Strawberry ice cream

Strawberry Ice Cream: The Perfect Indulgence for Hot Days

Who doesn't love a delicious ice cream on a warm summer day? This simple and quick strawberry ice cream recipe will take you back to the sunny days of childhood and moments spent with loved ones. With every spoonful, you'll enjoy the natural sweetness of strawberries, combined with the creaminess of cream, creating a dessert that not only cools you down but also delights your taste buds.

Preparation Time and Servings
- Total Time: 8 hours (including freezing time)
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Freezing Time: 7 hours
- Number of Servings: 6-8

Ingredients
- 1 kg fresh, ripe strawberries
- 200 ml heavy cream (preferably with a fat content of 30-35%)
- 5 tablespoons powdered sugar (or to taste)

A Bit of History
Ice cream and sorbet have been enjoyed since ancient times, becoming a symbol of summer indulgence. Strawberries, a staple ingredient in many desserts, have a fascinating history, having been cultivated for thousands of years. Beyond their delicious taste, strawberries are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making them not only a tasty ingredient but also a healthy one.

Step-by-Step Guide for Strawberry Ice Cream

1. Preparing the Strawberries
Start by washing the strawberries thoroughly under cold running water. Make sure to remove the stems and any remaining leaves. Fresh, ripe strawberries will provide the best flavor. You can use frozen strawberries, but the flavor won't be as intense.

2. Puree the Strawberries
Use a blender or food processor to puree the strawberries until you achieve a smooth consistency. If you prefer a more rustic texture, you can mash them with a fork, leaving some larger pieces for added flavor.

3. Mix the Ingredients
In a large bowl, add the strawberry puree, heavy cream, and powdered sugar. Mix well with a spatula or whisk until all ingredients are perfectly combined. You can adjust the amount of sugar to your taste, especially if the strawberries are very sweet.

4. Initial Freezing
Pour the mixture into a plastic container or glass dish, cover it with a lid or plastic wrap, and place it in the freezer for about 2 hours. This step helps in achieving a creamy texture.

5. Mixing and Final Freezing
After 2 hours, take the container out of the freezer and vigorously mix the mixture with a fork or hand mixer. This step is essential to prevent ice crystals from forming and to achieve a smoother ice cream. Then, return the container to the freezer for 5-6 hours, preferably overnight.

6. Serving the Ice Cream
Once the ice cream has hardened, take it out of the freezer about 10 minutes before serving. This will allow it to soften slightly, making it easier to scoop. Use a knife or ice cream scoop to form perfectly round balls and serve in cups or cones.

Serving Suggestions
Strawberry ice cream pairs perfectly with warm chocolate sauce or a topping of fresh whipped cream. You can also add a few fresh mint leaves for an elegant touch. A delicious combination is to serve it alongside a glass of prosecco or lemonade, creating a refreshing and festive dessert.

Variations and Tips
- Substitute part of the cream with Greek yogurt for a healthier and slightly tangy version.
- Add a few drops of vanilla extract or a pinch of cinnamon for a more complex flavor.
- Experiment with fruit combinations, such as strawberries mixed with raspberries or mango, to create new ice cream variations.

Nutritional Information
This strawberry ice cream contains approximately per serving:
- Calories: 150
- Fat: 8 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Protein: 2 g

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, but make sure to let them thaw completely before pureeing.

2. How can I make the ice cream less sweet?
Reduce the amount of sugar or use very ripe strawberries, which are naturally sweeter.

3. Can the ice cream be made without cream?
Yes, you can use coconut milk or yogurt for a lighter and vegan option.

This strawberry ice cream is not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying. Perfect for enjoying on hot summer days, it brings a touch of happiness to every spoonful. So, get ready to indulge and enjoy a dessert that will delight your senses! Enjoy your meal!