Barbados Cherry Ice

Barbados Cherry Ice Recipe - Vegan Food from North America

Region / culture: Barbados, North America | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 0 minutes | Servings: 4 |

Vegan diet

Introduction

Barbados Cherry Ice is a refreshing and nutritious frozen treat that captures the essence of tropical flavors in every scoop. Made with the luscious Barbados cherries, known for their vibrant color and exceptional vitamin content, this recipe is a delightful way to cool down on a hot day while indulging in the natural sweetness of one of the Caribbean's most cherished fruits.

History

The Barbados cherry, also known as Acerola, has been a staple in Caribbean diets for centuries, valued both for its taste and nutritional benefits. The recipe for Barbados Cherry Ice is a modern take on traditional methods of preserving fruit by freezing, a technique that has evolved with the advent of refrigeration technology. This recipe pays homage to the island's culinary heritage, transforming the humble cherry into a sophisticated, palate-pleasing dessert.

Ingredients

3 lb (1.36 kg) of cherries
4 oz (113 g) of water
sugar, white or brown only, to taste
3 tbsp of apple juice, optional

How to prepare

Squeeze the cherries to extract the seeds, resulting in approximately 2 pt (946 ml) of pulp and juice.
Combine the cherry pulp and juice with water and apple juice (if desired), sweeten according to taste, and freeze.
Serve the frozen mixture cold with additional fruits. Pour or scoop the contents into a beer mug or a highball glass filled with ice cubes.

Variations

For a twist on the traditional recipe, consider adding a splash of rum or coconut milk for a more decadent version. Alternatively, mix in other tropical fruits such as pineapple or mango for added complexity and flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure the best flavor and texture for your Barbados Cherry Ice, use ripe cherries that are deep red in color. The ripeness of the cherries will significantly impact the sweetness and overall taste of the dessert. Additionally, when extracting the juice and pulp from the cherries, use a fine mesh strainer to remove any unwanted seeds and pulp fibers, ensuring a smooth final product.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Barbados Cherry Ice in chilled glasses or bowls, garnished with fresh mint leaves or a slice of lime for an extra touch of elegance and flavor. This dessert is perfect as a palate cleanser between courses or as a light finish to a summer meal.

Cooking Techniques

The key technique in preparing Barbados Cherry Ice is the proper extraction and straining of the cherry juice and pulp, ensuring a smooth texture. Freezing the mixture slowly while occasionally stirring can help prevent the formation of large ice crystals, resulting in a creamier consistency.

Ingredient Substitutions

If Barbados cherries are not available, Acerola cherries or even tart cherries can be used as substitutes, though the flavor profile may slightly change. For a sugar-free version, consider using a natural sweetener like honey or agave syrup in place of sugar.

Make Ahead Tips

Barbados Cherry Ice can be made several days in advance and stored in the freezer until ready to serve. For the best texture, remove from the freezer 10-15 minutes before serving to allow it to soften slightly.

Presentation Ideas

For an impressive presentation, serve the Barbados Cherry Ice in hollowed-out fruit bowls, such as pineapple or coconut shells, and garnish with tropical flowers for a truly Caribbean feel.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Barbados Cherry Ice with light pastries or simple cakes for a balanced dessert course. Its refreshing qualities also make it an excellent accompaniment to spicy or rich dishes, providing a cooling contrast.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Barbados Cherry Ice in an airtight container in the freezer for up to one month. There is no need to reheat this dessert, but let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften before serving if it becomes too hard.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A serving of Barbados Cherry Ice contains approximately 100-150 calories, depending on the amount of added sugar. This makes it a relatively low-calorie option for a dessert, especially when compared to other frozen treats.

Carbohydrates

A serving of Barbados Cherry Ice primarily provides carbohydrates, with the majority coming from natural sugars present in the cherries and any added sugar. The exact carbohydrate content will vary depending on the amount of added sugar, but a typical serving without added sugar contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Barbados Cherry Ice is virtually fat-free, making it an excellent choice for those monitoring their fat intake. The natural ingredients used in this recipe do not contain significant amounts of fats, ensuring a light and guilt-free dessert option.

