Persian Saffron Ice Cream Recipe
Are you tired of the same old flavors of ice cream and looking to try something new and exotic? Look no further than Persian saffron ice cream! This luxurious dessert is known for its unique flavor and vibrant yellow color, but can be hard to find in many ice cream shops.
Luckily, in this blog post, we’ll show you how easy it is to make your own Persian saffron ice cream at home.
With just a few simple ingredients and some patience, you’ll be able to enjoy this decadent treat whenever you want. Keep reading to find out how to make this delicious dessert and impress your friends and family with your culinary skills.
Ingredients for making Persian Saffron Ice Cream
Ingredients needed:
- 2 cups heavy cream – Heavy cream is a rich and creamy liquid that is perfect for making ice cream. It adds a luxurious mouthfeel and decadent flavor to the ice cream.
- 1 cup whole milk – Whole milk adds a creamy texture and richness to the ice cream base. It also helps to balance out the richness of the heavy cream.
- 1 cup sugar – Sugar is essential for sweetening the ice cream base and creating a smooth, creamy texture. It enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
- 2 teaspoons saffron threads – Saffron threads are a highly prized spice known for their vibrant color and unique flavor. They add a floral, aromatic flavor to the ice cream.
- 1 teaspoon rose water – Rose water brings a delicate floral aroma and flavor to the ice cream. It complements the saffron and adds a lovely touch of sweetness.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom – Ground cardamom adds a warm, slightly citrusy flavor to the ice cream. It pairs beautifully with saffron and rose water.
- 1/4 cup chopped pistachios – Chopped pistachios add a crunchy texture and nutty flavor to the ice cream. They also add a pop of color to the finished dish.
- 1/4 cup chopped almonds – Chopped almonds bring a rich, nutty flavor and crunchy texture to the ice cream. They complement the pistachios and add another layer of flavor.
- 1/4 cup chopped dried figs – Chopped dried figs add a chewy texture and natural sweetness to the ice cream. They provide a burst of fruity flavor in each bite.
Equipments Needed for making Persian Saffron Ice Cream
Equipment Needed:
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Pot
- Stovetop
- Ice cream maker
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Freezer-safe container
- Spatula
Cooking Process for making Persian Saffron Ice Cream
- Start by gently simmering the milk and cream in a saucepan over medium heat, making sure not to let it boil.
- Add the saffron threads and let them steep in the mixture for about 10 minutes to infuse the flavors.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and sugar until light and creamy.
- Slowly pour the warm milk mixture into the eggs while whisking constantly to temper them.
- Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring continuously, until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon.
- Remove from heat and let it cool completely before transferring it to an ice cream maker.
- Churn the mixture according to the manufacturer’s instructions until it reaches a thick, creamy consistency.
- Transfer the ice cream to a container and freeze for at least 4 hours before serving.
Enjoy the rich and aromatic flavors of this traditional Persian dessert!
Suggestions for Serving
Side Dish and Beverage Pairing:
This Persian saffron ice cream goes well with a side of baklava or Persian rosewater pudding (faloodeh) for a complete traditional Iranian dessert experience.For beverages, you can pair this creamy and fragrant saffron ice cream with a hot cup of Persian tea or a refreshing glass of traditional doogh (Persian yogurt drink).
Plating Tips:
To plate this Persian saffron ice cream elegantly, you can scoop it into small bowls or decorative dessert glasses.
Garnish the ice cream with a sprinkle of ground pistachios, a few strands of saffron, or edible rose petals for a visually pleasing presentation.
Cultural Serving Customs:
In Persian culture, serving ice cream is often accompanied by offering guests a small cup of brewed saffron-infused tea or a slice of traditional baklava as a sweet treat.
Nutritional Value of Persian Saffron Ice Cream
- Nutrition Value (per serving):
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 4g
- Sugar: 20g
- Fat: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 0g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
- Sodium: 50mg
Please note that these values are approximate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
FAQ
What makes Persian saffron ice cream unique?
Persian saffron ice cream, also known as bastani sonnati, is unique because it combines the luxurious flavor of saffron with the rich and creamy texture of ice cream. The addition of rosewater and pistachios gives it a distinct Middle Eastern flair.
Where can I buy saffron for this recipe?
You can buy high-quality saffron from specialty spice stores, Middle Eastern grocery stores, or online from reputable sellers. Look for saffron threads, as they are the purest form of saffron.
Can I substitute any ingredients in this recipe?
While the traditional Persian saffron ice cream recipe calls for certain ingredients like rosewater and pistachios, you can definitely make substitutions based on your preferences. For example, you can use almonds instead of pistachios or omit the rosewater altogether.
How long does it take to make Persian saffron ice cream?
Making Persian saffron ice cream from scratch can take anywhere from 4 to 6 hours, including chilling and churning time. It is a labor-intensive process but the end result is absolutely worth it!
Can I make this recipe without an ice cream maker?
While an ice cream maker will give you the best texture and consistency, you can still make Persian saffron ice cream without one. Simply pour the mixture into a shallow container and freeze it, stirring every 30 minutes until it reaches the desired consistency.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Persian saffron ice cream is a delicious and exotic dessert that is easy to make at home. By following this simple recipe, you can create a creamy and aromatic treat that will surely impress your friends and family.
The unique flavor and vibrant color of saffron elevate this ice cream to a whole new level of indulgence. So why not try your hand at making Persian saffron ice cream and enjoy a taste of the Middle East in the comfort of your own home?
