Mint chocolate ice cream

Mint chocolate ice cream - a creamy and refreshing indulgence

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Chilling time: 30 minutes (plus freezing time)
Total time: 2 hours (including mixing time)
Number of servings: 6

Who doesn't love homemade ice cream, especially when it's enriched with fresh mint flavors and decadent chocolate? This mint chocolate ice cream recipe is not only a delicious choice for warm days but also an elegant dessert that impresses on any occasion. Whether you're hosting a gathering with friends or simply want to treat yourself, mint chocolate ice cream is the perfect choice.

Let’s begin our culinary journey!

Ingredients

- 3 egg yolks
- 250 ml milk
- 120 g sugar
- 250 ml cream
- 50 g dark chocolate
- A handful of fresh mint leaves
- 1 kiwi fruit
- 50 ml water

Necessary utensils

- Mixing bowl
- Mixer or whisk
- Pot
- Blender
- Strainer
- Freezer bowl
- Spatula

The history of mint chocolate ice cream

Ice cream is a beloved dessert worldwide, with deep roots in culinary history. This mint and chocolate variant became popular due to its unique flavor combination that offers a remarkable sensory experience. Mint, used as a medicinal and culinary ingredient since ancient times, pairs perfectly with chocolate, creating a delicious contrast. This recipe is a modern reinterpretation of a classic that blends tradition with innovation.

Step by step

1. Preparing the ice cream base
- Start by heating the milk in a pot over medium heat, being careful not to bring it to a boil. This will add a rich creaminess to your ice cream.
- In a separate bowl, mix 3 egg yolks with 120 g of sugar. Continue mixing until the mixture becomes light in color and creamy.
- Add the warm milk to the yolk mixture, stirring continuously to avoid cooking the eggs.

2. Thickening the mixture
- Place the mixture in a pot and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly for 5-7 minutes, until the mixture thickens slightly. It's essential not to boil, or it risks curdling.
- Once thickened, remove from heat and let it cool completely.

3. Whipping the cream
- While the mixture cools, whip 250 ml of cream until stiff. Make sure the cream is well chilled for the best results.

4. Preparing the mint and kiwi sauce
- In a blender, add a handful of fresh mint leaves and 1 chopped kiwi fruit, along with 50 ml of water. Blend until you achieve a smooth sauce.
- Strain the sauce through a sieve to remove large pieces.
- Place the obtained sauce in a pot, add 2 tablespoons of sugar, and heat until the sugar dissolves completely. Let it cool.

5. Combining the ingredients
- Add the mint and kiwi sauce to the yolk and cream mixture, mixing well to blend the flavors.
- Finely chop 50 g of dark chocolate and fold it into the mixture. This will add a crunchy texture to the ice cream.

6. Freezing the ice cream
- Transfer the mixture to the freezer bowl.
- After one hour, take the bowl out and mix the composition well with a spatula or mixer to break up the ice crystals. Repeat this process 3 times at one-hour intervals.

Serving and pairing suggestions

Mint chocolate ice cream is delicious served plain, but you can experiment by adding toppings such as toasted nuts, melted chocolate, or fresh fruits. It could also be enjoyed alongside chocolate syrup or a slice of chocolate cake for a decadent dessert.

Nutritional benefits

This mint chocolate ice cream is not just a tasty dessert but also a source of nutrients. Egg yolks contain quality proteins and essential vitamins, while mint adds a boost of antioxidants. Kiwi, rich in vitamin C, completes this recipe, providing a health boost.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use plant-based milk?
Yes, you can replace the milk with a plant-based alternative, such as almond or coconut milk.

- How can I make this recipe vegan?
Replace the yolks with a mixture of chia or flax seeds and use plant-based cream.

- How long can the ice cream be stored?
The ice cream keeps well in the freezer for up to 2-3 weeks.

Possible variations

If you want to add a personal touch to the recipe, you can try adding other fruits, such as raspberries or strawberries, to the mint sauce. You can also experiment with different types of chocolate, such as milk chocolate or white chocolate, for a different flavor.

We conclude this culinary adventure with one last suggestion: mint chocolate ice cream pairs perfectly with fresh lemonade or iced tea, turning any meal into a memorable experience. So, gather your ingredients and enjoy this delicious dessert, perfect for warm days!