Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup Empress Tree blossoms, chopped
Special Equipment Needed:
- Ice cream maker
- Fine mesh strainer
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
2. Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in vanilla extract and chopped Empress Tree blossoms. Let the mixture steep for 30 minutes.
3. After 30 minutes, strain the mixture through a fine mesh strainer into a clean bowl. Discard the Empress Tree blossoms.
4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate until completely chilled, at least 2 hours or overnight.
5. Once the mixture is chilled, pour it into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer's instructions.
6. Transfer the ice cream to a freezer-safe container and freeze until firm, at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 30 minutes
- Chilling time: 2 hours or overnight
- Freezing time: 4 hours or overnight
Temperature:
- Heat over medium heat until hot but not boiling.
- Freeze until firm.
Serving size:
- Makes about 1 quart of ice cream.
- Serving size: 1/2 cup.
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 320
- Fat: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Protein: 2g
- Sodium: 70mg
- Sugar: 27g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Heavy cream can be substituted with half-and-half or whole milk.
- Whole milk can be substituted with skim milk or almond milk.
- Granulated sugar can be substituted with honey or maple syrup.
- Empress Tree blossoms can be substituted with lavender or rose petals.
Variations:
- Add chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the ice cream mixture before churning.
- Use different types of edible flowers for a variety of flavors and colors.
- Make a vegan version by using coconut milk instead of heavy cream and whole milk.
Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure to strain the mixture before churning to remove any chunks or bits of Empress Tree blossoms.
- For a stronger Empress Tree flavor, increase the amount of blossoms used.
- To prevent ice crystals from forming, cover the ice cream with plastic wrap before freezing.
Storage Instructions:
- Store the ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks.
Reheating Instructions:
- Let the ice cream sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before serving to soften.
Presentation Ideas:
- Serve the ice cream in a bowl or cone.
- Top with fresh berries or whipped cream.
Garnishes:
- Fresh Empress Tree blossoms or other edible flowers.
- Chopped nuts or chocolate chips.
Pairings:
- Serve with a slice of cake or pie.
- Pair with a glass of sweet wine or champagne.
Suggested Side Dishes:
- Fresh fruit salad.
- Shortbread cookies.
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the ice cream is too hard, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften.
- If the ice cream is too soft, freeze it for a few more hours.
Food Safety Advice:
- Make sure to use only edible flowers and wash them thoroughly before using.
- Keep the ice cream at a safe temperature of 0°F (-18°C) or below.
Food History:
- The Empress Tree, also known as the Royal Empress Tree or Paulownia Tree, is native to China and has been used for medicinal purposes for centuries. Its flowers have a sweet, delicate flavor and are often used in teas and desserts.
Flavor Profiles:
- Sweet, creamy, and floral.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve as a dessert or as a refreshing treat on a hot day.
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