Making a granita is surprisingly easy, and you only need a few basic ingredients and some time in the freezer. Here is a simple recipe to get started:
Ingredients
– 2 cups water
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 2 cups fruit juice or other flavourings (e.g., lemon juice, coffee, herbal tea)
Instructions
1. Combine the water and sugar in a saucepan and heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Once the sugar has dissolved, remove the saucepan from the heat and let the mixture cool to room temperature.
2. Pour the fruit juice or other flavourings into the sugar syrup and stir to combine.
3. Pour the mixture into a shallow, freezer-safe container (e.g., a baking dish) and place it in the freezer. After 30-45 minutes, use a fork to scrape the mixture, breaking up any ice crystals that have formed. Place the dish back in the freezer.
4. Continue to scrape the mixture every 30-45 minutes, until it has turned into a coarse, slushy texture. This can take anywhere from 2 to 6 hours, depending on how powerful your freezer is and how much mixture you’re freezing.
5. Once the granita has reached the desired consistency, spoon it into serving bowls or cups and enjoy immediately. You can also cover and freeze any leftovers, but they may become harder and more difficult to scoop.
Variations
The beauty of a granita is that you can customize it with endless flavour combinations. Here are some suggestions to get your creativity flowing:
– Fruit flavours: Try using different types of fruit juices, such as orange, grapefruit, pomegranate, or watermelon. You can also blend fresh or frozen fruit in a blender and use that as the base.
– Coffee flavours: Brew a strong pot of coffee and add it to the sugar syrup. Experiment with adding spices such as cinnamon, cardamom or nutmeg.
– Tea flavours: Brew a strong pot of your favourite herbal tea and add it to the sugar syrup. Chai and peppermint teas work great.
Tips
– Use a shallow container: The shallow the container, the faster the granita will freeze.
– Scrape often: Be patient when making a granita but remember to scrape the mixture often to obtain the right texture.
– Don’t blend: While using a blender may seem like the easiest way to get a smooth texture, it will result in more of a slushy than a true granita.
In conclusion, granita is a delightful and refreshing dessert that is perfect for summer or any time of year. With its endless flavours and easy preparation, it’s no wonder that it has become a beloved treat around the world.