What does it mean to macerate raspberries?

Answer

The word macerate is very similar to the word marinate. However, there is a distinction. Both words involve the soaking of an item in some sort of liquid, but marinate always involves a marinade and a marinade is some sort of liquid, usually oil and vinegar season with herbs, spices, and salt. On the other hand, macerate implies making something lean, less firm, or separated. Therefore, "macerate strawberries" refers to the soaking of strawberries in a liquid that will flavor and soften them. An example would be strawberries placed in a mixture mainly consisting of sugar and red wine, with a little black pepper and salt for seasoning.

When I macerate berries, I give them a bit of a mash (macerate means to smash up) and add a touch of sugar. This will result in a flavor source that will soak well into sponge cakes and shortbreads.

First answer by anonymous. Last edit by Aggie80. Contributor trust: 1858 [recommend contributor]. Question popularity: 129 [recommend question]