Strawberry and chocolate ice cream

Strawberry and Chocolate Ice Cream: A Summer Delight

Who doesn't love ice cream? This refreshing treat reminds us of sunny days and joyful moments spent with loved ones. Homemade ice cream is an unparalleled culinary experience, with the advantage that we can choose the healthiest ingredients. In today's recipe, I will present two delicious variations: strawberry ice cream and chocolate ice cream. And if you're curious, I'll also share a few tricks to achieve a creamy and flavorful texture.

Preparation Time:
- Preparation time: 30 minutes
- Freezing time: 4-5 hours
- Total time: 5-5.5 hours
- Servings: 8

Necessary Ingredients:

*For chocolate ice cream:*
- 150 g sugar
- 3 egg yolks
- 300 ml milk
- 400 ml cream (preferably from a local farm)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon cocoa
- 60 g dark chocolate, broken into pieces

*For strawberry ice cream:*
- 200 g sugar + 3 tablespoons sugar
- 3 egg yolks
- 300 ml milk
- 400 ml cream (preferably from a local farm)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 250 g fresh strawberries
- 150 g mascarpone

Preparation Steps:

*Step 1: Chocolate Ice Cream*

1. Start by adding milk, sugar, cocoa, and salt in a metal bowl. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
2. Meanwhile, beat the egg yolks with a fork. When the milk begins to boil, add 2-3 tablespoons of hot milk over the yolks, stirring vigorously to prevent them from turning into an omelet.
3. Pour the egg mixture over the boiled milk and keep on low heat, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens.
4. Remove the pot from heat and add the chocolate pieces, stirring well until the chocolate is completely incorporated.
5. Allow the mixture to cool, then add the cream, gently stirring to achieve a creamy texture. Pour the mixture into a prepared freezing container and leave in the freezer for 4-5 hours. To achieve a smoother consistency, break the ice crystals every hour.

*Step 2: Strawberry Ice Cream*

1. Wash the strawberries well and mash them with a fork (or use a blender for a finer texture, but I personally prefer larger pieces). Add the 3 tablespoons of sugar and set aside.
2. In another pot, heat the milk with sugar and salt. When the mixture starts to boil, add a few tablespoons of hot milk over the beaten yolks. Then, pour the eggs into the pot with the milk on the heat, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens.
3. Remove from heat and let cool. Once cooled, add the strawberries and cream, gently stirring to avoid crushing the strawberries.
4. Mixing the mascarpone on low speed will give a creamy consistency. Add it to the strawberry mixture and stir gently.
5. Pour the mixture into the freezing container and proceed as for the chocolate ice cream.

Serving and Suggestions:

When both ice creams are completely frozen, it's time to enjoy them! You can serve them separately or create a delicious sundae with both flavors. Add some toppings, such as chopped nuts, chocolate syrup, or fresh fruit, to make them even more appetizing. Serve them alongside a glass of fresh lemonade or iced coffee for a perfect combination.

Tricks and Tips:
- To achieve the creamiest ice cream, make sure the ingredients are well chilled before mixing.
- If you don't have cream on hand, a good alternative can be cream cheese or Greek yogurt, which will add a note of freshness.
- Ice cream can be stored in the freezer for a few weeks, but it will be best in the first few days when the texture is optimal.

Nutritional Benefits:
This homemade ice cream recipe is healthier than store-bought ones, as you have full control over the ingredients. Strawberries are rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber, while dark chocolate contains flavonoids beneficial for the heart. The cream provides a source of calcium, essential for bone health.

Frequently Asked Questions:
- *Can I use plant-based milk?* Yes, almond or coconut milk can be an excellent alternative.
- *How can I make the ice cream sweeter?* Add more sugar or use a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup.
- *Is it possible to make the ice cream without eggs?* Sure! You can omit the eggs and replace them with a mixture of milk and cream.

Now that you know how to make this delicious strawberry and chocolate ice cream, all that's left is to put on your apron and start your culinary adventure. Enjoy every spoonful and let yourself be carried away by the intense flavors and fresh aromas! Enjoy your meal!