π©βπ³ Althea’s Blackberry Sauce π«
What is it?
Althea’s Blackberry Sauce is a delightful, fruity sauce made from fresh blackberries. It’s a versatile condiment that can be used in both sweet and savory dishes. The sauce is known for its rich, tangy, and slightly sweet flavor, making it a fantastic addition to various recipes.
History:
The exact origin of Althea’s Blackberry Sauce may not be well-documented, but blackberry sauces have been enjoyed for centuries. Blackberries have a long history of culinary use, dating back to ancient times. They were a popular ingredient in medieval European cuisine and were used in both sweet and savory dishes. Over time, various recipes for blackberry sauces emerged, and today, they continue to be a beloved condiment in many parts of the world.
Components:
To prepare Althea’s Blackberry Sauce, you’ll need the following components:
- 2 cups of fresh blackberries π«
- 1/2 cup of granulated sugar π
- 1/4 cup of water π§
- 1 tablespoon of lemon juice π
- A pinch of salt π§
Steps to Prepare:
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Wash the Blackberries: Start by thoroughly washing the fresh blackberries under running water. Drain them and set them aside.
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Cook the Blackberries: In a saucepan, combine the blackberries, granulated sugar, and water. Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir gently to dissolve the sugar. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
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Simmer and Stir: Once the mixture is simmering, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes. During this time, use a wooden spoon or spatula to gently mash the blackberries as they soften and release their juices.
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Add Lemon Juice and Salt: After the blackberries have broken down and the mixture has thickened slightly, add the lemon juice and a pinch of salt. The lemon juice adds a lovely tartness that balances the sweetness of the sauce.
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Strain and Cool: Remove the saucepan from heat and let the mixture cool slightly. Then, pour it through a fine-mesh strainer into a bowl to remove any seeds and pulp. You’ll be left with a smooth, velvety sauce.
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Chill and Serve: Allow the sauce to cool to room temperature before transferring it to a clean jar or container. Refrigerate it until it’s cold. This sauce can be stored in the fridge for up to a week.
Time Needed:
The total time needed to prepare Althea’s Blackberry Sauce is approximately 25-30 minutes, including preparation and cooking time. It’s a relatively quick and simple recipe, making it perfect for adding a burst of blackberry flavor to your favorite dishes or desserts. Enjoy! π½οΈπ«π
Certainly! Here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Althea’s Blackberry Sauce:
Nutrition Facts (per 2 tablespoons):
- Calories: Approximately 40 kcal
- Total Fat: 0 grams
- Cholesterol: 0 milligrams
- Sodium: 10 milligrams
- Total Carbohydrates: 10 grams
- Dietary Fiber: 2 grams
- Sugars: 7 grams
- Protein: 0 grams
- Vitamin C: About 10% of the Daily Value (DV)
- Antioxidants: Blackberries are rich in antioxidants, including vitamin C and various phytochemicals, which can help protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals.
Health Information:
- Low in Calories: Althea’s Blackberry Sauce is relatively low in calories, making it a suitable addition to various diets.
- High in Fiber: With 2 grams of dietary fiber per serving, this sauce can contribute to your daily fiber intake, which is essential for digestive health.
- Vitamin C: Blackberries are a good source of vitamin C, which is important for immune system support and collagen production.
- Antioxidants: The antioxidants in blackberries may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases and promote overall health.
- Natural Sweetness: While the sauce contains sugar, it’s primarily from the blackberries themselves, making it a more natural sweetener option than refined sugars.
- Versatile: This sauce can be used in moderation to add flavor to various dishes, from drizzling it over pancakes to using it as a glaze for grilled meats or a topping for yogurt.
Remember that the nutrition facts may vary slightly depending on the specific ingredients and proportions used in your recipe, so it’s a good practice to refer to the packaging of your ingredients for more precise nutritional information if needed.
