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Blueberry Sorbet Macarons

Blueberry Sorbet Macarons


I really did not mean for it to be this long in between posts but this week really got the best of my time. Deadlines and meetings crept up all of a sudden when clients realized I may not be online as much in the next couple of weeks. But work is good. Vacation? Finally! Yes. I am taking a vacation. The first in 4 years! I am going home to France tomorrow and as much as I hate that B. can’t join me, I just can’t wait to put my bags down in my old room and chill on the patio with my family.

Hugs from my nieces. Chats with my mom. Mapping outings with my dad. Listening, in awe – always – to my grandfather’s stories. Planning his 100th birthday party. Taking pictures. Aperitifs on the back porch. My brother’s never ending supply of energy being wasted on my vacation brain. I intend to soak it all in. Smile, cry, get riled up (because that’s what we do in our larger than life family). All of it.

Blueberry Sorbet


My parents now reside outside of Paris and we will be spending some time there before heading out on a mini road trip, heading down South. Toulouse first where my brother can’t wait to show me the house he built. Then it’s a trip down memory lane stomping my old grounds in Provence and the Alps where I grew up. That’s the beauty of France being on the small size, one can cover a lot of territory in a relatively short period of time. And it helps that someone else is driving, ahah!

Blueberries


Of course, I have already been volunteered to be the photographer at my grandpa’s birthday party/family reunion but I am really looking into capturing the places of my childhood. Unlike Beatrice from La Tartine Gourmande who grew up in Lorraine, I can’t promise you pictures of cows, apple trees or fields and crops. Nope. I grew up among endless seas of lavender fields, olive tree groves and red clay canyons. Valleys, mountains, rocks and wildflowers. That’s my France. Just thinking about it makes my soul and heart at peace. But that’s what I love about France. The diversity of people and places within human (driving) reach.

Blueberry Sorbet & Macarons


As I was jotting down places and things I wanted to see and visits, foods and desserts and I wanted to eat again, I was also working on leaving a "happy fridge" for Bill while I’d be gone. The phrase is pretty self explanatory: the man does not cook or bake so I tend to leave homemade meals for him to reheat after work. I also know he’ll be invited at the neighbors and his parents so I am not worried. And he can boil water!

One thing that is really easy to leave also is a bunch of frozen treats so I did make lots of ice creams and sorbets this week as well as his favorite cookies, macarons. He like to eat them like Oreos. Separate the layers, eat the filling. Or dunked in his coffee. I don’t question. I am just happy he is willing to try my ideas.

Blueberry Sorbet & Macarons


One thing we’ve been eating just about everyday is the blueberry sorbet I last made with the loads of blueberries we keep getting at the farmers' market. I pretty much made 3 batches in a row we could not get enough! One night, instead of giving him a bowl of sorbet and a couple of macarons shells, I just filled said shell with said sorbet and that’s how these came about. There are a dozen at the ready in the freezer. And I know I am a tad envious because dang! that sorbet was awesome.

Oh wait… what am I talking about? I am going home to my mom’s cooking. Forget what I have said in the previous paragraph. Well, no. Make that sorbet first. Then some macarons and eat them together. You won’t be disappointed. I promise!

One more thing: Caitlin and J’s engagement set is finally up for your viewing pleasure, here. I had such a great time, I can’t wait to photograph their wedding!

Blueberry Sorbet Macarons



Blueberry Sorbet Macarons:

Makes about 30-35 filled macarons and about 4 cups sorbet

Blueberry Sorbet, adapted from Richard Leach in Sweet Seasons:
3 cups fresh or frozen blueberries
1 cup sugar
2 cups water
zest and juice of one lemon

In a medium saucepan set over medium high heat, place the blueberries and the rest of the ingredients and bring to a quick boil. Reduce the heat to low and simmer 10 minutes. Remove from the heat and let cool completely. Puree until smooth in a blender or food processor and then strain through a fine mesh chinois (strainer). Process in your ice cream machine according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Macarons:

