Appears in
The Fundamental Techniques of Classic Cuisine

By French Culinary Institute

Published 2021

  • About

A true sorbet does not contain any dairy product and is produced with only sugar, water, and a flavoring. Although often confused with sherbet, they are two different desserts. A sorbet is light and refreshing, while a dairy-based sherbet is a richer, heavier frozen treat. French sorbets are based on a mixture of sugar combined with a variety of fruit juices or purées, wines, spirits, or liqueurs. Sorbets may also be based on infusions made from aromatic or fragrant plants such as mint or lemon verbena. Depending upon the degree of sweetness, sorbet may be served as dessert or as an intermezzo between courses of a lengthy, elegant meal to cleanse the palate.