Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
- 1 cup shelled pistachios
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Special equipment needed:
- Food processor
- Candy thermometer
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a food processor, pulse the pistachios until finely ground. Set aside.
2. In a large saucepan, combine the chopped strawberries, sugar, water, lemon juice, and salt. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally.
3. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the mixture has thickened and the strawberries have broken down.
4. Remove the pan from the heat and let the mixture cool for 10 minutes.
5. Transfer the mixture to the food processor and pulse until smooth.
6. Return the mixture to the saucepan and stir in the ground pistachios.
7. Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens and pulls away from the sides of the pan. This should take about 20-25 minutes.
8. Once the mixture has thickened, remove it from the heat and let it cool to room temperature.
9. Transfer the lekvar to a jar or container and store in the refrigerator.
- Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Temperature:
- Medium-high heat
- Medium-low heat
Serving size:
- Makes about 2 cups of lekvar
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 120 per 2 tablespoons
- Fat: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Protein: 2g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use any type of nut in place of the pistachios, such as almonds or walnuts.
- If you don't have fresh strawberries, you can use frozen strawberries instead.
Variations:
- You can add a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the lekvar for extra flavor.
- You can also add a pinch of cinnamon or cardamom for a spiced version.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to stir the lekvar constantly while cooking to prevent it from burning.
- If the lekvar is too thick, you can add a tablespoon of water at a time until it reaches your desired consistency.
Storage instructions:
- Store the lekvar in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Reheating instructions:
- The lekvar can be served cold or at room temperature. If you prefer it warm, you can heat it in the microwave for a few seconds or in a small saucepan over low heat.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the lekvar in a small bowl or jar with a spoon for easy serving.
Garnishes:
- You can garnish the lekvar with chopped pistachios or fresh strawberries.
Pairings:
- The lekvar pairs well with toast, croissants, or scones.
Suggested side dishes:
- Serve the lekvar with a side of fresh fruit or yogurt for a balanced breakfast or snack.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the lekvar is too thin, you can cook it for a few more minutes until it thickens.
- If the lekvar is too thick, you can add a tablespoon of water at a time until it reaches your desired consistency.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to use a clean and dry spoon when serving the lekvar to prevent contamination.
Food history:
- Lekvar is a traditional Hungarian fruit spread made from cooked fruit and sugar.
Flavor profiles:
- The lekvar has a sweet and tangy flavor from the strawberries and lemon juice, with a nutty undertone from the pistachios.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the lekvar as a spread on toast, croissants, or scones for a delicious breakfast or snack.
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