How to Macerate Fruit

When it comes to fruit, maceration refers to two different but related processes. In one, you soak the fruit in liquid and allow it to absorb the flavor. In the other, you simply sprinkle cut fruit with sugar, which draws out some of the moisture and lets the fruit soak in its own juices. Both processes give the fruit extra flavor; soaking it in a different liquid lets you add various flavors, while sprinkling it with sugar and allowing it to soak in its own juices makes it sweeter.

Things You'll Need

• Knife, optional
• Nonreactive bowl
• Flavored liquid

Instructions

1. Slice or cut up any fruits you don't want to macerate whole. This might include large fruits such as apples and peaches (from which you should remove the pits) or small fruits you want to serve cut or sliced, such as strawberries. If you're using dried fruit or small fresh fruit, don't worry about slicing or cutting it.

2. Place the fruit in a nonreactive bowl. Add enough of the flavored liquid of your choice to cover the fruit. Options include wine, liquor, juice or even vinegar. If you want to use the sugar method of maceration, sprinkle the cut fruit with enough sugar to coat all of its exposed sides. In this method, consider adding a splash of lemon or lime juice for extra tanginess if you don't want the fruit to be overly sweet.

3. Add any other ingredients you want to use to flavor the fruit. These can range from subtle, such as vanilla or honey, to dramatic and flavorful, such as smoked paprika or cayenne. Other options include various extracts, fresh herbs, ginger, citrus zest, a dash of balsamic vinegar, or anything else you think would add to the flavor of the fruit.

4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid. Allow the fruit to sit for a half hour at the very least. Ideally, you should give it up to a full day. Dried fruit takes longer than fresh fruit, and whole fruits (such as grapes) take longer than sliced ones of the same size. Taste the fruit when you think it should be close to done; this will help you determine whether to continue macerating it or to use it.

References

• Serious Eats: How to Macerate Fruit
• The New York Times: Macerating Fruit for Cool Desserts
• RecipeTips.com: Macerate

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish
• What's Cooking America: Fruit Recipes