A Summer Berry Galette is a perfect dessert for any occasion. This simple yet delicious treat combines a golden, flaky crust with a juicy, sweet berry filling. Using fresh strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries, this recipe brings out the best of summer’s bounty with just a bit of sugar and lemon juice to enhance the natural flavors.
Making & Handling the Dough
To start, gather 2 3/4 cups of flour, 1 cup of cold butter, 2 tablespoons of sugar, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Mix these ingredients together. Then, slowly add a mixture of 1/2 cup ice-cold water and 1 teaspoon of vinegar until the dough comes together. Shape the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic, and chill it in the fridge for at least 2 hours.
Once chilled, let the dough soften slightly at room temperature. Roll it out on a floured surface into a large rectangle. Carefully transfer the rolled-out dough to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, then set it aside.
Preparing the Berry Filling
In a large bowl, combine 2 pounds of hulled and sliced strawberries, 6 ounces of raspberries, and 6 ounces of blueberries. Add 1 1/2 tablespoons of lemon juice, 1/2 cup of sugar, and a pinch of salt. Toss gently to mix, then let the berries sit for about an hour to release their juices. Assembling and Baking:
After an hour, strain the berries to remove excess juice. Mix the berries with 2 tablespoons of cornstarch and 6 teaspoons of sugar to help thicken the filling. Spread the berry mixture over the prepared dough, leaving a 2-inch border around the edges. Fold the dough edges over the berries, pleating as necessary. Brush the dough with a beaten egg and sprinkle with sugar for a golden finish. Bake in a preheated 350°F oven for 60-65 minutes, until the crust is golden and the filling is bubbly.
Let the galette cool before slicing and serving. This Summer Berry Galette is a versatile dessert that pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla or lemon ice cream. It’s an easy and impressive way to showcase fresh summer berries in a rustic, free-form pie that’s sure to delight family and friends.
The Ultimate Guide to Onions: Varieties, Uses, and Cooking Tips
Exploring Onion Varieties
Onions are a versatile and indispensable ingredient in cuisines around the world, adding depth and flavor to a wide range of dishes. With numerous varieties to choose from, each offering its own unique flavor profile and culinary uses, navigating the world of onions can be overwhelming. Here’s a breakdown of some of the most common onion varieties and their characteristics:
Yellow Onions: Known for their pungent flavor and robust texture, yellow onions are a staple in many kitchens. They are versatile and well-suited for cooking in a variety of dishes, including soups, stews, and stir-fries. Red Onions: With their vibrant color and mild flavor, red onions are popular in salads, sandwiches, and raw preparations. They add a pop of color and a subtle sweetness to dishes.
White Onions: White onions have a milder flavor than yellow onions and are often used in Mexican and Latin American cuisine. They are ideal for raw applications such as salsas and salads, as well as for pickling and marinating.
Sweet Onions: Varieties such as Vidalia, Walla Walla, and Maui are prized for their high sugar content and mild flavor. They are delicious when eaten raw in salads or sandwiches, and they caramelize beautifully when cooked.
Understanding the differences between onion varieties can help you choose the right onion for your culinary needs and preferences.
Tips for Buying and Storing Onions
When buying onions, look for bulbs that are firm, dry, and free from blemishes or signs of sprouting. Avoid onions that feel soft or have moldy spots, as these may indicate spoilage.
Store onions in a cool, dry place with good air circulation, such as a pantry or cellar. Avoid storing onions near potatoes or other fruits and vegetables that emit ethylene gas, as this can cause onions to spoil more quickly.
To extend the shelf life of onions, store them in a breathable container such as a mesh bag or basket. This allows air to circulate around the onions, preventing moisture buildup and prolonging their freshness.
Cooking with Onions: Tips and Techniques
Onions are a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of cooking techniques, including sautéing, caramelizing, and pickling. Here are some tips for cooking with onions:
Sauté onions in oil or butter over medium heat until soft and translucent, stirring occasionally to prevent burning. Caramelize onions by cooking them low and slow until they turn golden brown and sweet, adding a rich flavor to dishes such as French onion soup and caramelized onion tarts.
Pickle onions by soaking them in a mixture of vinegar, sugar, and spices, creating a tangy and flavorful condiment for sandwiches, salads, and tacos. Experiment with different onion varieties and cooking techniques to discover new flavors and enhance your culinary repertoire. With their versatility and depth of flavor, onions are sure to become a staple in your kitchen.