For the shells:
90 gr egg whites (use egg whites that have been preferably left 3-4 days in the fridge)
25 gr granulated sugar
200 gr powdered sugar
110 gr almonds (slivered, blanched, sliced, whatever you like)
1 tablespoon cherry pink powdered food coloring

Prepare the macarons:
In a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment, whip the egg whites to a foam, (think bubble bath foam) gradually add the sugar until you obtain a glossy meringue (think shaving cream). Do not overbeat your meringue or it will be too dry. Place the powdered sugar and almonds and powdered color in a food processor and give them a good pulse until the nuts are finely ground. Add them to the meringue, give it a quick fold to break some of the air and then fold the mass carefully until you obtain a batter that falls back on itself after counting to 10. Give quick strokes at first to break the mass and slow down. The whole process should not take more than 50 strokes. Test a small amount on a plate: if the tops flattens on its own you are good to go. If there is a small beak, give the batter a couple of turns.
Fill a pastry bag fitted with a plain tip (Ateco #807 or #809) with the batter and pipe small rounds (1.5 inches in diameter) onto parchment paper or silicone mats lined baking sheets. Let the macarons sit out for 30 minutes to an hour to harden their shells a bit. In the meantime, preheat the oven to 280F. When ready, bake for 15 to 20 minutes, depending on their size. Let cool. Once baked and if you are not using them right away, store the shells in an airtight container out of the fridge for a couple of days or in the freezer for up to 2 weeks (longer and the sugar starts to seep out which makes them sticky).
Fill the macarons with the sorbet and store in the freezer in an airtight container. Eat them within the week if you can.

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Comments


Jessica @ How Sweet August 22, 2010 um 3:36 pm

They are stunning!


Nic August 22, 2010 um 3:47 pm

Hope you have a wonderful time in France, shame that Bill isn't going with you. These little treats will make life a bit bearable while you are away!


Debbie August 22, 2010 um 3:47 pm

These are so cute and I love those spoons!!


Xiaolu @ 6 Bittersweets August 22, 2010 um 3:53 pm

Breathtaking creations, Helene! Bill is very lucky indeed to have you. I don't even feel like cooking for my boyfriend half the time when I'm here hehe. Have a wonderful trip. Your vacation is certainly well-deserved!


[email protected] August 22, 2010 um 3:53 pm

Helen, this is such a lovely, uplifting, happy-joyous post! I hope you have an amazing time with your family. Take it all in, savor each moment…..we know you will. Best to your grand-pére as he celebrates his 100th birthday.
Sounds like B is well taken care of, so sweet of you to leave him a kitchen full of goodies.
xxoo
safe travels 🙂


Deliciously Organic August 22, 2010 um 3:58 pm

I hope you have a wonderful time and can take a breath and truly relax. How wonderuful you can be there to celebrate your grandfather's 100th birthday. From the stories you told, he seems like a truly remarkable man who has served his country well.


Julie @ Willow Bird Baking August 22, 2010 um 5:11 pm

Gorgeous!! And I totally believe you about not being disappointed — I can't imagine being disappointed with blueberry sorbet!

Here's hoping you have some time to breathe 🙂


Saffron Paisley August 22, 2010 um 5:21 pm

What a beautiful, and delicious, take on the ice cream sandwich. Love it!


Stephanie August 22, 2010 um 6:05 pm

your photographs are absolutely gorgeous- i'm so glad i found your blog! definitely inspiring. also, can't wait to try making some blueberry goodness. we have been having tremendous luck at our farmers' market with blueberries lately.


Amber August 22, 2010 um 6:35 pm

Delicious!
Photographs very good.


Ken August 22, 2010 um 7:06 pm

A refreshing summer treat. Most delightful.


KJ August 22, 2010 um 8:39 pm

Have a safe trip and enjoy yourself.


Where My Heart Is August 22, 2010 um 9:01 pm

Have a wonderful trip – it sounds just glorious! Hopefully you will share some photos?


