Strawberries and balsamic vinegar: The surprising dessert duo

Strawberries taste great in our favourite cocktails, jellies, cakes, compotes, and, of course, on their own, especially when they are super sweet and juicy. Few people know that these fruits pair well with a surprisingly obvious addition. Serve strawberries with vinegar, and jaws will drop in amazement.

Balsamic vinegar is characterized by its dark colour and thick consistency. It has slightly acidic notes with a touch of sweetness, which wonderfully enhances the taste of salads, sauces, dressings, desserts, and fruits. Strawberries bathed in balsamic vinegar gain particular intensity, so it's worth trying this combination.

Instead of eating fresh fruits dipped in vinegar—which might not be particularly convincing—it’s worth preparing a simple, quick, yet incredibly charming and impressive dessert in a bowl. Crushed sponge cakes, homemade whipped cream, and strawberries bathed in vinegar. With this dessert, you will win over the palates of your loved ones.

Ingredients:

• Crushed sponge cakes,
• 300 grams of strawberries,
• 2 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar,
• 400 millilitres of heavy cream,
• 3 tablespoons of sugar,
• Almond flakes,
• Fresh mint or basil leaves,
• Liquor/fruit syrup is used to soak the sponge cakes.

Preparation:

1. Wash and dry the strawberries, then remove the stems. Mix them with the balsamic vinegar and set aside for 15 minutes.
2. Whip the cream until stiff, adding 2 tablespoons of sugar.
3. Sprinkle the strawberries with 1 tablespoon of sugar.
4. Place crushed sponge cakes at the bottom of the bowls or tall glasses, then lightly drizzle them with liquor or syrup.
5. Place some strawberries on the sponge cakes, then add whipped cream.
6. Repeat with more sponge cakes drizzled with liquor or syrup, strawberries, and cream.
7. Chill in the refrigerator for 2 to 3 hours. Decorate the ready dessert with fresh mint or basil.