Zabaglione With Fresh Berries

Some say it was during the 16th century that the famous Medici family invented zabaglione. Others credit Giovan Paolo Baglioni, a fierce Italian nobleman turned warlord who, during the late 15th century, fed his troops a "soup" made of eggs, wild honey and wine. Still others credit the pastry cooks of Turin for creating this delicious mixture of creamed egg yolks, sugar and Marsala. Here the word zabaglione is believed to have been named after a local parish priest, San Pasquale Bayon, who was renowned for his culinary abilities. Regardless of its exact origin, zabaglione's roots are planted in Italian food history. Zabaglione evolved as a delicacy that eventually became popular in France, where it is known as sabayon. Zabaglione or sabayon is a delicate sauce of foamed egg yolks, sugar, and wine. (Marsala is traditional in the Italian version, and Champagne or dry white wine is preferred in the French version.) The yolks are whipped vigorously as they cook over simmering water until a dense, thick foam develops. Whipping allows the incorporation of air, which creates a foam. The following recipe for Zabaglione with Fresh Berries has been adapted from The Culinary Institute of America's Baking and Pastry, Mastering the Art and Craft.Note: If desired, whip 6 fl oz of heavy cream to medium peaks and fold into cooled zabaglione.

• Ready In: 20 mins
• Serves: 4

Ingredients

• 5  large  egg yolks
• 1⁄3 cup sugar
• 1⁄3 cup dry marsala or 1⁄3 cup sweet marsala wine
• 5 1⁄4 cups blackberries (berries can be mixed if desired) or 5 1⁄4 cups blueberries (berries can be mixed if desired) or 5 1⁄4 cups  quartered strawberries (berries can be mixed if desired)

Directions

1. Combine the egg yolks, sugar, and Marsala in a bowl. Whip together, using a hand-held balloon whisk, until thoroughly blended. Place the bowl over a pot of simmering water and heat, whisking constantly, until the mixture is thick, foamy and has reached 165 degrees F.
2. Cool slightly and serve immediately or transfer the zabaglione to a container. Cover with plastic wrap placed directly on the surface to prevent a skin from forming. Zabaglione may be served warm or at room temperature.
3. Serving Size: 1/2 cup zabaglione with 2/3 cup berries.