How to Make Poached Berries

Poached berries are delicious on top of ice cream or in a variety of different recipes, but they're also sweet and juicy enough to eat just as they are. Poaching is a perfect way to prepare berries that aren't quite ripe enough, or are just a bit on the tart side.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Fresh berries
• Sugar
• Poaching liquid

1. Wash the berries gently under cool running water. Remove any stems or leaves, and discard any soft, bruised, or overripe berries.
2. Mix one part sugar with two parts liquid in a large saucepan, making enough to cover the berries.
3. Place the berries in the liquid, and put a plate on top to make sure they remain completely submerged. Put the saucepan on the stove on medium heat and bring the mixture to a simmer.
4. Simmer the berries for about 5 to 6 minutes, and then check them for readiness. The berries should be tender, but still relatively firm. Continue simmering the berries if necessary, checking often.
5. Remove the berries from the hot water with a slotted spoon and place it in a bowl to cool. Allow the liquid in the saucepan to cool as well.
6. Once the berries and liquid have cooled, put the berries back in the liquid.
7. Serve the poached berries hot, or refrigerate them in a container with a secure lid until you're ready to serve them.

Tips & Warnings

• Poaching liquid can be any liquid that will complement the flavor of the berries. Some suggestions are plain water, fruit juice, rum or whiskey.