Saffron, cardamom, and rose water ice cream

Saffron, Cardamom, and Rose Water Ice Cream

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Freezing time: 6-8 hours (best made a day in advance)
Servings: 4

The story behind this ice cream is one filled with flavor and tradition. Saffron, cardamom, and rose water ice cream is a refined delicacy inspired by culinary traditions from various cultures. This recipe brings together Eastern flavors in a creamy and enticing dessert, perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself. The ice cream is pudding-based, giving it a unique texture, while the combination of flavors transforms it into a true feast for the senses.

Ingredients

- 200 ml milk
- 100 g sugar
- 4 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 cardamom pods (cracked)
- 1/4 teaspoon saffron dissolved in 50 ml rose water
- 100 ml clotted cream

Ingredient Details

- Milk: The main base of the ice cream. You can use whole milk for a creamier texture or skim milk for a lighter version.
- Sugar: The perfect sweetener to balance the intense flavors of cardamom and saffron.
- Cornstarch: Helps create a creamy texture and thickens the mixture, making the ice cream less icy.
- Cardamom: An aromatic spice with a warm, floral taste. Make sure to crack it well to release all its flavors.
- Saffron: The most expensive spice in the world, it adds a golden hue and a unique, sophisticated flavor.
- Rose water: Provides a divine fragrance and a subtle floral taste that perfectly complements the other ingredients.
- Clotted cream: A thick cream that enriches the ice cream with a decadent texture.

Preparation Technique

1. Prepare the clotted cream: A day before making the ice cream, place the clotted cream in a dish and freeze it. It needs to be solid so it can be broken into pieces and added to the ice cream.

2. Make the base: In a saucepan, combine 200 ml of milk, 100 g of sugar, and the two cracked cardamom pods. Place the mixture over medium heat and stir constantly until the sugar completely dissolves.

3. Thicken the mixture: In a small bowl, mix the 4 tablespoons of cornstarch with a few tablespoons of cold milk (from the total of 200 ml) to form a smooth paste. Once the milk in the saucepan begins to boil, add the cornstarch paste and stir continuously. You will notice the mixture starting to thicken.

4. Add the flavors: Once the mixture has thickened, remove the saucepan from the heat and add the dissolved saffron and rose water. Stir well to ensure the flavors are evenly combined. Allow the mixture to cool to room temperature.

5. Freeze: After the mixture has cooled, transfer it to an airtight container and place it in the freezer. Every 20 minutes, take the container out and stir well with a fork or a hand mixer to prevent ice crystals from forming. Repeat this process 3-4 times.

6. Add the clotted cream: When the ice cream is almost fully frozen (usually after 2-3 hours), break the frozen clotted cream into small pieces and add it to the ice cream. Gently stir to avoid completely melting it, creating a pleasant contrast of textures.

7. Serve: Once the ice cream is fully frozen (usually after 6-8 hours), remove it from the freezer and let it soften for a few minutes before serving. You can serve it in cups, garnished with edible flowers or a drizzle of rose syrup for an elegant touch.

Possible Variations

- Dairy-free: You can substitute the milk and clotted cream with plant-based alternatives, such as coconut milk or coconut cream, for a vegan version.
- Fruit additions: You can add pieces of mango or peaches for a fruity and fresh note.
- Toasted nuts: Add some toasted nuts (such as almonds or pistachios) for an extra crunch.

Helpful Tip

To ensure the ice cream doesn’t become too hard, you can use an ice cream maker, which will maintain the creamy textures and prevent ice crystals from forming.

Frequently Asked Questions

- What is clotted cream? Clotted cream is a thick cream often used in desserts to add a layer of creaminess.
- Can I use other spices? Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of cardamom, you can experiment with cinnamon or vanilla.
- How do I store the ice cream? The ice cream can be stored in the freezer for up to two weeks. Make sure it is well covered to prevent ice crystals from forming.

Ideal Pairings

This ice cream pairs perfectly with mint tea or green tea to enhance the floral flavors. You can also serve it alongside nut cakes or almond cookies for a more complex dessert.

In conclusion, saffron, cardamom, and rose water ice cream is not only a delicious dessert but also a cooking experience filled with fascinating flavors and textures. Once you try this recipe, it will surely become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. Treat yourself and enjoy every spoonful!