MIXED BERRIES BATHED IN BAY LEAF CUSTARD
 
Prep Time: 1 ½ Hours
Yields: 6

Comment: 
From April throughout the summer months, it is very easy to find fresh berries from strawberries to wild mulberries.  We have enrobed these sweet, bountiful berries in a luxurious custard flavored with the delicate essence of bay leaves.

Ingredients:
5 large egg yolks
¼ cup granulated sugar
2 cups heavy cream
2-3 fresh bay leaves, not dried
6 cups mixed fresh berries such as strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, blackberries, or wild mulberries

Method:
Beat together yolks and sugar in a bowl with an electric mixer until thick and pale, about 3 minutes.  Transfer yolk mixture to a 2-3 quart heavy saucepan and stir in milk, cream, and bay leaves.  Cook over moderately low heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon, until thick enough to coat back of spoon and registers 175 degrees F on thermometer, about 8-10 minutes.  Do not boil!  Remove from heat and cool custard to room temperature in pan, stirring frequently to prevent skin from forming, about 1 hour.  Discard bay leaves and serve custard over berries in a martini glass with bay leaf for garnish.