Apricot Pearls

Soft and subtly tangy, apricot pearls bring golden sweetness to yogurt bowls, baked goods, and sparkling beverages.

Ingredients

  • ¾ cup (180mL) apricot purée (from ripe, peeled apricots)
  • ¼ cup (60mL) cold water
  • 1 tbsp (15mL) lemon juice
  • 1 tsp (4g) sugar (optional for extra sweetness)
  • ½ tsp (2g) sodium alginate
  • 1 tsp (4.5g) calcium chloride
  • 2 cups (500mL) ice-cold water (for bath)

Instructions

  1. Make Purée
    • Peel and pit ripe apricots. Blend until smooth and strain to remove fibers.
  2. Mix Base
    • In blender, combine 180mL purée with 60mL water, lemon juice, and sugar (if using).
  3. Add Alginate
    • While blending on low speed, sprinkle in sodium alginate. Blend until fully dissolved.
  4. Rest
    • Let mixture rest for 30–45 minutes to eliminate air bubbles.
  5. Strain
    • Pass through a fine mesh sieve into The Spherificator®.
  6. Prepare Bath
    • Dissolve calcium chloride in 500mL ice-cold water.
  7. Form Pearls
    • Using The Spherificator®, drip mixture into bath from 5–6 inches. Cure for 1 minute.
  8. Finish
    • Rinse pearls in cold water and serve chilled.

Expert Tips

Flavor Enhancements
  • Stone fruit blend: Mix with peach or mango purée.
  • Floral touch: Add 1 drop orange blossom or rose water.
Color Control
  • Brighter color: Use very ripe apricots and add a pinch of turmeric.
  • Translucent pearls: Strain purée through cheesecloth.
Troubleshooting
  • If pearls collapse: Increase cure time by 15 seconds.
  • If too thick: Add 1 tbsp water before resting.
Serving Ideas
  • Desserts: Top panna cotta, ice cream, or crepes.
  • Brunch: Add to mimosas, yogurt, or granola parfaits.
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