Fresh Strawberries and Champagne Recipe

Fresh Strawberries with Reduced Balsamic
and Freshly Ground Black Pepper

Recipe by Jackie Cameron

A five-course dinner party sounds extremely lavish. My guests, however, expect nothing less! With little available social time on my hands I wow my friends with fresh flavours and quick, clever substitutes. Food that is stress free allows me to enjoy my dinner party.

My choice of arrival nibble is irresistible ruby-red, plump strawberries. Topped with reduced balsamic and freshly ground black pepper and served with Champagne, it is an out-of-the-ordinary extravaganza of sweet and savoury combinations which mingle with the lightness of bubbles. Simply delicious!

Yields: 4

Ingredients :

500g Strawberries

2 cups Balsamic Vinegar

Freshly ground Black Pepper to taste

Method :

1) Wash and dry strawberries and set aside

2) Place balsamic vinegar into a small saucepan and bring to the boil. Reduce the heat and simmer (chef’s note: to prevent the reduction from becoming bitter) until a half a cup of liquid is left and set aside

3) On service drizzle the strawberries with balsamic vinegar and give a good grinding of black pepper and serve with champagne

Please post your comments and any food-related questions below.

I look forward to hearing from you.

Jackie Cameron
Head Chef
Hartford House
www.hartford.co.za
jackie@hartford.co.za
+27 33 263 2713