Belgium strawberries and whipped cream is a beloved dessert that harmonizes the sweetness of ripe strawberries with the luxurious texture of whipped cream. Originating from Belgium, where strawberries thrive in the summer, this dessert embodies simplicity and elegance. Fresh strawberries, carefully washed and sliced, are delicately folded into whipped cream sweetened with powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Chilled to perfection, it offers a light yet indulgent treat ideal for warm days or any occasion. Versatile and easy to prepare, this dessert promises to delight with its refreshing flavors and visual appeal, making it a timeless choice for both casual gatherings and formal settings alike.

Ingredients:

- Fresh strawberries

- Heavy cream

- Powdered sugar

- Vanilla extract

Method:

1. Prepare the Strawberries:

  - Wash the strawberries thoroughly under running water.

  - Hull them (remove the green leafy top) and slice them into bite-sized pieces.

2. Whip the Cream:

  - In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream until it forms stiff peaks. You can use an electric mixer or a whisk for this step.

  - Be careful not to overwhip the cream, as it can turn into butter if whipped too much.

3. Sweeten the Cream:

  - Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract to the whipped cream.

  - Continue mixing until the sugar is fully incorporated and the cream is smooth and sweetened to your taste.

4. Combine with Strawberries:

  - Gently fold the sliced strawberries into the sweetened whipped cream.

  - Ensure that the strawberries are fully coated with the cream.

5. Chill and Serve:

  - Spoon the mixture into individual serving dishes or a larger bowl.

  - Chill the dessert in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. Chilling helps the flavors meld together and enhances the texture.

6. Garnish and Enjoy:

  - Serve the Belgium strawberries and whipped cream cold.

  - Optionally, garnish with additional sliced strawberries on top for a decorative touch.

Tips:

- Use ripe strawberries for the best flavor and texture.

- Adjust the sweetness of the whipped cream by adding more or less powdered sugar according to your preference.

- For a lighter version, consider using whipped cream made with low-fat milk or substitute with whipped coconut cream.

- This dessert can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for several hours before serving.

Enjoy your refreshing Belgium strawberries and whipped cream dessert!

Nutrition Value:

This dessert is relatively low in calories and fat, making it a healthier option for those watching their diet. One serving (1/2 cup) contains approximately

1. Strawberries (1 cup, approx. 150g):

• Calories: 49 kcal
• Protein: 1g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Sugar: 7g
• Fiber: 3g
• Fat: 0.5g
• Vitamin C: 89mg (99% DV)
• Folate: 36mcg (9% DV)
• Potassium: 233mg (5% DV)

benefits:

• Rich in Vitamin C: Boosts immune system function and promotes skin health.
• High in Antioxidants: Contains anthocyanins and ellagic acid, which help reduce inflammation and protect against cancer.
• Low in Calories: A healthy, low-calorie snack that helps with weight management.
• Good Source of Fiber: Aids in digestion and helps maintain a healthy gut.
• Heart Health: May reduce the risk of heart disease by improving cholesterol levels and blood pressure.

2. Heavy Cream (1 cup, approx. 240g):

• Calories: 821 kcal
• Protein: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 7g
• Sugar: 6g
• Fat: 88g
• Saturated Fat: 55g
• Cholesterol: 331mg
• Vitamin A: 415 IU (83% DV)
• Calcium: 80mg (8% DV)

benefits:

• High in Healthy Fats: Provides essential fatty acids that are important for brain function and hormone production.
• Calcium-Rich: Supports bone health and helps prevent osteoporosis.
• Vitamin A: Essential for vision, immune function, and skin health.
• Energy Dense: Provides a high-calorie content which can be beneficial for individuals needing to gain weight or for high-energy expenditure activities.

3. Powdered Sugar (1 cup, approx. 120g):

• Calories: 468 kcal
• Protein: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 120g
• Sugar: 120g
• Fat: 0g

benefits:

• Quick Energy: Provides a fast source of energy due to its high sugar content, useful for athletes or those needing a quick energy boost.
• Enhances Flavor: Adds sweetness to dishes, making them more palatable and enjoyable.

4. Vanilla Extract (1 tsp, approx. 4.2g):

• Calories: 12 kcal
• Protein: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 0.5g
• Sugar: 0.1g
• Fat: 0g

benefits:

• Antioxidant Properties: Contains vanillin, which has antioxidant properties that help reduce oxidative stress.
• Anti-Inflammatory: May help reduce inflammation and has been used traditionally for its potential healing properties.
• Enhances Mood: The aroma of vanilla has been shown to have calming and mood-enhancing effects.

Total Nutritional Values (per serving):

• Calories: 337.5 kcal
• Protein: 1.5g
• Carbohydrates: 34.4g
• Sugar: 33.1g
• Fiber: 0.75g
• Fat: 22.6g
• Saturated Fat: 13.75g
• Cholesterol: 82.75mg
• Vitamin C: 22.25mg (25% DV)
• Vitamin A: 103.75 IU (21% DV)
• Folate: 9mcg (2% DV)
• Potassium: 58.25mg (1% DV)
• Calcium: 20mg (2% DV)

These values are estimates and can vary based on the exact quantities and brands of ingredients used.