Are you looking for a burst of flavor to add some excitement to your meals? Look no further than the humble Cape gooseberry! Native to South Africa, this tiny fruit packs a punch with its sweet and tangy taste. And the best part? It’s incredibly versatile, making it perfect for both sweet and savory dishes.
In this article, we’ll be exploring 20 delicious Cape gooseberry recipes that are sure to impress your family and friends. From classic desserts like tart and jam, to creative twists like BBQ sauce and infused vodka, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, these recipes are sure to inspire you to get cooking with this incredible fruit.
So what are you waiting for? Dive in and discover the amazing world of Cape gooseberry recipes!
Cape Gooseberry and Vanilla Jam
This homemade Cape Gooseberry and Vanilla Jam recipe brings together the unique flavor of cape gooseberries with the warmth of vanilla, creating a delicious spread for toast, scones, or as a topping for yogurt or ice cream.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cape gooseberries
– 2 cups granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Rinse the cape gooseberries and remove any stems or leaves.
2. Combine the cape gooseberries, sugar, water, vanilla extract, and lemon juice in a medium saucepan.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the jam has thickened and passed the “wrinkle test”.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before transferring to an airtight container.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cape Gooseberry Tart with Almond Crust
Cape Gooseberry Tart with Almond Crust: A sweet and tangy dessert that combines the flavors of tart Cape gooseberries with a rich almond crust, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Cape gooseberries (or other tart berries)
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg, beaten
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a food processor, combine almonds, flour, and sugar; process until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Add melted butter and mix until dough forms.
4. Press dough into a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.
5. Arrange Cape gooseberries on top of crust, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
6. Brush edges with beaten egg for glaze.
7. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until crust is golden and berries are tender.
8. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Cape Gooseberry Chutney with Ginger
This sweet and tangy chutney is a perfect accompaniment to grilled meats, cheeses, or as a dip for snacks. The addition of fresh ginger adds a warm, aromatic flavor that complements the unique taste of cape gooseberries.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cape gooseberries (also known as physalis)
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1-inch piece fresh ginger, grated
– 1 cup sugar
– 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the cape gooseberries and remove any stems or leaves.
2. In a large saucepan, combine chopped onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Cook over medium heat until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the cape gooseberries, sugar, apple cider vinegar, water, salt, and pepper to the saucepan. Stir well to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the chutney has thickened slightly.
5. Remove from heat and let cool before transferring to an airtight container.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Cape Gooseberry Sorbet with Mint
This refreshing sorbet combines the sweet and tangy flavors of Cape gooseberries with the cooling essence of mint, perfect for hot summer days. With just a few simple ingredients and no cooking required, this recipe is a quick and easy way to beat the heat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Cape gooseberries (also known as Physalis)
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup water
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
– Lemon juice (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the Cape gooseberries and remove any stems or leaves.
2. In a blender or food processor, puree the gooseberries with the sugar and water until smooth.
3. Stir in the fresh mint leaves.
4. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
5. Once frozen, scoop the sorbet into bowls and add a squeeze of lemon juice if desired.
Cooking Time: None required! Let your ice cream maker do the work for you.
Cape Gooseberry and White Chocolate Mousse
A sweet and tangy combination of fresh Cape gooseberries and rich white chocolate comes together to create a light and airy mousse, perfect for warm weather or as a unique dessert option.
Ingredients:
– 250g white chocolate chips
– 1 cup Cape gooseberries (fresh or frozen)
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
Instructions:
1. In a blender, puree the Cape gooseberries until smooth.
2. Melt the white chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
3. In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream and granulated sugar until stiff peaks form.
4. Fold the melted white chocolate into the whipped cream until well combined.
5. Stir in the Cape gooseberry puree and kosher salt.
6. Pour the mousse into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
7. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: None, as this is an uncooked dessert.
Cape Gooseberry Upside-Down Cake
Cape Gooseberry Upside-Down Cake Recipe
A sweet and tangy delight, this Cape Gooseberry Upside-Down Cake is a unique dessert that showcases the flavors of these small, golden fruits. With their sweet-tart taste and slightly crunchy texture, cape gooseberries add a delightful twist to a classic upside-down cake.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cape gooseberries
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract.
