Stracciatella Gelato Recipe
Dive into the world of creamy and dreamy desserts with a classic Italian delight – Stracciatella Gelato. A perfect blend of velvety milk and cream is gracefully combined with ribbons of dark chocolate to create an experience that is as mesmerizing as the Italian countryside. Unlike its cousin, the ice cream, gelato boasts a more intense flavor with a smoother texture that will leave your taste buds singing in Italian! Ready to explore this rich and yet refreshingly simple dessert? Let’s scoop into the details!
Kitchen Equipment Required
- Ice Cream Maker
- Medium Saucepan
- Mixing Bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Fine Mesh Sieve
- Plastic or Metal Container for Freezing
Total estimated time: 4 hours (includes freezing time)
Ingredients
- 500 ml (2 cups) whole milk
- 250 ml (1 cup) heavy cream
- 150g (3/4 cup) granulated sugar
- 5g (1 tsp) vanilla extract
- 35g (2 tbsp) cornstarch
- Pinch of salt
- 100g (3.5 oz) dark chocolate, finely chopped
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Gelato Base
In a medium saucepan, combine 400 ml (1 2/3 cups) of whole milk, heavy cream, and 100g (1/2 cup) of granulated sugar. Heat the mixture over medium heat until it is hot but not boiling, then remove from heat.
Step 2: Thicken the Mixture
In a separate mixing bowl, whisk the remaining 100 ml (1/3 cup) of milk with the cornstarch until smooth. Return the saucepan to medium heat and slowly whisk in the cornstarch mixture. Stir continuously until the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes. The base should coat the back of a spoon.
Step 3: Add Flavors
Once thickened, remove from heat and strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve into a bowl to ensure a silky texture. Stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Allow the mixture to cool to room temperature before refrigerating for at least 2 hours, or until completely chilled.
Step 4: Churn the Gelato
Pour the chilled mixture into your ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions. As the gelato begins to thicken and just become creamy, prepare the chocolate.
Step 5: Create the Stracciatella
Melt the finely chopped dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl set over a pot of simmering water or in a microwave in 10-second bursts. Once the gelato has nearly finished churning, slowly drizzle the melted chocolate into the gelato in a steady stream. The chocolate will harden immediately on contact and form thin strands throughout the gelato.
Step 6: Freeze and Serve
Transfer the stracciatella gelato to a container, cover, and freeze for at least 1 hour to set. Once ready, serve the gelato in chilled bowls or cones for a refreshing treat.
Conclusion
Bravo! You’ve mastered the art of creating Stracciatella Gelato, a classic Italian treasure. Perfect for any occasion, this icy indulgence combines the lushness of the traditional gelato with an exciting chocolate twist that is sure to satisfy every palate. Whether enjoyed in a sun-dappled piazza or the comfort of your own home, each spoonful of this sumptuous treat will transport you straight to the heart of Italy.
Additional Information
- Consider sharing this recipe with friends and family to spread the joy and love for Italian culture through cuisine.
- Enjoy your gelato!
