Shortcake And More

Directions

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.