Forget everything you thought you knew about ice cream. This isn't your grandma's scoop. Get ready for an explosion of textures and flavors with this surprisingly easy Chinese Fried Ice Cream recipe – a delightful dessert that's perfect for a quick treat or an impressive finale to any meal. This recipe offers a fun, delicious, and relatively healthy take on a classic, making it a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and quick dinner ideas.
Ingredients:
This recipe yields about 4 servings. Adjust as needed for your gathering.
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For the Ice Cream:
- 2 cups vanilla ice cream, slightly softened (use your favorite brand!)
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (almonds, pecans, or walnuts work well)
- 1 tablespoon chopped candied ginger (optional, but adds a delightful zing)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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For the Coating:
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Pinch of salt
- 1/2 cup milk or buttermilk (for a crispier coating, use buttermilk)
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Ice Cream Mixture:
In a medium bowl, gently combine the softened vanilla ice cream, chopped nuts, candied ginger (if using), and vanilla extract. Avoid overmixing to prevent melting. Form the mixture into 4 equal-sized balls. Freeze for at least 30 minutes to firm them up. This step is crucial for preventing the ice cream from melting during frying.
Step 2: Prepare the Coating:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Gradually whisk in the milk (or buttermilk) until you have a smooth batter. The batter should be thick, but still pourable.
Step 3: Bread the Ice Cream:
Carefully take one ice cream ball from the freezer. Quickly dip it into the batter, ensuring it's fully coated. Gently shake off any excess batter.
Step 4: Fry the Ice Cream:
Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. The oil is ready when a small drop of batter sizzles immediately. Carefully place the battered ice cream ball into the hot oil. Fry for about 1-2 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Don't overcrowd the pan; work in batches if necessary.
Step 5: Drain and Serve:
Remove the fried ice cream ball from the oil and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Repeat the process with the remaining ice cream balls. Serve immediately, garnished with a sprinkle of powdered sugar, a drizzle of chocolate sauce, or a scoop of whipped cream. This dish is best served immediately for optimal texture.
Tips for the Best Chinese Fried Ice Cream:
- Use slightly softened ice cream: This allows for easier shaping and prevents shattering during frying.
- Don't overcrowd the pan: This will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy ice cream.
- Work quickly: The ice cream will start to melt, so efficiency is key!
- Adjust the frying time: Depending on the size of your ice cream balls and the heat of your oil, the frying time might need slight adjustments.
Variations:
- Chocolate Lover's Delight: Use chocolate ice cream instead of vanilla and add chocolate chips to the ice cream mixture.
- Fruity Fun: Incorporate chopped fresh fruits like strawberries or blueberries into the ice cream mixture.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of chili powder to the batter for a hint of spice.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This is an estimate and can vary based on ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 400-500
- Fat: High
- Protein: Moderate
- Carbohydrates: Moderate
This Chinese Fried Ice Cream recipe is a fantastic addition to your collection of delicious dishes and best recipes. It's a fun and exciting dessert that's perfect for impressing friends and family, showcasing your homemade cooking skills, and enjoying a delightful, cool treat. Enjoy!