Strawberry Sourdough Shortcake

On the Menu Today~
Strawberry Sourdough Shortcakes

Driscoll's Berries~ Only The Finest Berries~
Driscoll's takes pride in offering only the finest strawberries, blueberries,
blackberries and raspberries.
Driscoll's has been growing strawberries for over 100 years.
Each berry is hand picked and
must meet quality standards for sweetness, size and color.

                                         June 14th is National Strawberry Shortcake Day!!!

Strawberry Sourdough Shortcake

Ingredients

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 2 tablespoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
• 3/4 cup shortening
• 1 1/2 cups sourdough starter
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 6 cups fresh strawberries, rinsed and hulled
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped crystallized ginger
• 2 cups heavy whipping cream
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract, optional
• sifted powdered sugar
• sprigs of fresh mint

Cooking Directions

1. Shortcake Directions:
2. Grease baking sheets; set aside
3. In a large bowl combine flour, sugar, baking powder, salt and lemon zest. Cut in shortening using a pastry blender until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Make a well in the center of the flour mixture. Stir together the sourdough starter, milk and vanilla. Add to flour mixture. Using a fork, stir just until moistened. Drop dough onto prepared baking sheets with an ice cream scoop or large spoon. Bake at 375º for 15 to 18 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from oven, transfer to a wire rack to cool
4. Note: sourdough shortcakes aren't as "puffy" as regular shortcakes.
5. Prepare strawberries:
6. Place strawberries in a medium bowl. Mash lightly with a potato masher, about 6 times. Mix strawberries with 1/4 cup sugar and crystallized ginger. Allow to stand at room temperature to macerate for one hour. 
7. Prepare whipped topping:
8. In large, chilled bowl combine the heavy cream, 1/4 cup sugar and vanilla. With chilled beaters and an electric mixer on medium, beat until soft peaks form. Chill.
9. To assemble:
10. Cut shortcakes in half or thirds. Place bottom half on a serving plate, top with strawberries, repeat layers, ending with strawberries and whipped cream.
11. Garnish with sifted powdered sugar and a sprig of fresh mint.

Sourdough, Strawberry,
Dessert