Granita alla mandorla
Granita alla mandorla, or Almond Granita, is a classic Italian frozen dessert that’s perfect for hot summer days. This delightful treat is made with almond flavoring and offers a refreshing slush-like texture. If you want to make a real Italian dessert at home or try a special almond-flavored ice slush, this recipe is for you!
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to make your very own homemade almond granita. It’s simple, refreshing, and a fantastic way to cool down while indulging in an Italian dessert.
What Is Granita alla Mandorla?
Granita is a traditional Italian dessert that originated in Sicily. It’s similar to a sorbet or ice slush but with a grainy texture that makes it unique. Almond Granita specifically is made with almond flavoring, which imparts a rich, nutty taste to the ice treat. It’s a popular dessert during the warmer months and a great way to enjoy frozen almond desserts.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make your almond granita, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 cup of almonds (blanched)
- 4 cups of water
- 1/2 cup of sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon of almond extract
- 1 tablespoon of lemon juice (optional, for added freshness)
Step-by-Step Almond Granita Recipe
1. Blanch and Blend the Almonds
First, blanch the almonds by placing them in boiling water for a few minutes. Once the skin comes off, remove the almonds and blend them into a smooth paste with a bit of water. This will be the base for your almond flavored ice.
2. Make the Almond Syrup
In a saucepan, combine the water and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Once the sugar has dissolved, remove from heat and add the almond paste and almond extract. Stir to combine.
3. Freeze the Mixture
Pour the almond syrup into a shallow pan. Place the pan in the freezer and every 30 minutes, use a fork to scrape the surface. Repeat this process for about 3 to 4 hours, until the mixture becomes icy and flaky.
4. Serve and Enjoy
Once your almond granita is ready, use a fork to fluff it up and serve in individual bowls or glasses. Optionally, garnish with a mint leaf or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for extra flavor.
Key Takeaways
- Granita alla Mandorla is an easy and delicious way to enjoy an Italian almond dessert.
- The almond granita recipe requires minimal ingredients and preparation time.
- The secret to a great granita is how you freeze and scrape it. Be patient, and you will enjoy a perfect almond ice treat.
FAQ
1. Can I make almond granita without almond extract?
Yes, you can use almond essence or even ground almonds for a more natural flavor.
2. How can I make this granita sweeter?
You can adjust the sugar to taste. You may also add a bit of honey for a natural sweetness.
3. Can I use other nuts for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can experiment with different nuts like hazelnuts or pistachios to make a variation of this dessert.
Conclusion
Almond Granita is an incredibly refreshing and simple Italian dessert that brings the flavors of Italy into your home. With just a few ingredients, you can create this frozen almond dessert and enjoy the cooling sensation of almond ice on a hot day. Treat your taste buds to this creamy Almond Ice Treat. You can make it as a homemade almond granita. Serve it at a gathering, and it will surely be a hit!