Are you ready to embark on a culinary adventure filled with vibrant purple hues and a uniquely delightful flavor? Then prepare yourself for the magic of homemade ube ice cream! This isn't your average ice cream; it's a taste of the Philippines, a creamy dream made with simple ingredients and a whole lot of love. This recipe is perfect for those seeking easy recipes, healthy meals (relatively!), and quick dinner alternatives—though it's more of a delightful dessert! Let's dive into this exciting homemade cooking experience.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup ube halaya (ube jam or paste) – you can find this in Asian grocery stores or make your own!
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
Get Started:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the milk, heavy cream, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the sugar dissolves completely and the mixture is warm. Do not boil.
Infuse the Ube Flavor:
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the ube halaya. Continue stirring until the halaya is fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth and evenly colored. This is where the magic happens, creating that beautiful purple hue and rich ube flavor.
Cool Down and Prepare:
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Let the mixture cool completely to room temperature. This is crucial to prevent ice crystals from forming in your ice cream. You can speed up the process by placing the saucepan in an ice bath.
Churn and Freeze:
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Once cooled, pour the mixture into your ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer's instructions. This usually takes about 20-30 minutes.
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Once churned, the ice cream will be soft-serve consistency. Transfer it to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2-3 hours to allow it to firm up completely. This step allows the ice cream to develop a smoother, richer texture.
Tips for Ube Ice Cream Success:
- Quality Ube Halaya: Using high-quality ube halaya will significantly impact the flavor and color of your ice cream. Don’t skimp on this crucial ingredient!
- Patience is Key: Allow the mixture to cool completely before churning. Rushing this step can result in icy ice cream.
- Freezing Time: The longer you freeze the ice cream, the firmer it will become. However, it's best to take it out a few minutes before serving to allow it to soften slightly.
Variations:
- Coconut Ube Ice Cream: Add ½ cup of coconut milk for a tropical twist.
- Ube Ice Cream with Toppings: Get creative with your toppings! Try toasted coconut flakes, chopped macadamia nuts, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce.
- Vegan Ube Ice Cream: Substitute the dairy milk and cream with plant-based alternatives like coconut milk and full-fat coconut cream. Adjust sweetness to taste.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the specific ingredients used, but a general estimate for a single serving (about ½ cup) would be approximately:
- Calories: 250-300
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 25-30g
- Protein: 3-5g
These are just estimates, and the nutritional content can change depending on the type of milk and cream you use, the amount of sugar, and the brand of ube halaya. For a more precise nutritional breakdown, use a nutrition calculator with your exact ingredients.
This delicious ube ice cream is a perfect treat for any occasion. The vibrant color and unique flavor will impress your friends and family. Enjoy the delicious result of your homemade cooking!