Fresh local winter citrus, kiwi and berries
One legitimate lament of diabetics and other carb conscious folks is the lack of sweets and desserts in the diet. One solution I’ve found is making desserts with fruit and using a sugar substitute called Xylitol to add sweet flavor with limited carbs; (the label states that it is “75% fewer carbs than sugar” with “40% fewer calories”). There are 4 gms of carbs per tsp. and 10 calories. (Note: I have no relationship with any Xylitol manufacturers or distributors.)
I use it sparingly in any case, but it definitely makes desserts such as this delicious fruit plate with raspberry sauce taste wonderfully satisfying. It’s also so pretty- a real party pleaser! *
I also use Xylitol in my fresh applesauce; recipe to come.
INGREDIENTS (serves 4-6) (you can use almost any fruit of your choice- this is a winter version featuring local, fresh ripe citrus)
- 3-4 oranges, your choice (for maximum color, I like to use a combination of Cara Cara, blood oranges and sometimes a Navel.)
- 1-2 tangerines
- 1-2 Kiwis
- 1/2 cup blueberries
- 1/3-1/2 cup raspberries
SAUCE:
- 1 bag frozen raspberries
- 1 Tbsp. Lemon juice
- 1-2 Tbsp. Xylitol
- 1-2 Tbsp. Rum or Cognac or water
TO DO
- Make the sauce first so the flavors can meld.
- Pour the frozen raspberries into a deep sided mixing bowl. Let sit for 1/2 hr. to thaw slightly or thaw 3-4 minutes in a microwave. They should still be somewhat frozen.
- Add rum, cognac or water and Xylitol.
- Using a hand mixer or stick immersion Mini pimmer, mix til the consistency is thick but liquid enough to pour; somewhat the consistency of Hollandaise sauce. Add lemon juice and additional liquid in small amounts if needed.
- Peel and slice fruit into rounds. (Obviously not the berries (<*)
- Lay fruit in a circular pattern on a large round, preferably glass, plate or platter. Start with larger pieces, then smaller on top, (I like the Kiwii rounds on the top of the orange pieces), with edges overlapping. Finish with berries as a garnish.
- Serve with sauce; I add a bit over the plate and offer the rest of the sauce in a gravy dish with a small ladle.
* I’ve produced a video demonstrating making this dessert; to be featured soon on the blog. Stay tuned!
This has been the hit of any parties I’ve brought it too. Hopefully you have the same experience!
Enjoy!
Type2 Delicious 