Mint ice cream

Mint ice cream is a refreshing delicacy, perfect for warm days or as an elegant finish to a dinner. This simple and quick recipe combines the fresh flavors of mint with the creaminess of milk and cream, providing a unique taste experience. Making ice cream at home will not only delight your taste buds but also be a fulfilling activity that brings smiles to your face and pleasant moments with your loved ones.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Freezing time: 4 hours (with occasional stirring)
Number of servings: 6-8

Ingredients:
- 250 ml cream (ideal for whipping, with a fat content of 30-35%)
- 250 ml milk
- 100 ml mint liqueur (you can also use mint syrup for a non-alcoholic version)
- 80 g powdered sugar
- Mint syrup (optional, for an even more intense flavor)

Necessary utensils:
- A saucepan
- A whisk
- A spatula
- A tray or container for freezing (lined with plastic wrap)
- A mixer (if you want to whip the cream, otherwise it can be done manually)

Making mint ice cream:

1. Preparing the ice cream base: In a saucepan, combine the milk with the powdered sugar. Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir constantly until the sugar is completely dissolved. Continue to heat the mixture until it reaches boiling point, but do not let it boil. Once it starts to boil, remove the saucepan from the heat.

2. Cooling the mixture: Allow the mixture to cool slightly at room temperature, then place it in a container and transfer it to the refrigerator. It is important for the mixture to be completely cold before adding the remaining ingredients.

3. Adding the liqueur: Once the milk mixture has completely cooled, add the mint liqueur (or mint syrup if you choose this version) and mix well with the whisk, ensuring it is homogeneous.

4. Whipping the cream: In a separate bowl, whip the cream until it becomes firm, being careful not to turn it into butter. If you don't have a mixer, you can use a whisk, but it will require more effort. Gradually add the whipped cream to the milk mixture, stirring with a spatula or whisk from the bottom up to keep the air in the composition.

5. Freezing: Pour the mixture into the tray lined with plastic wrap. Place a layer of wafer on top (this will give a crunchy appearance and a pleasant contrast of textures) and put everything in the freezer.

6. Occasional stirring: After about 30 minutes, take the ice cream out of the freezer and stir well with a spatula. Repeat this process 2-3 times at 30-minute intervals. This step is essential for achieving creamy ice cream without ice crystals.

7. Serving: After the ice cream has been in the freezer for 4 hours or until firm, you can take it out and cut it into portions. You can serve it plain or with a drizzle of mint syrup for an extra flavor boost.

Useful tips:
- Choosing the ingredients: Use cream with a higher fat content to achieve creamier ice cream. The mint liqueur provides an intense flavor, but you can experiment with other flavors, such as chocolate or vanilla.
- Variations: You can add dark chocolate chunks or chocolate chips to the mixture for a delicious contrast. You can also replace the mint liqueur with a natural mint syrup for a non-alcoholic version.
- Serving: Mint ice cream pairs perfectly with a glass of lemonade or a fresh summer cocktail. You can accompany it with crunchy cakes or cookies for a complete culinary experience.

Nutritional benefits:
Mint ice cream provides a source of calcium from milk and cream, and mint is known for its digestive properties. However, it is important to consume this delicacy in moderation, considering the sugar content.

Frequently asked questions:
- How long does mint ice cream last in the freezer? It can be stored for up to a month in the freezer, but to maintain its texture and flavor, it is recommended to consume it within 2 weeks.
- Can I make mint ice cream without sugar? Yes, you can use natural sweeteners like stevia or erythritol, but the result may vary.

By following these steps, you will achieve delicious mint ice cream with a smooth texture and fresh taste that all your loved ones will adore. Enjoy every scoop and savor the sweetness of summer!