What You’ll Need:
- 2 cups shelled pistachios
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Step 1: Blanching the Pistachios
To achieve a vibrant green color and a smooth texture in your pistachio paste, it’s crucial to blanch the pistachios. Start by bringing a pot of water to a boil and blanching the pistachios for about 1 minute. This will help loosen the skins.
Step 2: Removing the Skins
After blanching, drain the pistachios and transfer them to a bowl filled with ice water. Allow them to cool for a few minutes. Then, gently rub the skins off the pistachios, as they should easily slide off. Discard the skins and strain the pistachios from the water.
Step 3: Drying the Pistachios
Drying the pistachios is essential to prevent the paste from becoming too watery. Spread the blanched pistachios on a clean kitchen towel or a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Pat them dry with another towel or paper towel to remove any excess moisture. Let them air dry for about 15-20 minutes.
Step 4: Grinding the Pistachios
Once the pistachios are dry, transfer them to a food processor or a powerful blender. Pulse the pistachios until they are finely ground. You may need to scrape down the sides of the processor or blender occasionally to ensure even grinding. Be careful not to over-process and turn the mixture into pistachio butter.
Step 5: Creating the Pistachio Paste
Once the pistachios are finely ground, add the granulated sugar and water to the food processor or blender. Blend the mixture until a thick and smooth paste forms. This may take a few minutes, so be patient and stop to scrape down the sides if necessary. Finally, add the vanilla extract and blend again to incorporate it into the paste.
Step 6: Storing the Pistachio Paste
Your homemade pistachio paste is now ready to be used in gelato or other delicious recipes. Transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 weeks. Remember to label the container with the date for reference.
By following these simple steps, you can make your own pistachio paste for gelato with ease. The homemade paste bursting with the flavors and aromas of pistachios will elevate your gelato to new heights. So why not try your hand at making pistachio gelato from scratch and savor the creamy goodness?