Citrus Terrine with Dried Fruits

Ingredients:

• 4 oranges
• 2 grapefruits
• 1 lemon
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 cup water
• 1 cup mixed dried fruits (such as apricots, figs, cranberries, raisins)
• 1 envelope unflavored gelatin

Instructions:

1. Use a sharp knife to remove the peels from the oranges, grapefruits and lemon, being careful to remove as much of the white pith as possible. Cut the fruit into thin slices and arrange them in overlapping layers in a 9×5 inch loaf pan. Set aside.
2. In a saucepan, combine the sugar and water and bring to a boil, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Reduce the heat and let simmer for 5 minutes. Remove from heat.
3. In a separate bowl, soak the dried fruit in enough hot water to cover for 5 minutes. Then drain the water and chop the fruit into small pieces.
4. In another small saucepan, sprinkle the gelatin over 1/2 cup of cold water. Let soften for 1 minute. Then place the pan over low heat and stir until the gelatin dissolves. Remove from heat.
5. Add the sugar syrup and the dissolved gelatin to the bowl with the chopped dried fruit. Stir to combine well.
6. Pour the fruit and gelatin mixture over the fruit slices in the loaf pan. Use a fork to gently push the fruit slices down into the gelatin mixture so that none are sticking out above the surface. Chill the pan for at least 6 hours, or up to overnight, until set.
7. To serve, run a knife along the edges of the pan to loosen the terrine. Place a plate on top of the pan and invert the pan to release the terrine onto the plate. Slice and serve cold.

Verdict: This refreshing and fruity dessert is perfect for the warmer months. The citrus slices give it a tangy flavor while the mixed dried fruits add a sweet and chewy texture. It’s also a visually stunning treat to impress guests with minimal effort. Serve with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream, if desired.