3. Add flour, baking powder, and salt to the wet ingredients; stir until just combined.
4. Arrange cape gooseberries in a single layer on top of the batter in the prepared baking dish.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Remove from oven and let cool for 10 minutes before flipping onto a serving plate.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Cape Gooseberry and Coconut Smoothie
A refreshing and nutritious blend of sweet cape gooseberries and creamy coconut, perfect for a hot summer day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cape gooseberries
– 1/2 cup chilled coconut milk
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Ice cubes (optional)
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Combine the cape gooseberries, coconut milk, and Greek yogurt in a blender.
2. Add the honey and blend until smooth.
3. Taste and adjust sweetness or consistency as needed.
4. Pour into glasses and serve immediately. If desired, add ice cubes and blend again to chill.
5. Garnish with fresh mint leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (blended in seconds!)
Cape Gooseberry Salad with Feta and Arugula
This refreshing salad combines the sweetness of cape gooseberries with the tanginess of feta cheese, all on a bed of peppery arugula. Perfect for a light and flavorful lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cape gooseberries (also known as physalis)
– 4 oz feta cheese, crumbled
– 4 cups arugula leaves
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the cape gooseberries and pat dry with a paper towel.
2. Cut the stems off the gooseberries, then halve or quarter them depending on their size.
3. In a large bowl, combine the arugula leaves, crumbled feta cheese, and cape gooseberry halves.
4. Drizzle the olive oil and balsamic vinegar over the salad and toss to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Cape Gooseberry and Lemon Curd Pavlova
A twist on the classic pavlova, this dessert combines the sweetness of cape gooseberries with the tanginess of lemon curd, all atop a crispy meringue base.
Ingredients:
– 3 large egg whites
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup cape gooseberries (also known as Physalis), chopped
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup heavy cream, whipped
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 150°C (300°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, beat egg whites and granulated sugar until stiff peaks form.
3. Spread the meringue mixture onto the prepared baking sheet.
4. Bake for 1 1/2 hours, or until crisp and dry.
5. In a separate bowl, mix together cape gooseberries, lemon juice, and melted butter.
6. Spoon the whipped cream over the baked meringue base.
7. Top with the cape gooseberry and lemon curd mixture.
8. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Cape Gooseberry BBQ Sauce for Grilled Meats
Elevate your grilled meats with a unique and delicious twist from South Africa – Cape Gooseberry BBQ Sauce! This sweet and tangy sauce is perfect for slathering on ribs, chicken, steak, or pork chops before grilling.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup ketchup
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup Cape gooseberry jam (or substitute with apricot jam)
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine ketchup, brown sugar, Cape gooseberry jam, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and smoked paprika.
2. Whisk until smooth, then bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Reduce heat to low and let sauce cook for 5-7 minutes or until thickened slightly.
4. Remove from heat and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: None (sauce can be made ahead of time and refrigerated for up to 2 weeks)
Cape Gooseberry and Yogurt Parfait
Combine the sweetness of cape gooseberries with the creaminess of yogurt for a refreshing parfait that’s perfect for any occasion. This simple recipe requires just a few ingredients and is ready to devour in minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cape gooseberries, washed and dried
– 1 cup plain yogurt
– 2 tablespoons granola
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Fresh mint leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the yogurt and honey until well combined.
2. Layer the yogurt mixture with the cape gooseberries in a glass or parfait dish.
3. Sprinkle the granola over the top of the yogurt layer.
4. Garnish with chopped fresh mint leaves, if desired.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Cape Gooseberry and Dark Chocolate Truffles
Discover the sweet and tangy combination of cape gooseberries and dark chocolate in these decadent truffles.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cape gooseberries, pureed
– 8 oz dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
2. Melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval.
3. Stir the pureed cape gooseberries into the melted chocolate until well combined.
4. Fold the whipped cream into the chocolate mixture until smooth.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld.
6. Scoop the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Roll each ball between your hands to shape.
7. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: None required! These truffles are best served chilled, straight from the refrigerator.
Cape Gooseberry and Cardamom Ice Cream
This unique ice cream flavor combines the sweet and tangy taste of Cape gooseberries with the warm, aromatic spice of cardamom. The result is a refreshing dessert that’s perfect for hot summer days.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup Cape gooseberry jam or preserves
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine cream, milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
2. Remove from heat and stir in Cape gooseberry jam and ground cardamom. Let it steep for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container. Cover and refrigerate until chilled, at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. Once chilled, pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
5. Freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes + chilling time
Cape Gooseberry and Lime Cheesecake
This refreshing cheesecake combines the sweetness of Cape gooseberries with the brightness of lime, creating a unique flavor profile that’s perfect for warm weather. This easy-to-make dessert is sure to impress your friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup Cape gooseberry puree
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Mix crust ingredients and press into a 9-inch springform pan.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth, then add sour cream and sugar; mix well.
4. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
5. Stir in Cape gooseberry puree, lime juice, and vanilla extract.
6. Pour cheesecake mixture into crust-lined pan.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until edges are set.
8. Let cool completely before refrigerating for at least 4 hours.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Cape Gooseberry and Hazelnut Granola Bars
Elevate your snack game with these sweet and nutty granola bars, featuring the unique flavor of Cape gooseberries (also known as Physalis) and crunchy hazelnuts.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup Cape gooseberry jam
– 1/2 cup chopped hazelnuts
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix together oats, Cape gooseberry jam, hazelnuts, honey, brown sugar, and vanilla extract until well combined.
3. Press the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly golden.
5. Remove from oven and let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cape Gooseberry and Thyme Roasted Chicken
Elevate your roast chicken game with the sweet and savory combination of Cape gooseberries and thyme. This simple yet impressive recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup Cape gooseberry jam or preserves
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, Cape gooseberry jam, and chopped thyme.
4. Rub the mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Place the chicken in a roasting pan and roast for 45-50 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Cape Gooseberry and Pomegranate Salsa
This vibrant salsa combines the tartness of cape gooseberries with the sweetness of pomegranate, perfect for topping tacos or grilled meats.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cape gooseberries (husked and chopped)
– 1 cup pomegranate seeds
– 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine cape gooseberries, pomegranate seeds, red onion, and jalapeño pepper.
2. Squeeze lime juice over the mixture and toss to coat.
3. Season with salt to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Just before serving, garnish with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (prep) + chilling time
Cape Gooseberry and Ricotta Stuffed Crepes
A sweet and tangy twist on the classic French crepe, this recipe combines the flavors of Cape gooseberries (also known as physalis) with creamy ricotta cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Cape gooseberries, fresh or frozen
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 12 crepe batter (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, combine Cape gooseberries, ricotta cheese, eggs, milk, sugar, and salt. Mix well.
3. Lay a crepe flat and spoon about 2 tablespoons of the filling mixture onto one half of the crepe.
4. Fold the crepe in half to enclose the filling.
5. Repeat with remaining crepes and filling.
6. Place the stuffed crepes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cape Gooseberry and Rosemary Infused Vodka
Elevate your cocktail game with this unique infusion of Cape gooseberries and rosemary, adding a tangy sweetness and herbaceous depth to your vodka.
Ingredients:
– 1 liter high-quality vodka
– 1 cup Cape gooseberries (also known as Physalis)
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary leaves
– 1 cup granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. Rinse the Cape gooseberries with water, then pat dry with paper towels.
2. Combine the vodka and Cape gooseberries in a large glass jar or container.
3. Add the rosemary sprigs to the jar.
4. Seal the jar and let it infuse for 4-6 weeks, shaking occasionally, until the flavors have melded together.
5. Strain the infusion through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean container. Discard the solids.
6. Add the sugar to the liquid and stir until dissolved.
Cooking Time: 4-6 weeks
Cape Gooseberry and Apple Crumble
This recipe combines the sweetness of apples with the tanginess of Cape gooseberries, topped with a crunchy oat crumble. It’s perfect for a cozy evening dessert or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 Cape gooseberries, sliced
– 1 large apple, peeled and diced
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together sliced Cape gooseberries and diced apple.
3. Add granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Toss until fruit is evenly coated.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×9-inch baking dish.
5. In a separate bowl, combine rolled oats, brown sugar, and chopped walnuts (if using). Mix in melted butter until crumbly.
6. Top the fruit mixture with the oat mixture, spreading evenly.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the topping is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Discover the sweet and tangy flavors of Cape Gooseberries with these 20 delicious recipes for every occasion. From sweet treats like jam, tart, and sorbet to savory dishes like chutney, BBQ sauce, and roasted chicken, this collection has something for everyone. Try making a Cape Gooseberry and Vanilla Jam for breakfast or a Cape Gooseberry Upside-Down Cake for dessert. For a quick snack, whip up a Cape Gooseberry and Coconut Smoothie or enjoy the tangy flavor of Cape Gooseberry Salad with Feta and Arugula. These recipes showcase the versatility and deliciousness of Cape Gooseberries in a variety of sweet and savory dishes.
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