Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 lb. fresh plums, pitted and chopped
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 vanilla bean, split and scraped
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 2 cups unsweetened apple juice
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Fresh mint leaves, for garnish
Special equipment needed:
- Blender or immersion blender
- Cheesecloth or fine-mesh strainer
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the plums, sugar, water, vanilla bean, and cinnamon stick. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the plums are soft and the liquid has thickened slightly.
2. Remove the cinnamon stick and vanilla bean from the saucepan. Using a blender or immersion blender, puree the plum mixture until smooth.
3. Strain the puree through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh strainer into a large bowl. Discard any solids.
4. Stir in the apple juice and heavy cream until well combined.
5. Chill the soup in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or until cold.
6. To serve, ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh mint leaves.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Chilling time: 1 hour
Temperature:
Serve chilled.
Serving size:
This recipe makes 4 servings.
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 250
Fat: 10g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Protein: 2g
Sodium: 20mg
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 35g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Plums: You can use any other stone fruit, such as peaches or nectarines, instead of plums.
- Apple juice: You can use any other unsweetened fruit juice, such as pear or grape, instead of apple juice.
- Heavy cream: You can use coconut cream or almond milk for a dairy-free option.
Variations:
- Add a splash of brandy or rum to the soup for an adult version.
- Top the soup with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
- Use different spices, such as cardamom or nutmeg, for a different flavor profile.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to remove the cinnamon stick and vanilla bean before blending the soup to avoid any unwanted chunks.
- If the soup is too thick, you can thin it out with more apple juice or water.
- Adjust the amount of sugar based on the sweetness of the plums.
Storage instructions:
Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
Gently reheat the soup on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the soup in clear glass bowls or cups to show off the beautiful color.
Garnishes:
Fresh mint leaves or a dollop of whipped cream.
Pairings:
Serve with a slice of pound cake or shortbread cookies.
Suggested side dishes:
A simple green salad or a cheese plate.
Troubleshooting advice:
If the soup is too sweet, add a squeeze of lemon juice to balance out the flavors.
Food safety advice:
Make sure to wash the plums thoroughly before using them in the recipe.
Food history:
Fruktsoppa, or fruit soup, is a traditional Scandinavian dish that is typically served cold as a dessert or snack.
Flavor profiles:
Sweet, tart, and creamy with hints of vanilla and cinnamon.
Serving suggestions:
Serve as a refreshing dessert or snack on a hot summer day.
Related Categories
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Region: Swedish
Taste: Sweet, Tart, Fruity, Vanilla, Vanilla-Infused