Welcome to Dr. Ben’s Kitchen! Today, we’re diving into a delightful dessert that combines the sweetness of seasonal fruits, a splash of alcohol, and a touch of fire. This flambéed dessert is not only a feast for the eyes but also a treat for the taste buds. With strawberries and blueberries as our stars, this recipe is simple yet gourmet, perfect for impressing your guests or indulging yourself. Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients List

• 2 cups strawberries, washed and quartered
• 2 cups blueberries, washed
• 1/4 cup bourbon, whiskey, brandy, or vodka
• 1 oz. triple sec (or any other fruit liqueur)
• 4 tablespoons honey
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon (or to taste)
• 2 scoops vanilla ice cream (for serving)
• 1 edible flower or mint sprig (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Fruit: Start by washing your strawberries and blueberries. Cut the strawberries into quarters. Blueberries can remain whole.
2. Place the fruit in a pan.
3. Add Alcohol: Pour in the bourbon and triple sec. Add the honey and a dusting of cinnamon. Turn burner on high heat.
4. Ignite the Mixture: For safety, ensure the pan is cold before adding the alcohol. Once everything is in the pan, bring it to a boil and carefully light it up. Stand back when lighting mixture to avoid burning yourself.
5. Cook Down the Sauce: Allow the mixture to cook until it reduces and thickens into a syrupy consistency. The blueberries will gently break apart, creating a delicious sauce, while the strawberries will soften.
6. Serve: Once the sauce has reached the desired consistency, remove it from the heat. Scoop vanilla ice cream into bowls and ladle the flambéed fruit mixture over the top.
7. Garnish: For an elegant touch, add an edible flower on top of the dessert.

Tips for a Better Dish

• Choose Seasonal Fruits: Using fresh, in-season strawberries and blueberries will enhance the flavor of your dish.
• Experiment with Liqueurs: Feel free to try different flavored liqueurs to find your favorite combination.
• Safety First: Always add alcohol to a cold pan to prevent accidental ignition. If you’re new to flambéing, practice caution and consider having a fire extinguisher nearby.
• Presentation Matters: Serve the dessert in clear bowls to showcase the vibrant colors of the fruit and the ice cream.

Conclusion

This flambéed strawberries and blueberries dessert is a showstopper that combines the thrill of fire with the sweetness of fruit and creaminess of ice cream. It’s a perfect way to end a meal on a high note. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a gourmet dessert that’s sure to impress! Happy cooking!