ways to enjoy seasonal fruits. So go ahead and get creative in the kitchen – the possibilities are endless!