Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This strawberry sauce is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal cooking time, you can create a vibrant, flavorful topping that complements a wide range of dishes. Its versatility allows you to use it on pancakes, waffles, ice cream, cheesecakes, or even as a glaze for meats.
Ingredients
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4 cups fresh or frozen strawberries, chopped
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½ cup granulated sugar
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1 tablespoon lemon juice
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4 tablespoons water, divided
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1 tablespoon cornstarch
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
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In a medium saucepan, combine the chopped strawberries, sugar, lemon juice, and 2 tablespoons of water.
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Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally.
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Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for 3-4 minutes, or until the strawberries soften.
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In a small bowl, mix the remaining 2 tablespoons of water with the cornstarch until smooth.
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Add the cornstarch mixture to the saucepan, stirring constantly.
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Continue to cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
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Remove from heat and allow the sauce to cool.
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Serve warm or refrigerate to use later.
Servings and Timing
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Servings: Approximately 6 servings
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Prep Time: 5 minutes
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Cook Time: 10 minutes
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Total Time: 15 minutes
Variations
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Sugar-Free Version: Replace granulated sugar with a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit sweetener.
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Citrus Twist: Add orange zest along with the lemon juice for a citrusy flavor.
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Chunky Texture: For a chunkier sauce, reduce the cooking time slightly and stir less frequently.
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Smooth Sauce: Blend the sauce after cooking for a smooth consistency.
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Spiced Version: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spiced flavor.
Storage/Reheating
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Refrigeration: Store the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
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Freezing: Freeze the sauce in small portions for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before use.
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Reheating: Reheat the sauce in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
FAQs
How do I make clear strawberry sauce?
To achieve a clearer sauce, use unflavored gelatin instead of cornstarch. Dissolve the gelatin in water and add it to the strawberry mixture during the simmering process.
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, frozen strawberries work well in this recipe. There’s no need to thaw them before use.
How do I thicken strawberry sauce without cornstarch?
Arrowroot powder or tapioca starch can be used as alternatives to cornstarch for thickening.
Can I make this sauce without sugar?
Yes, you can omit the sugar or use a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup. Adjust the quantity to taste.
How can I make the sauce spicier?
Add a small amount of finely chopped fresh chili or a dash of cayenne pepper to the sauce during the simmering process.
Is this sauce suitable for vegans?
Yes, this recipe is vegan-friendly as it contains no animal products.
Can I use this sauce as a glaze for meats?
Absolutely! This strawberry sauce makes a delightful glaze for grilled meats like chicken.
How do I prevent the sauce from becoming too thick?
If the sauce becomes too thick, add a little water to reach your desired consistency.
Can I use other fruits in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute strawberries with other berries like raspberries, blueberries, or blackberries.
How do I make a sugar-free version of this sauce?
Use a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit sweetener in place of granulated sugar.
Conclusion
This easy strawberry sauce is a versatile and quick recipe that enhances a variety of dishes with its fresh, fruity flavor. Whether you’re topping your favorite dessert or adding a unique twist to your meals, this sauce is sure to impress. With simple ingredients and minimal preparation, it’s a must-try for any strawberry lover.
Easy Strawberry Sauce Recipe
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A quick and versatile strawberry sauce that adds fresh, fruity flavor to desserts, breakfasts, and savory dishes.
- Author: Paula
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings
- Category: Sauce/Topping
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan
Ingredients
4 cups fresh or frozen strawberries, chopped
½ cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon lemon juice
4 tablespoons water, divided
1 tablespoon cornstarch
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine the chopped strawberries, sugar, lemon juice, and 2 tablespoons of water.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for 3-4 minutes, or until the strawberries soften.
- In a small bowl, mix the remaining 2 tablespoons of water with the cornstarch until smooth.
- Add the cornstarch mixture to the saucepan, stirring constantly.
- Continue to cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
- Remove from heat and allow the sauce to cool.
- Serve warm or refrigerate to use later.
Notes
- For a sugar-free version, replace granulated sugar with stevia or monk fruit sweetener.
- Add orange zest with lemon juice for a citrus twist.
- Reduce cooking time and stir less for a chunkier sauce.
- Blend the sauce after cooking for a smooth texture.
- Add cinnamon or nutmeg for a spiced flavor.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator up to 5 days.
- Freeze in portions for up to 3 months; thaw before use.
- Reheat gently on low heat, stirring occasionally.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: About 1/6 of the recipe
- Calories: 70
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 1mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg