Gooseberry Fool

Garnish this gorgeous dessert with a few whole gooseberries, a sprig of mint, or a sprinkle of crushed vanilla wafer cookies for added texture and presentation.

Ingredients:
1 pound gooseberries, topped and tailed
½ cup granulated sugar
2 tablespoons water
1¼ cups heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Method:
1. Place the gooseberries, sugar, and water in a saucepan over medium heat. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the gooseberries break down and the mixture becomes thick and jam-like. This should take about 10-15 minutes. Taste and adjust the sweetness if necessary. Allow the gooseberry mixture to cool completely.

2. In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream with the vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Be careful not to over-whip, as you want the cream to be smooth and fluffy.

3. Gently fold the cooled gooseberry mixture into the whipped cream. You can fully incorporate it for a uniform color and flavor or swirl it in for a marbled effect.

4. Spoon the Gooseberry Fool into serving glasses or bowls. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the fool to set slightly.