Ingredients with Measurements:
- 4 cups freshly squeezed orange juice
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
Special equipment needed:
- A shallow metal or glass baking dish
- A fork or whisk
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine water and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar dissolves.
2. Remove from heat and stir in orange juice, orange zest, and lemon juice.
3. Pour the mixture into a shallow metal or glass baking dish and place it in the freezer.
4. After 30 minutes, use a fork or whisk to scrape the mixture and break up any ice crystals that have formed.
5. Repeat this process every 30 minutes for 2-3 hours, until the mixture is completely frozen and has a granular texture.
6. Once the granita is frozen, use a fork to scrape it into fluffy ice crystals.
7. Serve immediately in chilled glasses.
Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 2-3 hours
Temperature:
Freeze at 0°F (-18°C)
Serving size:
This recipe makes 6 servings.
Nutritional information:
Calories: 190
Fat: 0g
Sodium: 2mg
Carbohydrates: 49g
Fiber: 0g
Sugar: 47g
Protein: 1g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use any citrus fruit juice instead of orange juice.
- You can use honey or agave nectar instead of granulated sugar.
Variations:
- Add a splash of vodka or tequila for an adult version.
- Add a pinch of chili powder for a spicy kick.
- Use grapefruit juice instead of orange juice for a tangy twist.
Tips and tricks:
- Use freshly squeezed juice for the best flavor.
- Make sure to scrape the mixture every 30 minutes to prevent it from freezing into a solid block.
- Serve the granita in chilled glasses to keep it from melting too quickly.
Storage instructions:
- Store any leftover granita in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 1 week.
Reheating instructions:
- To serve leftover granita, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly before scraping it with a fork.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the granita in chilled glasses with a sprig of fresh mint or a slice of orange on top.
Garnishes:
- Fresh mint leaves
- Orange slices
- Whipped cream
Pairings:
- Serve with a light salad or grilled fish for a refreshing summer meal.
Suggested side dishes:
- Grilled vegetables
- Rice pilaf
- Crusty bread
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the granita freezes into a solid block, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften before scraping it with a fork.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to use clean utensils and containers when making and storing the granita.
- Store the granita in the freezer at 0°F (-18°C) to prevent bacterial growth.
Food history:
- Granita is a traditional Italian dessert that originated in Sicily in the 16th century.
Flavor profiles:
- Sweet, tangy, and refreshing.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the granita as a light and refreshing dessert after a heavy meal.
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
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Region: Italian
Taste: Refreshing, Tangy, Citrusy, Sweet, Fruity