Forget everything you think you know about ice cream. This recipe isn't about sugary indulgence; it's about sneaking healthy greens into a dessert that's actually delicious. Believe it or not, this broccoli ice cream is creamy, subtly sweet, and surprisingly refreshing. It’s a perfect healthy meal option for those looking for quick dinner ideas, or a unique treat for the adventurous palate. This easy recipe is perfect for homemade cooking and will quickly become one of your best recipes.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups broccoli florets (about 1 large head)
- 1 cup full-fat coconut milk (canned, refrigerated overnight)
- ½ cup unsweetened almond milk (or other milk of choice)
- ¼ cup maple syrup (or to taste)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon lemon juice
- Pinch of sea salt
Instructions:
Step 1: Steam the Broccoli
Steam the broccoli florets until very tender, about 8-10 minutes. You want them completely soft and easily mashed. Overcooked broccoli is key to a smooth ice cream texture.
Step 2: Blend it All Together
Once the broccoli is cool enough to handle, add it to a high-speed blender along with the coconut milk (scoop out the thick cream from the top of the can), almond milk, maple syrup, vanilla extract, lemon juice, and salt.
Step 3: Blend until Smooth
Blend on high speed until completely smooth and creamy. This might take a few minutes, scraping down the sides as needed. The mixture should be completely free of broccoli chunks.
Step 4: Freeze for Creamy Goodness
Pour the mixture into a freezer-safe container and freeze for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. For the best results, stir or churn the ice cream every hour during the first few hours of freezing. This helps prevent large ice crystals from forming.
Step 5: Enjoy your Healthy Dessert!
Once frozen, let the ice cream sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before scooping. This will make it easier to serve.
Tips for Broccoli Ice Cream Success:
- Use good quality coconut milk: The fat content in full-fat coconut milk is crucial for creating a creamy texture.
- Don't skimp on the steaming: Make sure your broccoli is extremely tender. This is the key to a smooth and delicious ice cream.
- Adjust sweetness to taste: If you prefer a sweeter ice cream, add more maple syrup.
- Add-ins are welcome!: Experiment with adding other ingredients, such as cocoa powder for a chocolate version, or a sprinkle of cinnamon for a warm spice flavor.
Variations:
- Chocolate Broccoli Ice Cream: Add 2 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder to the blender.
- Mint Broccoli Ice Cream: Add a few drops of peppermint extract along with the vanilla extract.
- Citrus Broccoli Ice Cream: Increase the lemon juice to 1 tablespoon and add the zest of one lemon.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the specific ingredients used. Nutritional information is best calculated using a nutrition calculator with your exact ingredient measurements.
This broccoli ice cream is a delicious and healthy way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet. It’s a fantastic option for quick dinner ideas, a unique after-dinner treat, or a fun and unexpected dessert. Enjoy!