Are you ready to elevate your smoothies, cocktails, or even desserts with a burst of fresh strawberry flavor? Look no further! This easy strawberry puree recipe is perfect for homemade cooking, adding a delicious and healthy touch to your favorite beverages. It's a simple recipe that delivers big on flavor, making it one of the best recipes for those busy weeknights when you still crave something special.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced (about 2 cups)
- 1/4 cup water (adjust as needed for desired consistency)
- 2 tablespoons sugar or honey (optional, adjust to your sweetness preference)
- 1/4 teaspoon lemon juice (optional, helps preserve color and adds brightness)
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Begin by washing and hulling your fresh strawberries. Slicing them into smaller pieces will help them blend more smoothly.
Making the Puree:
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Combine the strawberries, water, sugar (or honey if using), and lemon juice (if using) in a blender or food processor.
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Blend until completely smooth. You might need to stop and scrape down the sides a few times, especially if using a blender. If the puree is too thick, add a tablespoon of water at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
Finishing Touches:
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Taste and adjust sweetness as needed. If you prefer a sweeter puree, add more sugar or honey. A touch of lemon juice can really brighten the flavor.
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Strain the puree through a fine-mesh sieve (optional) to remove seeds for a super smooth texture. This step is entirely optional, depending on your preference.
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Store the puree in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it in ice cube trays for longer storage – simply pop out the frozen cubes as needed.
Tips and Variations:
- For a thicker puree: Reduce the amount of water or add a few frozen strawberries to the mix.
- For a richer flavor: Add a splash of orange liqueur (like Cointreau or Grand Marnier) to the puree. This works beautifully in cocktails!
- Spice it up: A pinch of ground cardamom or cinnamon adds a warm, comforting note to the puree.
- Make it vegan: Simply omit the honey and use maple syrup or agave nectar instead for a delicious vegan alternative.
- This simple puree is a fantastic addition to yogurt parfaits, ice cream, or as a glaze for cakes.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate, without added sugar):
- Calories: Approximately 50-60
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 12-15g
- Fiber: Approximately 2g
- Vitamin C: A good source
This easy-to-make strawberry puree is a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire. Whether you’re crafting quick dinner ideas or looking for healthy meal options, this recipe is a delicious and convenient way to enjoy the fresh taste of strawberries any time of year. It's perfect for smoothies, cocktails, desserts – the possibilities are endless! Enjoy!