Raspberry puree is a versatile ingredient used in many desserts, smoothies, and more. But what exactly goes into making this bright red spread? Here is a comprehensive look at how raspberry puree is made.
The Main Ingredients
There are only two main ingredients that go into making raspberry puree – raspberries and sugar.
Raspberries
Fresh or frozen raspberries are the star of raspberry puree. The berries provide the puree’s signature red color, sweet and tart flavor, and smooth, seedy texture.
When making puree, ripe, peak season raspberries are ideal. However, high-quality frozen raspberries work great too and allow you to enjoy raspberry puree year-round.
Sugar
Sugar is added to raspberry puree as a sweetening agent and preservative. White granulated sugar is most commonly used. The amount added depends on how sweet you want the final puree to be.
Some puree recipes also include other sweeteners like honey or maple syrup. But plain sugar is the simplest option.
How Raspberry Puree is Made
While raspberry puree only requires two ingredients, there are some key steps involved in preparing it:
Step 1: Wash and Pick Over the Berries
Whether using fresh or thawed frozen raspberries, the first step is washing them. This removes any dirt or debris. Fresh berries should also be gently picked over to remove any crushed or moldy ones.
Step 2: Mix the Berries and Sugar
Next, the cleaned berries and sugar are combined in a pot or food processor. A ratio of about 2 cups of raspberries to 1/4 cup of sugar is common. But you can adjust more or less sugar to taste.
Step 3: Cook the Mixture
The berry-sugar mixture is then heated and cooked down into a puree. This can be done either on the stovetop or in a food processor.
For stovetop methods, the goal is to bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Then cook, stirring frequently, for about 10 minutes until the berries fully break down and the juice thickens.
Food processor methods involve simply pureeing the ingredients until smooth.
Step 4: Let the Puree Cool and Thicken
Once cooked, the puree should be transferred to a heat-safe container and allowed to cool. As it cools, the puree will thicken up to a spreadable consistency.
Letting it chill fully in the fridge for 1-2 hours helps the puree set.
Step 5: Store Properly
The finished raspberry puree can be transferred to an airtight container or jar. Properly stored, it will keep in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 weeks.
For longer term storage, the puree can be frozen for 4-6 months.
Common Add-Ins and Variations
While raspberries and sugar make up the base of this puree, some recipes include additional ingredients to alter the flavor.
Lemon Juice
A small amount of lemon juice is sometimes mixed in. The citric acid helps balance out the sweetness and enhances the berry flavor.
Spices
Warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, or cardamom complement the berries nicely. Just a pinch or two is needed.
Vanilla
Vanilla extract or vanilla bean seeds can add extra depth and aroma.
Liqueur
For an adult twist, a splash of Chambord or other raspberry liqueur brings out more fruity flavor.
Uses for Raspberry Puree
Raspberry puree is hugely versatile in both sweet and savory cooking. Here are some of the top ways it is used:
Smoothies
Swirling a spoonful of raspberry puree into your morning smoothie makes it extra creamy and fruity.
Yogurt Parfaits
Layering raspberry puree with Greek yogurt and granola is an easy way to dress up a parfait.
Oatmeal
Stir a dollop of the puree into oatmeal for a nutrition and flavor boost.
Pancakes and Waffles
Blending some raspberry puree into batter results in bright, fruity baked goods.
| Baked Good | Amount of Raspberry Puree |
|---|---|
| Pancakes | 1/4 cup |
| Waffles | 1/3 cup |
Cakes and Muffins
Folding puree into cake or muffin batter adds moisture and raspberry flavor in every bite.
Frostings and Fillings
Swirl puree into buttercream frosting or use as a fruit filling between cake layers.
Cookies
Scoop dollops of the puree onto cookie dough before baking for melty berry pockets.
Ice Cream and Sorbet
Mix into ice cream bases or churn into sorbet for cool, creamy raspberry desserts.
Custards and Puddings
Stir a tablespoon or two of puree into vanilla custards or chia pudding for pretty color and flavor.
Jams and Preserves
Blend with low sugar pectin to make reduced-sugar raspberry jam.
Vinaigrettes
Shake up a quick berry vinaigrette for salads by emulsifying with olive oil and vinegar.
Sauces
Simmer gently with chicken or vegetable stock for a lovely fruit sauce.
Glazes
Brush over chicken, pork, or even fruits like peaches before roasting or grilling.
Health Benefits of Raspberries
Beyond being delicious, raspberries and raspberry puree offer great nutrition:
High in Antioxidants
Raspberries contain antioxidants like vitamin C, quercetin, and gallic acid. These support the immune system and may help prevent chronic diseases.
Rich in Fiber
The seeds provide around 8 grams of fiber per cup. Fiber aids digestion and gut health.
Low Glycemic Index
Despite their sweetness, raspberries don’t spike blood sugar. Their glycemic index is only 32.
May Support Heart Health
Some research indicates raspberries improve LDL cholesterol, lower blood pressure, and decrease inflammation.
May Help Control Blood Sugar
Compounds in raspberries may slow digestion of carbs and inhibit enzymes related to diabetes.
Conclusion
Raspberry puree simply contains raspberries and a bit of sugar cooked down to a smooth spread. But within this short ingredient list lies a world of sweet-tart flavor and pink vibrancy. Raspberry puree brings nutrition and versatility to so many recipes. Keeping a batch in the fridge lets you easily give breakfasts, baked goods, salads, meats, and more a boost of summer anytime.