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Delicious Journey

Fennel Ice Cream with Vanilla Oil a delightful twist on tradition

Let's take a journey through the art of crafting a delectable dessert that dances on the palate with a whisper of anise - Fennel Ice Cream with Vanilla Oil. Imagine your taste buds awakening to the subtle licorice hint of fennel paired with the aromatic essence of vanilla, a duo meant to transcend taste and comfort the soul.

In every culture, there are dishes that tell a story, that carry the essence of the land and the signature of time. Fennel, with its roots firmly planted in Mediterranean culinary history, whispers tales of ancient Greece where it was revered for its health properties, and of Italy where it colors the landscape of many traditional recipes.

Bringing fennel into ice cream might seem like a bold move, but culinary innovation often begins with a step outside the familiar. Incorporating spices into sweet dishes isn't new, but it's a trend that's growing, allowing us to reimagine what dessert can be. And what's more comforting than a scoop of creamy, homemade ice cream? Mixing the old with the new, we elevate the experience from mere eating to a meaningful gastronomic event.

But why stop at flavor alone? Let's talk about the making of the dish itself. The process of toasting fennel seeds, steeping them into rich cream, whisking egg yolks, and the magical churning that thickens the concoction into something spectacular, is quite the sensory adventure. The scent that fills the kitchen is part of the warmth that cooking brings to the heart and home. And when you drizzle the vibrant concoction with vanilla-infused olive oil, it's like drizzling the last stroke on a masterpiece.

There's an undeniable joy in sharing. Sharing the process, the flavors, the surprises of each bite as the sharpness of fennel seeds mellow into the sweetness of cream, all these elements come together to create moments we tuck away in our memory. Each serving is not just a dessert; it's an ode to the time-honored tradition of coming together, breaking bread, and sharing stories.

So, when you scoop this Fennel Ice Cream onto a plate, drizzled with a subtle, fragrant oil, you're not just serving a dish. You're indulging in the embodiment of history, culture, innovation, and community. After all, isn't that what good food is all about? Bringing us together, one scoop at a time.

"Who knew fennel could make a cool treat? The recipe was easy to follow, and the ice cream turned out creamy with a unique taste. Vanilla oil added a nice touch. Recommend for adventurous palates!"

Lukas
,
Austria

Ingredients

Servings
2
  • 2 tbsp Fennel Seeds
  • 2 cup Heavy Cream
  • 2 cup Whole Milk
  • 2 cup Sugar
  • 8 Egg Yolks
  • Salt, to taste
  • 2 tsp Vanilla Extract
  • 2 tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil
  • 2 Vanilla Pod

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Instructions

  • Step 1
  • Toast the fennel seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat until fragrant, about 2-3 minutes, shaking the pan occasionally to prevent burning. Crushing the seeds slightly after toasting will release their oils and enhance the flavor.
  • Chef's Tip
    Avoid burning the seeds as it will introduce a bitter flavor. Toast just until fragrant.
  • Step 2
  • In a saucepan, heat the heavy cream, whole milk, toasted fennel seeds, and half the sugar over medium heat. Bring the mixture barely to a simmer, then remove from heat and let it steep for 15 minutes to infuse the fennel flavor.
  • Step 3
  • In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and the remaining sugar until the mixture is pale and thick.
  • Step 4
  • Gradually pour the warm cream mixture into the yolk mixture, whisking constantly to temper the eggs and prevent curdling.
  • Step 5
  • Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture is thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.
  • Step 6
  • Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl to remove the fennel seeds and any solidified egg bits. Stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Chill the mixture thoroughly in the refrigerator, about 30 minutes.
  • Chef's Tip
    Chill the mixture quickly by placing the bowl in an ice bath to improve the texture of the ice cream when churned.
  • Step 7
  • Pour the chilled mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer's instructions until it reaches a soft-serve consistency.
  • Step 8
  • While the ice cream is churning, split the vanilla pod and scrape out the seeds. Blend the seeds with extra virgin olive oil to create the vanilla oil.
  • Chef's Tip
    Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil to complement the vanilla's fragrance without overwhelming it.
  • Step 9
  • Once the ice cream is done, transfer to a container and freeze until firm, if desired.
  • Step 10
  • Serve the ice cream drizzled with vanilla oil and garnish with small fennel fronds for a professional touch in plating. The contrasting colors and aromas will enhance the overall sensory experience of the dish.
  • Chef's Tip
    Garnish just before serving to maintain the fresh appearance and aroma of the fennel fronds.
Bon appétit!

Share your thoughts!

We'd love to hear from you! Email us your questions, feedback, or just tell us about your experience with this recipe. Your input is incredibly valuable and helps us craft even more delicious recipes for you to enjoy!
Get in Touch!

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