Blackberry Sage Sauce

FOR GRILLED DISHES 

Use blackberries, loganberries, or marionberries for this sauce, scrumptious with rabbit or venison in particular. We like the robust flavor from the larger amount of sage suggested, but feel free to use the smaller quantity for a gentler herbal note.

Delight in the harmonious union of rich blackberries and earthy sage with our “Blackberry Sage Sauce.” This sauce is a testament to the enchanting marriage of sweet and savory flavors, elevating your dishes to new heights of sophistication. Whether drizzled over rabbit or venison, this sauce promises an unforgettable culinary experience.

MAKES: ABOUT 1½ CUPS

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 large shallot, minced
• 2 cups chicken stock
• 2 cups fresh or frozen blackberries, loganberries, or marionberries
• 1 to 2 teaspoons crumbled dried sage
• Kosher salt or coarse sea salt
• Blackberry jelly or jam, or brown sugar (optional)

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Melt Butter and Sauté Shallot: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced shallot and sauté until it turns soft and translucent, approximately 3 minutes.
2. Add Stock, Berries, and Sage: Pour in the chicken stock, followed by the blackberries and crumbled dried sage. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle boil. Then, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 20 more minutes, allowing the blackberries to break down and release their vibrant flavor.
3. Strain and Season: Strain the sauce into a separate bowl, pressing the solids to extract every drop of the luscious liquid. Return the strained sauce to the saucepan and season it with a sprinkle of kosher salt or coarse sea salt. To balance any excess tartness, you can opt to stir in a touch of blackberry jelly, jam, or brown sugar.
4. Thicken and Reduce: Continue cooking the sauce over low heat until it achieves a desirable thickness and reduces to approximately 1½ cups. The sauce’s flavors will intensify and develop during this process.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS:

• Embrace the elegance of the Blackberry Sage Sauce by drizzling it generously over dishes like rabbit or venison. The sauce’s harmonious blend of sweet and savory notes will add depth and complexity to the rich flavors of these meats. Pair your prepared dish with complementary sides such as roasted vegetables or a simple grain pilaf to create a well-rounded meal that’s as visually appealing as it is delicious.

STORAGE:

• Should you have any leftover sauce, you can refrigerate it in a covered container for up to a day. When ready to serve again, simply reheat the sauce, and its delightful flavors will come back to life.

VARIATIONS:

• Herb Infusion: While sage is the star of this sauce, you can explore other herbs for a unique twist. Try infusing the sauce with thyme, rosemary, or even a touch of mint. The herbal infusion will add layers of aroma and complexity to the sauce.
• Citrus Zest: Enhance the sauce’s vibrancy by incorporating citrus zest. Add grated orange or lemon zest to brighten up the flavors and provide a hint of citrusy freshness.
• Wine Reduction: Elevate the sauce’s richness by substituting part of the chicken stock with red wine. The wine’s depth and tannins will harmonize with the berries, creating a more intricate flavor profile.
• Spice Kick: For those who appreciate a touch of heat, consider adding a dash of crushed red pepper flakes or a minced chili pepper. The subtle heat will complement the sweetness of the blackberries and the earthiness of the sage.
• Nutty Undertones: Introduce a layer of nuttiness by stirring in chopped toasted nuts, such as walnuts or almonds. The nuts will not only provide texture but also deepen the sauce’s complexity.
• A Touch of Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter sauce, experiment with different sweeteners. Swap out brown sugar for honey, maple syrup, or even a fruit-based sweetener like agave nectar.
• Balsamic Elegance: Replace a portion of the vinegar with balsamic vinegar for a more complex acidity. The balsamic’s deep, tangy notes will harmonize beautifully with the berries.
• Berries Galore: While blackberries are the classic choice, you can diversify the berry selection. Try a blend of blackberries, raspberries, and blueberries for a medley of colors and flavors.