Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 2 cups water
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
- Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream, for serving
Special equipment needed:
- Fine mesh strainer
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the cherries, sugar, cornstarch, and water. Stir well to combine.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring frequently.
3. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the cherries have softened and the mixture has thickened.
4. Remove the pan from the heat and let the mixture cool for 5 minutes.
5. Using a fine mesh strainer, strain the mixture into a bowl, pressing on the solids to extract as much liquid as possible.
6. Stir in the vanilla and almond extracts.
7. Chill the kissel in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or until cold.
8. Serve the kissel topped with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Temperature:
Medium-high heat for boiling, low heat for simmering.
Serving size:
This recipe serves 4.
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 190
Fat: 0.5g
Carbohydrates: 47g
Protein: 1g
Sodium: 5mg
Sugar: 36g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Fresh cherries can be substituted with frozen cherries.
- Almond extract can be substituted with cherry liqueur.
Variations:
- Use other types of fruit, such as raspberries or strawberries, in place of cherries.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for extra flavor.
Tips and tricks:
- Be sure to press on the solids when straining the mixture to extract as much liquid as possible.
- Chill the kissel for at least 2 hours to allow it to thicken and set.
Storage instructions:
Store the kissel in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
Reheat the kissel in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently, until warmed through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the kissel in individual bowls or glasses, topped with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
Garnishes:
Garnish with fresh cherries or mint leaves.
Pairings:
Pair with a light dessert, such as angel food cake or shortbread cookies.
Suggested side dishes:
Serve with a side of fresh fruit or a green salad.
Troubleshooting advice:
If the kissel is too thick, add a splash of water to thin it out. If it is too thin, simmer it for a few more minutes to thicken.
Food safety advice:
Be sure to properly wash and pit the cherries before using them in the recipe.
Food history:
Kissel is a traditional Russian dessert made from fruit juice or puree thickened with cornstarch.
Flavor profiles:
This cherry kissel is sweet and tart, with a hint of vanilla and almond.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the kissel as a light and refreshing dessert after a heavy meal.
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Region: Russian