Gooseberry Fool (Irish)

Fools are simple desserts based on fresh seasonal fruit, crushed or puréed and mixed with cream. (The name comes from the French fouler, “to crush.”) They have been known in Ireland at least since the mid-eighteenth century.

1 cup sugar (200 g)
1 lb gooseberries (500 g)
1-2 cups heavy cream, lightly whipped (240-475 mL)

Combine the sugar and 1 cup (240 mL) of water into a medium saucepan and bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring constantly. Immediately reduce the heat to low and continue cooking, stirring constantly, for 2 minutes to make a syrup.

Add the gooseberries to the syrup and return to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce the heat to medium and cook for 6-8 minutes or until the gooseberries begin to crack.

Purée the fruit with the syrup coarsely in a blender or food processor; then set aside to cool. When fruit has cooled to room temperature, measure it into a medium bowl and add half that volume in whipped cream. Stir together gently, then refrigerate for 1-2 hours before serving.

Makes 4-6 servings.