It's already the end of July, how? Here in Southern CA we have a real bounty at the market, and this year's fruit seems to be the best since I moved here four years ago. The stone fruit and melons are starting to pop. But the consistent staples are the strawberries, and that is what I'm writing about today.
Do not, I repeat do not let any peak summer strawberries go to waste. We've waited all winter for these edible angels, so let's sit down and enjoy every last one!
Even the ugly overripe ones that look like they belong in the garbage or compost-- they belong in a storage container covered with honey or sugar, stirred and left to macerate in that sugar with their own sweet juices. Place on your countertop for a few hours (dare I say slightly ferment?) or cover and refrigerate for a few days. Add peach ends and any other stone fruit or berries that are on their way out as well.
Pour macerated fruit and juices onto a silicone or parchment lined half baking sheet. Roast in 375°F oven for about an hour, stirring once or twice so that the ends don't get too dark. They'll be done when the liquid has turned into a syrup and the strawberries look cooked. Pour immediately into a bowl and let cool, otherwise that syrup will harden and be a pain to clean from your pan. Taste. Add a squeeze of lemon juice or splash of cider vinegar if it needs acid. A pinch of salt never hurts. A dash of vanilla might be nice if you want it to taste luxurious. Once cooled, place in a sealed jar and refrigerate, or pour into a storage bag and store flat in your freezer.
The amount of jam my family blows through is absolutely crazy and this "roasted fruit" is like a chunky jam, BUT BETTER, and has replaced anything store bought for months. My 4 yr old asks for "roasted strawberries" on her morning bagel but I prefer it over yogurt with a spoonful of peanut butter and a handful of banana granola.
One question for this no-recipe you might be asking is, "how much sugar?!" Truly, it's up to you. Just know that the less sugar you add, the less time you have to consume it before it spoils. My sugar level preference is "the least amount I can add where my kids will like to eat it." I don't add a lot and it's lasted up to a month before the jar is empty.
Don't hesitate to email any questions and please let me know if you make any version of roasted strawberries or fruit!
- Katy
