Pistachio ice cream

Pistachio Ice Cream – A Sweet and Creamy Indulgence

If you're looking for a quick dessert that impresses with its texture and flavor, pistachio ice cream is the perfect choice. This easy-to-make recipe will not only cool you down on warm days but also add a touch of elegance to any occasion. The pistachio, with its green hues and distinctive flavor, transforms this simple dessert into a refined delicacy.

Loading time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Number of servings: 6 servings

Ingredients needed for a delicious ice cream:

- 150 g pistachios (choose unsalted for a milder taste)
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 2 cups milk (preferably whole for a creamier texture)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla or almond extract (choose according to your preferences)
- 4 egg yolks (from fresh, preferably organic eggs)
- 1 cup heavy cream (with at least 30% fat content for an airy consistency)

Step by step to a dream dessert:

1. Preparing the pistachios: Start by shelling the pistachios, removing the thin brown skin that covers them. This step is essential for achieving a vibrant color and a more pleasant taste in the ice cream. If you have roasted pistachios, make sure they are unsalted.

2. Grinding the pistachios: Take about 100 g of pistachios and grind them finely along with half of the sugar (about 37 g). This mixture will add an intense pistachio flavor to the ice cream base.

3. Preparing the milk base: In a double-bottomed pot (this helps with even heat distribution), pour in the milk along with the pistachio powder. Place the pot over low heat and stir continuously. It is important not to let the milk boil too hard, just until it starts to form bubbles on the surface. When you notice this, remove the pot from the heat.

4. Creating the egg yolk cream: In a separate bowl, beat the egg yolks with the remaining sugar (about 37 g) and the vanilla or almond extract until you obtain a sticky, light-colored cream. This mixture will thicken the ice cream and give it a rich flavor.

5. Combining the ingredients: Pour the egg yolk cream over the warm milk, stirring gently. Put the mixture back on low heat and continue stirring constantly for about 10 minutes. The goal is to achieve a soft cream that does not boil. If the mixture becomes too thick, remove it from the heat immediately.

6. Cooling the cream: Allow the cream to cool for 1-2 hours. This step is crucial, as the ice cream will have a smoother texture if the ingredients are properly cooled.

7. Finishing the ice cream: Once the cream has cooled, add the remaining chopped pistachios and the heavy cream. Blend everything until you obtain a thin and homogeneous cream.

8. Freezing: Pour the mixture into bowls or containers and place it in the freezer. Let the ice cream freeze for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to set perfectly.

Serving the pistachio ice cream:

To add a touch of refinement, you can decorate each serving with chopped roasted pistachios or a caramel sauce. Serve the ice cream with a glass of sweet wine or a fruit tea to complete the culinary experience.

Nutritional benefits of pistachios:

Pistachios are not only delicious but also extremely beneficial for health. They are rich in proteins, fiber, and healthy fats, which contribute to heart health. Additionally, pistachios contain antioxidants that can help reduce inflammation in the body.

Tips and variations:

1. Flavor variations: Experiment with different flavors by adding cocoa, coffee, or even fresh fruits to the ice cream mixture.

2. Dairy-free ice cream: For a vegan option, use almond or coconut milk and replace the heavy cream with a plant-based alternative.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use salted pistachios? It is recommended to use unsalted pistachios to avoid an overly salty taste in the ice cream.

2. How can I achieve creamier ice cream? Make sure to mix all the ingredients well and let them cool completely before putting them in the freezer.

3. How long can the ice cream be stored? Pistachio ice cream can be kept in the freezer for up to 2 months, but it is always best enjoyed fresh.

Now that you have all the necessary information, don’t hesitate to try this simple pistachio ice cream recipe! It’s a dessert that will bring a smile to your loved ones' faces and will remain in everyone’s memory as a memorable delicacy. Savor every spoonful and enjoy this creamy indulgence!