Ice cream with currants

Blackcurrant Ice Cream: A Summer Delight

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Freezing time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Number of servings: 6

Who can resist a creamy and fragrant ice cream on a hot summer day? This blackcurrant ice cream recipe is not only easy to make but also a healthy and delicious option to cool down. The blackcurrants, with their tangy taste, perfectly complement the smooth texture of the ice cream, providing a delightful contrast. Let’s embark on this culinary journey!

A Bit of History

Ice cream has been appreciated throughout time as a royal dessert, initially reserved for special occasions. Over the years, recipes have diversified, and today we can find ice cream made from a variety of ingredients, including fresh fruits, exotic flavors, and unique combinations. Blackcurrants, small fruits rich in antioxidants, bring a touch of freshness and vitality to our dessert.

Necessary Ingredients

- 500 ml whole milk
- 4 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 4 eggs (2 yolks and 2 whites)
- 500 ml liquid cream (like Hulala)
- 5 tablespoons blackcurrant jam
- A pinch of salt (optional)

Step by Step for Perfect Ice Cream

1. Boil the milk: Start by pouring the milk into a saucepan and bringing it to a boil. It is essential that the milk is whole to achieve a creamy texture. Meanwhile, you can prepare the other ingredients.

2. Prepare the yolks: In a bowl, whisk the yolks with 2 tablespoons of sugar until they become a frothy paste and light yellow. This step is crucial for achieving airy ice cream.

3. Milk and egg mixture: When the milk has started boiling, reduce the heat to low and gradually pour the yolk mixture into the saucepan, stirring constantly. This prevents the eggs from cooking too quickly and ensures a smooth cream.

4. Thickening the mixture: Continue stirring over low heat until the mixture thickens, coating the back of a spatula. It is important not to let the mixture boil, or it will curdle.

5. Cooling: Once the mixture has thickened, turn off the heat and let it cool completely. This step is essential to prevent the cream from melting when you add it.

6. Whip the egg whites: In another bowl, beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt (optional) until stiff peaks form. Gradually add the remaining sugar and continue beating until you achieve a glossy meringue.

7. Whip the cream: Whip the liquid cream until it becomes firm, being careful not to turn it into butter. The ideal texture is slightly airy yet stable.

8. Combining the ingredients: Gently fold the whipped egg whites and cream into the milk and yolk mixture using a spatula. The movements should be gentle to maintain the air in the mixture.

9. Initial freezing: Transfer the mixture to plastic containers and place it in the freezer for about 1 hour. This step will help achieve a fine texture, preventing excessive crystallization.

10. Adding the blackcurrants: After the mixture has started to freeze, take it out of the freezer and add the blackcurrant jam. This is important to prevent the fruits from settling at the bottom of the cups. Gently mix to distribute the blackcurrants evenly.

11. Final freezing: Put the ice cream back in the freezer to harden completely, letting it sit for at least 3-4 hours, ideally overnight.

Serving the Ice Cream

Blackcurrant ice cream is best served in cups or plastic glasses, but you can also opt for a crispy cone. You can decorate with a few fresh blackcurrants on top or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for added flavor. It’s a perfect dessert to enjoy with friends and family, bringing smiles to everyone’s faces.

Tips and Variations

- You can substitute blackcurrants with other berries, such as raspberries or blackberries, to create an ice cream with different flavors.
- If you prefer a more intense taste, add a few drops of vanilla extract to the milk and egg mixture.
- If you don’t have blackcurrant jam on hand, you can use fresh or frozen blackcurrant puree, adjusting the amount of sugar in the recipe to balance the acidity.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why should I add the blackcurrants after the mixture has started to freeze?
Blackcurrants tend to settle at the bottom of the cups if added too early. By adding them later, you ensure they distribute evenly.

2. Can I use skim milk?
While you can use skim milk, the final result will be less creamy. Whole milk is recommended for a rich texture.

3. How can I make the ice cream less sweet?
Adjust the amount of sugar in the recipe according to your preferences. You can reduce the sugar by 1-2 tablespoons and taste it.

Nutritional Benefits

This blackcurrant ice cream is a healthier choice compared to many store-bought desserts. Blackcurrants are rich in vitamins C and K, antioxidants, and fiber, helping to strengthen the immune system and improve digestive health. Additionally, using liquid cream ensures a rich and pleasant texture without adding artificial ingredients.

In conclusion, blackcurrant ice cream is a quick and easy dessert to prepare, perfect for enjoying on hot summer days. So, don’t hesitate and give it a try! What could be more pleasant than cooling down with a homemade ice cream full of natural flavors? Enjoy!