Ingredients with Measurements:
- 4 cups fresh peaches, peeled and chopped
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
Special equipment needed:
- Blender or food processor
- Ice cream maker
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine water and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until sugar dissolves. Remove from heat and let cool.
2. In a blender or food processor, puree the chopped peaches until smooth.
3. Add the cooled sugar syrup and lemon juice to the pureed peaches and blend until well combined.
4. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer's instructions until it reaches a slushy consistency.
5. Transfer the mixture to a freezer-safe container and freeze for at least 2 hours or until firm.
6. To serve, scoop the peach Italian ice into bowls or cups and enjoy!
- Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 5 minutes
- Freezing time: 2 hours
Temperature:
- Freezer temperature: 0°F (-18°C)
Serving size:
- This recipe makes 6 servings.
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 168
- Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 1g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use frozen peaches instead of fresh peaches.
- You can use honey or agave nectar instead of granulated sugar.
- You can use lime juice instead of lemon juice.
Variations:
- You can add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the mixture for a spiced flavor.
- You can add chopped fresh mint or basil to the mixture for a herb-infused flavor.
- You can add a splash of rum or vodka to the mixture for an adult version.
Tips and tricks:
- To make the peaches easier to peel, blanch them in boiling water for 30 seconds and then transfer them to an ice bath.
- To make the Italian ice smoother, strain the pureed mixture through a fine-mesh sieve before adding the sugar syrup and lemon juice.
- To prevent ice crystals from forming, stir the mixture every 30 minutes while it's freezing.
Storage instructions:
- Store the peach Italian ice in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 1 month.
Reheating instructions:
- There's no need to reheat the peach Italian ice. Simply let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften before serving.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the peach Italian ice in clear glass bowls or cups to showcase its vibrant color.
- Top the peach Italian ice with fresh peach slices or whipped cream for added texture and flavor.
Garnishes:
- Fresh peach slices
- Whipped cream
- Mint leaves
Pairings:
- Vanilla ice cream
- Pound cake
- Shortbread cookies
Suggested side dishes:
- Grilled peaches
- Arugula salad with peach vinaigrette
- Peach and goat cheese crostini
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the Italian ice is too icy, try adding a tablespoon of corn syrup or honey to the mixture before freezing.
- If the Italian ice is too sweet, try reducing the amount of sugar or adding more lemon juice to balance the flavors.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to wash your hands and all utensils before handling food.
- Store the peach Italian ice in the freezer at 0°F (-18°C) or below to prevent bacterial growth.
Food history:
- Italian ice, also known as granita, originated in Sicily in the 16th century. It was traditionally made with snow and fruit juice, but modern versions use ice and a variety of flavors.
Flavor profiles:
- Sweet, tangy, and refreshing
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the peach Italian ice as a light and refreshing dessert on a hot summer day.
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Taste: Sweet, Tart, Fruity, Refreshing