Scented Geranium Sorbet
Scented Geranium Sorbet Recipe | England | Ingredients: Geranium, Sugar, Lemon Juice
Introduction
Scented Geranium Sorbet is a refreshing and unique dessert that combines the floral and citrusy flavors of scented geranium leaves with the tartness of lemon juice. This sorbet is perfect for a hot summer day or as a light and refreshing end to a meal.
History
Scented geraniums have been used in cooking for centuries, prized for their aromatic leaves that come in a variety of scents such as rose, lemon, and mint. This sorbet recipe takes advantage of the fragrant leaves of the scented geranium plant to create a delicious and aromatic frozen treat.
Ingredients
- 16 to 18 fresh scented geranium leaves (Mabel Grey or rose geranium are both good)
- 1 cup superfine sugar
- 0.25 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 3 cups cold water
How to prepare
- Place the leaves into a food processor or blender along with the sugar.
- Blend until the mixture reaches a smooth, green paste-like consistency.
- Add lemon juice to the mixture and blend for an additional 15 seconds.
- Pour water into the blender and blend until well combined.
- Strain the mixture through a fine sieve to remove any remaining leaf particles.
- Follow the instructions provided by the ice cream maker's manufacturer to freeze the mixture.
- For an extra lemony flavor, you can also include half a cup of lemon balm leaves along with the geranium leaves.
Variations
- Try using different scented geranium varieties such as rose or mint for a unique flavor twist.
- Add a splash of vodka or gin to the mixture before freezing for an adult version of this sorbet.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Be sure to use fresh scented geranium leaves for the best flavor in this sorbet.
- Straining the mixture after blending will ensure a smooth and creamy texture.
- Adjust the amount of sugar and lemon juice to suit your taste preferences.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this sorbet in chilled bowls or glasses for a refreshing and elegant presentation. Garnish with a sprig of fresh scented geranium leaves for a decorative touch.
Cooking Techniques
Blending the scented geranium leaves with sugar and lemon juice helps to extract their aromatic oils and flavors, resulting in a more intense and fragrant sorbet.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you can't find scented geranium leaves, you can use lemon balm or lemon verbena leaves as a substitute.
Make Ahead Tips
This sorbet can be made ahead of time and stored in the freezer for up to a week. Just be sure to let it soften slightly at room temperature before serving.
Presentation Ideas
Serve this sorbet in chilled martini glasses for a sophisticated presentation. Top with a sprinkle of lemon zest for an extra burst of citrus flavor.
Pairing Recommendations
Scented Geranium Sorbet pairs well with light and fruity desserts such as lemon bars or berry tarts. It also makes a refreshing palate cleanser between courses.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftover sorbet in an airtight container in the freezer. Let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before scooping and serving.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of Scented Geranium Sorbet contains approximately 120 calories.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of Scented Geranium Sorbet contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.
Fats
This sorbet is fat-free.
Proteins
There is no protein in this sorbet.
Vitamins and minerals
Scented geranium leaves are a good source of vitamins A and C.
Alergens
This recipe is free of common allergens such as nuts, dairy, and gluten.
Summary
Scented Geranium Sorbet is a low-calorie, fat-free dessert that is rich in vitamins A and C.
Summary
Scented Geranium Sorbet is a delightful and aromatic dessert that showcases the unique flavors of scented geranium leaves. This sorbet is a perfect way to enjoy the fresh and floral taste of summer in a cool and refreshing treat.
How did I get this recipe?
The memory of finding this recipe for the first time is still fresh in my mind. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Agnes who lived in a quaint cottage surrounded by a blooming garden. As soon as I stepped inside, the sweet scent of scented geraniums filled the air, transporting me to a place of tranquility and peace.
Agnes greeted me with a warm smile and a hug, and as we sat down at her kitchen table, she handed me a bowl of homemade sorbet that she had just made. The sorbet was unlike anything I had ever tasted before - it was light, refreshing, and had a subtle floral undertone that was simply enchanting.
I couldn't help but ask Agnes for the recipe, and with a twinkle in her eye, she began to tell me the story of how she had come to discover the magic of scented geranium sorbet.
"It all started many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in the countryside," Agnes began. "I used to spend hours exploring the fields and forests surrounding my home, always on the lookout for new and exciting ingredients to use in my cooking."
"One day, while I was out on a walk, I stumbled upon a patch of scented geraniums growing wild by the side of the road. Intrigued by their delicate fragrance, I plucked a few leaves and brought them home with me."
"I decided to experiment with the leaves and see if I could create something delicious with them. After some trial and error, I finally came up with the perfect recipe for scented geranium sorbet. The combination of the floral notes from the geraniums and the sweetness of the sugar created a harmonious blend that was truly divine."
Agnes handed me a piece of paper with the recipe written in her elegant handwriting, and I thanked her profusely for sharing her secret with me. As I left her cottage that day, I couldn't wait to try making the sorbet in my own kitchen.
When I got home, I gathered all the ingredients and followed Agnes' instructions to the letter. I steeped the scented geranium leaves in a simple syrup, let it cool, and then churned it in my ice cream maker until it was light and fluffy.
The moment I took my first bite of the sorbet, I was transported back to Agnes' cottage and the warm summer day when I first tasted this incredible dessert. The floral notes of the scented geraniums danced on my taste buds, and I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my kitchen for years to come.
Since that day, I have made scented geranium sorbet countless times, each batch bringing back memories of my dear friend Agnes and the magical moment when she first introduced me to this enchanting recipe. I have shared it with friends and family, spreading the joy and wonder of this unique dessert to all who have had the pleasure of tasting it.
As I sit here writing this story, the scent of scented geraniums lingers in the air, reminding me of the special bond that food can create between friends. I am grateful for the day I discovered this recipe and for the friendship that blossomed from that shared moment of culinary delight. And as I scoop myself a bowl of scented geranium sorbet, I am filled with a sense of contentment and joy, knowing that the magic of this recipe will continue to bring happiness and wonder to all who taste it.
Categories
| English Desserts | English Recipes | Geranium Recipes | Sorbet Recipes |