Daniela Dineva August 22, 2010 um 9:41 pm

Lovely, lovely, lovely. Have a nice trip to Paris and to your parents 🙂


Helene August 22, 2010 um 10:31 pm

Where My Heart Is: see 4th paragraph.


K and S August 22, 2010 um 11:24 pm

bon voyage!!


♥peachkins♥ August 23, 2010 um 12:28 am

amazing macarons..wish I could get my hands on them..


Susan August 23, 2010 um 12:53 am

I'm jealous–French countryside–spectacular. How nice to be able to have that fairy tale vacation. You've earned it!! Can't wait to see pictures.


Anonymous August 23, 2010 um 1:04 am

Your dessert creations are absolutely adorable and mouthwatering! i just found yoru blog and will be sure to visit it regular!

Please enjoy the birthday party!

-Mami


poppyseed August 23, 2010 um 2:27 am

Your visit and home sound so wonderful!!! Like a dream, really!! I want your blueberry sorbet right now! Beautiful pictures.


Sara Tea August 23, 2010 um 4:26 am

you out do yourself, every day. so fabulous!! I must try these out, even though macarons are terrifying! lol


Jen August 23, 2010 um 6:21 am

is it wrong of me to be jealous of bill when I haven't even met him? lucky guy to have so many goodies in the fridge!! 🙂

this looks amazing [as always] and perfect for the [finally]warm summer!


Unknown August 23, 2010 um 7:17 am

Really love your photography! It makes me happy (and hungry) to see your pictures! Also, love the pictures you took for the couple. Have a sweet and wonferful time back home. Bon Voyage! 🙂


dumplingdesignz August 23, 2010 um 7:27 am

What a lovely combination, as always your macaron look absolutely gorgeous. Hope you have a great time in France.


Vanille August 23, 2010 um 8:00 am

Bon retour aux sources Hélène !


Jenn August 23, 2010 um 8:02 am

Blueberry sorbet sounds so refreshing right now, just beautiful! Love the idea of a sorbet filling for macarons. Enjoy your vacation en France!


WendyinKK August 23, 2010 um 8:14 am

Have a great vacation and a Happy 100th Birthday to your grandpa in advance.


fragolina August 23, 2010 um 11:11 am

Charming pictures!! Bonnes vacances!!


my little expat kitchen August 23, 2010 um 11:57 am

They looks so pretty. I have never made macarons… shame on me! The sorbet has such a beautiful color.
Magda


linda August 23, 2010 um 12:47 pm

glorious…your macarons!

we celebrated a friend's mom yesterday @ her 100th! it is truly amazing!

have the best time & please share all your photos with us…travel safe! all the best.


Anonymous August 23, 2010 um 1:03 pm

You are so busy getting ready for your trip,,,and yet you took the time to post this beautiful message. I loved it,,,and the pictures,,,,and the memories. Have fun,,enjoy.
Hope you will share your time with family,,celebrations,,,love and FOOD!


shaz August 23, 2010 um 1:06 pm

Have a wonderful holiday Helen! It sounds fabuloous, cannot wait to see the photos from it.

Lucky Bill though, with a freezer full of these treats.


Salsa Verde August 23, 2010 um 1:08 pm

They look so decadent and delicious!!
Cheers,
Lia.


Your Lifestyle Guide August 23, 2010 um 2:48 pm

Wow, I'm totally in love with your blog. The beautiful recipies, the even more beautiful pictures..

Love it all!

Good luck!

A lifestyle blogger from Holland


Barbara | VinoLuciStyle August 23, 2010 um 3:10 pm

I want to go where you're going…I dream of the day when I actually am immersed in lavender fields. My crop is growing more and more every year but will never be fields of them!

Of course, lovely macarons, but we have come to expect no less from you. Do you even worry about that moment of feet or no feet anymore?


