Fantasy Strawberries

Although we can get mediocre strawberries now year-round, and even decent ones from warmer climates starting in late April or so, around these parts and in many of the chillier areas of the northern hemisphere, June marks the real start of the season.

This past week I has the opportunity to visit a fabled 3-starred restaurant in the Bourgogne (Burgundy) region of France, Marc Meneau L'Esperance. It was such an absorbing experience that I still have to digest it, in the philosophical sense, before I can do justice to it in writing. However, one small part of the amazing experience that was a pure and simple joy to behold and to taste, was this dazzling plate of fresh strawberries and raspberries.

strawberries_meneau1.jpg

The perfect, sweet berries are presented in 3 ways: unadorned, bejeweled with sugar crystals, and with a tiny drop each of balsamic vinegar. The sugared berries are nestled on a bed of spun sugar. Doesn't it look like something that might have been presented to a fairy queen or a princess?

strawberries_meneau2.jpg

While replicating the spun sugar may be a bit of a problem, the rest could be emulated even in a humble home kitchen. The main magic of this though is getting hold of perfect berries. What about a truly indulgent June brunch with brioche and a plate of fresh berries?

After a brief stop at home to take care of stuff, I'm off again for a long-awaited 2 week stay in Provence. Our overworked selves sort of need a 'real' vacation, so my online time will be very limited, but I am bringing along the trusty Powerbook to take lots of notes and of course, lots and lots of photos. (I won't be able to reply to emails or comments much until I get back. Thanks for your patience!)

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Comments

Have a wonderful time in Provence, cant wait to hear about the dinner though, I live for nights at starred restaurants even though its usually only for birthdays or anniversaries.

happy travels!

Have a great time in Provence!!

have a great trip! jealous.

wow, those look amazing. I wanted to try the sugar crystals myself. it looks like it'd be simple, but I can't find out how to do it anywhere.. please help! D:

Hi D,

I will try to post something about sugaring fruit sometime, but basically what you do is to dip the fruit in lightly whipped egg white, then dust the fruit with granulated or decorating sugar, shake off the excess and dry it on a rack. If the idea of using raw egg white turns you off (and you do need pasteurized fresh eggs to be safe) you can use powdered egg white instead.

how do u get the spun sugar white ?