How to Make a Raspberry Coulis

A coulis, sometimes referred to as a coolie, is a thick purée of fruit used as a sauce for desserts, a base for soups or an accompaniment to meats such as duck, pork or sausage. It offers a quick way to make sweet vegan desserts even more delicious or to add some interest to savory dishes.

Things You'll Need

• One 1-pound bag frozen raspberries
• 4 tbsp. sugar OR 1 tbsp. agave nectar
• 1 tsp. lemon juice or 1/2 teaspoon vanilla
• Blender or food processor
• Fine sieve

Instructions

1. Combine the raspberries, sugar or agave nectar (if making a vegan coulis), and lemon juice or vanilla in a blender or food processor.

2. Blend. There will be some chunks of fruit left in the mixture.

3. Taste the mixture; if it is not sweet enough, add some more sugar or agave nectar.

4. Pour the mixture through a fine sieve into a bowl, pressing on the fruit to release all of the juices. Keep for up to three days covered in the refrigerator. Serve over ice cream, pound cake or baked apples, or use to baste a roast chicken.

Tips & Warnings

• Agave nectar is a vegan alternative to refined sugar. It is much sweeter than sugar, so you don't need as much in your recipes. If using agave nectar to make the coulis, substitute ½ teaspoon vanilla for the lemon juice.

• Start out with a little sugar or agave nectar for sweetness; you can always add more later.

Resources

• Tips on using agave nectar