ChichaJo August 23, 2010 um 3:23 pm

Have a wonderful time on your vacation!


martina August 23, 2010 um 3:28 pm

Enjoy your family and "your" France. It will be fantastic. Cheers
Martina


sparklingcosmic August 23, 2010 um 4:03 pm

dear Helène,
I found that 200 gr of sugar powder for the macaron shell is too sweet, is there something that i can do to make it less sweet?


Marie August 23, 2010 um 5:27 pm

This looks truly delicious! It's blueberry season in Norway, and I think I must pick some and make this wondeful sorbet! Bon voyage,I hope you'll have a great holiday.


Patricia Scarpin August 23, 2010 um 6:00 pm

I hope you have a wonderful time, sweetie! Have lots of fun and tell us all about it later! 🙂

Oh, the recipe looks amazing – fresh blueberries are hard to find here (and they cost an arm and a leg), so I'm glad I can use frozen ones!

xoxo


Maria August 23, 2010 um 6:19 pm

Have a fabulous time with your family! Gorgeous summer dessert!


Gen August 23, 2010 um 6:57 pm

Quelles photos magnifiques! Elles donnent du rêve et me laissent béate! Fresh, fuity and comforting!
Bon voyage en France et retour aux sources! Looking forward to your future recipes!


Debugcooking August 23, 2010 um 7:30 pm

Damn…how do ya manage to get such perfect feet and how do they manage to balance so well sideways…how no drops of sorbet…gawd so many questions running in my head as I read yr post…and these blueberry trays…where do ya find such gorgeous props..Helen you are a genius..


Anonymous August 23, 2010 um 9:06 pm

my my, these are beautiful! Lovely photos, and I would probably eat 20 of these in s span of ten seconds if given the chance. I can't wait to try these out 😉


Georgia | The Comfort of Cooking August 23, 2010 um 10:18 pm

I have never seen a macaroon piled high with sorbet, but I love the idea! Also, you have the prettiest straws I have ever seen – got to get my hands on some of those for my next fruity summer drink concoctions! Thanks for sharing these breathtaking photos and recipes, as usual.


Lexi August 23, 2010 um 10:34 pm

I love macarons and I love blueberry sorbet. What a perfect mixture for a hot day!


Dee D. August 23, 2010 um 11:08 pm

Mmmm, looks amazing, and gorgeous pictures as usual!
Out of curiosity, did you take those pictures on the side walk??
~Dee D.


Abby August 24, 2010 um 12:56 am

Have a safe, wonderful vacation. (Can I come, too?)


maybelle's mom August 24, 2010 um 1:00 am

i love it when people admit to crying. it sounds silly, but i think so many of us pretend not to. thanks.


Marina August 24, 2010 um 7:41 am

Mmhhh..this blueberry sorbet looks really delicious!

Love your blog – good pictures.


Juls @Juls' Kitchen August 24, 2010 um 9:20 am

It's incredible! I've just visited those beautiful places and my heart is still full of love and passion and wonderful sceneries! Olive trees and vineyards… breathtaking!
I wish you an incredible time with your family!


Helene August 24, 2010 um 10:26 am

sparklingcosmic: macarons are coyingly sweet, it's their nature, which explains also that we only eat one or two at a time. The recipe has given has taken a long time to develop so that it works in pretty much all environments and I have not tried it with less sugar. If you do, let me know what your results are!

DebugCooking: re:feet: practice, practice, practice.
Re: berries baskets: www.etsy.com
Re:balance: luck
re:sorbet: the macarons are forzen again for 30 minutes after being filled and the set up is ready to go (light/aperture/exposure) before i shoot so i don't hqve to see it melt before i get the shot.

Dee.D: nope on my patio.

Thanks everyone!


Kelly-Jane August 24, 2010 um 10:59 am

Sounds absolutley divine!


Honey @ honeyandsoy August 24, 2010 um 12:20 pm

I looove how the macarons look with the sorbet! Did the shells get soggy at all? I suppose not since you said that you froze them straightaway after filling them. Have a lovely road trip and tell us all about it! 🙂


JillS. August 24, 2010 um 1:23 pm

What lovely macrons…have never tried together with sorbet – but will now. Your trip sounds absolutely amazing – is there room for all of us? I hope we will get lots of your beautiful photos to look at.