Proteins

This dessert is not a significant source of protein, containing less than 1 gram per serving. The primary nutritional value of Barbados Cherry Ice lies in its vitamin content and refreshing qualities rather than its protein content.

Vitamins and minerals

Barbados cherries are renowned for their high vitamin C content, with one serving of Barbados Cherry Ice providing a substantial portion of the recommended daily intake. Additionally, this dessert contains smaller amounts of vitamins A and B, along with minerals such as magnesium, potassium, and calcium, contributing to its overall nutritional profile.

Alergens

This recipe is free from common allergens such as nuts, dairy, gluten, and eggs, making it suitable for individuals with various dietary restrictions. However, as always, ensure that all ingredients used are free from cross-contamination if allergens are a concern.

Summary

Barbados Cherry Ice is a low-fat, low-calorie dessert rich in vitamins and minerals, particularly vitamin C. It offers a sweet and refreshing taste with minimal allergens, making it a healthy and inclusive option for dessert lovers.

Summary

Barbados Cherry Ice is a delightful, nutritious dessert that brings a taste of the Caribbean to your table. With its rich vitamin content and refreshing flavor, it's a perfect treat for hot summer days or whenever you crave something sweet yet healthy. This versatile recipe can be adapted to suit various tastes and dietary needs, making it a must-try for anyone looking to explore the flavors of Barbados.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the joy I felt when I first stumbled upon this recipe for Barbados Cherry Ice. It was a hot summer afternoon, and I had been visiting a small farmer's market in town. As I strolled through the rows of vibrant fruits and vegetables, my eyes landed on a display of bright red Barbados cherries. They were plump and glistening in the sunlight, and I couldn't resist buying a bag.

As I made my way home, I thought about what I could make with these delicious cherries. I had never cooked with them before, but I was eager to experiment. When I got home, I started scouring through my collection of cookbooks and recipe cards, hoping to find some inspiration.

After a bit of searching, I finally came across a recipe for Barbados Cherry Ice in an old cookbook that I had inherited from my mother. The recipe was simple and straightforward, calling for just a few ingredients – fresh cherries, sugar, and lemon juice. I was intrigued and decided to give it a try.

I started by washing and pitting the cherries, then simmering them in a pot with some sugar and lemon juice. The aroma that filled my kitchen was heavenly – sweet and tangy, with a hint of floral notes from the cherries. As the mixture cooked down, I could see the cherries breaking down and releasing their juices, creating a vibrant red syrup.

Once the mixture had thickened, I removed it from the heat and let it cool before transferring it to the freezer to chill. I couldn't wait to taste the final product. After a few hours, I took the mixture out of the freezer and scooped it into bowls. The Barbados Cherry Ice was a beautiful shade of deep red, with a luscious texture that was both creamy and refreshing.

I took a bite and was immediately transported to a tropical paradise. The flavor of the cherries was intense and bright, with a perfect balance of sweetness and acidity. The ice was a perfect treat for a hot summer day, and I couldn't believe how easy it was to make.

I shared the Barbados Cherry Ice with my family, and they all raved about how delicious it was. My grandchildren begged me to make it again, and I happily obliged. It quickly became a favorite dessert in our household, and I found myself making it often throughout the summer.

As I continued to make the Barbados Cherry Ice, I started to experiment with different variations. I added a splash of rum for a boozy kick, or a sprinkle of cinnamon for a warming spice. I even tried mixing in other fruits, like mango or pineapple, to create new and exciting flavors.

Each batch of Barbados Cherry Ice was a joy to make, and I loved sharing it with my loved ones. The recipe became a staple in my collection, a cherished reminder of that hot summer day when I first discovered the magic of Barbados cherries.

Now, whenever I see those bright red cherries at the farmer's market, I can't help but smile. They remind me of the joy and excitement I felt when I first stumbled upon this recipe, and how it has since become a beloved tradition in my family. The Barbados Cherry Ice will always hold a special place in my heart, a taste of summer that brings happiness and memories with every bite.