Semifreddo with oranges and berries

Semifreddo with Oranges and Berries

If you are looking for a quick and refined dessert that impresses with its creamy and aromatic taste, then this Semifreddo with Oranges and Berries recipe is exactly what you need! This delicate "ice cream" that does not require an ice cream maker will surely become your favorite, especially on warm summer days. It can be served as an elegant dessert at a special dinner or simply to indulge yourself during relaxation moments.

Total preparation time: 4 hours 30 minutes (including setting time)
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Chilling time: 4 hours
Number of servings: 8

Ingredients:
- 500 g heavy cream (32% fat)
- 400 g Greek yogurt (10% fat)
- 3 large eggs
- 5 tablespoons sugar
- Juice of half an orange
- 10 g gelatin
- 1 vanilla pod (or 1 teaspoon vanilla extract)
- 200 g berries (blueberries and red currants)
- 4-5 ladyfinger biscuits
- 50 g mint chocolate (optional, for decoration)

Preparation:

1. Preparing the gelatin: Start by hydrating the gelatin. Place the 10 g of gelatin in a small bowl and add 2-3 tablespoons of cold water. Let it swell for about 5-10 minutes.

2. Whip the cream: In a large bowl, pour the heavy cream and whip it with a mixer on medium speed until you achieve a firm but creamy texture. Do not overbeat it, or it will turn into butter! Once whipped, keep it in the fridge to chill further.

3. Prepare the egg mixture: In another bowl, crack the 3 eggs and add the 5 tablespoons of sugar. Mix on high speed until the mixture becomes creamy and the sugar dissolves completely. This is the moment to add the juice of half an orange and the seeds from the vanilla pod (or vanilla extract). Mix well.

4. Heating the mixture: Transfer the egg mixture to a saucepan and heat it over low heat, stirring constantly. Do not let it boil! The goal is to warm the mixture enough to dissolve the gelatin. Once warm, add the hydrated gelatin and stir until completely dissolved. Remove from heat and let it cool.

5. Combining the ingredients: Once the egg mixture has cooled, add a tablespoon of the whipped cream, gently folding it in with a spatula until fully incorporated. This will help keep the air in the mixture, giving it a light and fluffy texture. Repeat this process until all the whipped cream is incorporated. Now you have a creamy and fragrant mixture!

6. Adding the fruits: Add the berries (blueberries and red currants) to the semifreddo mixture and gently fold, being careful not to crush the fruits. They will add a touch of freshness and a burst of color to your dessert.

7. Assembling the semifreddo: Prepare a loaf pan and line it with plastic wrap, leaving a longer edge hanging over the sides. Place a layer of the semifreddo mixture, followed by a layer of ladyfinger biscuits. Then, add another layer of semifreddo, continuing until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of semifreddo.

8. Chilling: Cover with plastic wrap and place in the freezer for about 4 hours or until the semifreddo is well set. If you have patience, it is ideal to let the semifreddo chill overnight.

9. Serving: Once the semifreddo is ready, remove it from the freezer and let it sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before slicing. This will make it easier to cut and provide a creamier texture. Decorate with grated mint chocolate, if desired, and add some fresh berries for an attractive look.

Practical tips:
- Make sure the cream is cold before whipping it, as this will help achieve a firmer texture.
- If you don't have gelatin, you can use agar-agar as an alternative, but make sure to follow the usage instructions on the package.
- Vary the berries according to the season; strawberries or raspberries are excellent substitutes for blueberries and currants.
- You can also add other flavors, such as a few drops of orange liqueur for an even more complex taste.

Nutritional benefits:
This recipe combines the proteins from eggs and yogurt with healthy fats from the cream, providing a delicious and satisfying dessert. Berries are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, contributing to a healthy lifestyle.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other types of yogurt?
Yes, you can use natural yogurt or Greek yogurt with different fat percentages, but Greek yogurt provides a creamier texture.

2. Can I replace gelatin with another ingredient?
Yes, agar-agar is a good vegan alternative, but make sure to follow the instructions on the package.

3. How can I store the semifreddo?
It stores well in the freezer for 1-2 weeks, but it is recommended to consume it within a few days to maintain its creamy texture.

4. What other desserts can it be combined with?
Semifreddo is delicious alongside a slice of chocolate cake or a tart with fresh fruits.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that’s left is to get cooking! This Semifreddo with Oranges and Berries will surely become a favorite in your family, and each slice will bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones. Enjoy!