Shortcake And More

1. 1

   For 4 people, use 2 cups or more of raw, well-rinsed berries - strawberries, raspberries, blackberries or a combination.

2. 2

   Crush about half of them gently with a fork, just to set the juices running.

3. 3

   Add sugar to taste, depending on the berries' sweetness and ripeness.

4. 4

   Set them aside, covered, in a cool place for at least 30 minutes to develop flavor.

5. 5

   Gooseberries, another old-fashioned favorite for fool, must be cooked first.

6. 6

   Stew 2 cups of gooseberries with about 1/2 cup of sugar just until the berries burst.

7. 7

   Taste for sweetness, and add more sugar if necessary.

8. 8

   Let cool before proceeding with the recipe.

9. 9

   Measure the crushed berries, and pour out an equal amount of whipping cream.

10. 10

    Beat the cream just until it holds a gentle shape.

11. 11

    Fold the berries into the cream so there is a pleasing contrast of dark berries and pale cream.

12. 12

    Serve in a large glass bowl or in individual sorbet cups.

No additional tips available.