Vicki B August 24, 2010 um 1:32 pm

Looking forward to your vacation pictures. The sorbet macarons look delicious. I had my first macaron ice cream sandwich Saturday and it was spectacular.


Anonymous August 25, 2010 um 2:41 am

Tartelette!

J'adore beaucoup ton desserts!

Tu me rends heureux avec chaqueune de tes photos!

Muchas gracias! 🙂

Saludos desde Chile,
Tamara. 🙂


Alyssa has Pink Antlers August 25, 2010 um 1:36 pm

mmmm… that sorbet looks amazing – and so refreshing!


Lucy August 25, 2010 um 2:42 pm

These macarons are simply beautiful, as are your French memories and descriptions. Enjoy your well earned break!


Nicolette August 25, 2010 um 3:54 pm

I hope you have a rejuvenating and relaxing trip. And as always, the blueberries and sorbet look awesome!


Kari August 25, 2010 um 4:37 pm

Bon voyage et bonnes vacances!


Delishhh August 25, 2010 um 8:53 pm

Hope your summer is going well. As usual i just wanted to say that your photo's are amazing!! I can drool over them.


pigpigscorner August 25, 2010 um 9:11 pm

Beautiful!


ALIMENTA August 25, 2010 um 9:54 pm

MMMmmm beautiful and delicious!!!!


Pretty. Good. Food. August 27, 2010 um 1:54 pm

These look so delicious, I will definitely try these!

Please check out my new blog and tell me what you think!

www.prettygoodfood.com


Shaheen {The Purple Foodie} August 28, 2010 um 5:35 pm

This looks so lovely! ave fun in France, Helene.

Oh, you know I met up with a wannabe food blogger this past week and just as one foodie conversation lead to another we both agreed on how stunning your photography is and she gushed about how she was so excited when you replied to her email and everything. You are everyone's hero. 🙂


BriBriMX August 29, 2010 um 7:12 pm

ça doit être délicieux…

loin de ma famille aussi, sur ton continent, au mexique, je sais ce que sont ses moments que tu peux passer avec eux qd tu dois rentrer en france…
dans les Alpes, pas loin, de grenoble…
de retour de vacances, et hop, je viens vite voir ce qu'il y a de nouveau chez toi….


Gloria Baker August 30, 2010 um 5:13 pm

What lovely pictures! and yummy! gloria


Yue Jiang September 6, 2010 um 1:42 am

Beautiful as usual!!


Anis October 3, 2010 um 10:49 am

Hi Helene, I would like to ask a question please, I am about to buy new tips to make macaron according to your recipe you recommend using #807 #809 tips , in the country where i live I can only find tips in mm not in inches so I googled it and found out that the first one is 9/16" roughly 14.28mm and the second one 11/16" roughly 17.46 mm but in pierre herme macaron book they call for a tip number 11 ie 11mm and yours seem much bigger as I am not familiar with inches at all I got confused and don't want to make any mistake can you please let me know if this conversions sounds correct to you thank you very much for your help
have a nice day


Helene October 3, 2010 um 1:37 pm

Anis: the opening of the #807 is 1.3cm if that helps.


Marie October 8, 2010 um 8:23 pm

i have had some blueberries in the freezer since august which i never got around to use, and this sorbet made perfect sense – and it really was: perfect. thank you for sharing!


nstar612 January 31, 2011 um 12:42 am

Hi Helen,

love your macaron 🙂 i have a question if you don't mind, my macaron's top is not smooth…. i did shift the almond and powder sugar, but the top still cannot smooth. thanks


Helene January 31, 2011 um 3:12 am

nstar612: sounds like you may need to sift a few more times.


Lea March 31, 2011 um 9:07 am

The sorbet looks delicious! Love the color.


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