Dish

Granita di gelsi

Mulberry Granita

To make Granita di gelsi, you will need fresh mulberries, sugar, and water. The mulberries should be washed and then pureed in a blender or food processor. The puree is then sweetened with sugar to taste and poured into a shallow dish or pan. The dish is then frozen until solid, and the frozen mulberry juice is scraped into icy flakes using a fork or other utensil. The granita can be served immediately, or stored in the freezer for later use.

European cuisine› Mediterranean cuisine› Italian cuisine

Dessert› Frozen Dessert

Origins and history

Granita di gelsi is a traditional Italian dessert that has been enjoyed for centuries. It is believed to have originated in Sicily, where it was made with local mulberries and served as a refreshing treat during the hot summer months. Today, it is popular throughout Italy and can be found in many cafes and restaurants.

Dietary considerations

Granita di gelsi is suitable for most dietary needs, as it is naturally gluten-free and can be made with alternative sweeteners for those with sugar sensitivities. However, it does contain mulberries, so it may not be suitable for individuals with fruit allergies.

Variations

There are many variations of Granita di gelsi, including adding flavorings like lemon or mint to the mulberry puree before freezing. Some people also like to add chopped fresh fruit or berries to the granita for a more complex flavor.

Presentation and garnishing

Granita di gelsi should be presented in a shallow dish or glass, with the icy flakes piled high and garnished with a sprig of fresh mint or a dusting of powdered sugar.

Tips & Tricks

To make the best Granita di gelsi, be sure to use fresh, ripe mulberries and sweeten the puree to taste. The puree should be frozen in a shallow dish or pan to ensure that it freezes evenly and can be easily scraped into flakes. It is also important to scrape the granita with a fork or other utensil to create the light and fluffy texture that is characteristic of this dessert.

Side-dishes

Granita di gelsi is typically served on its own as a light and refreshing dessert, but it can also be paired with other Italian desserts like panna cotta or biscotti.

Drink pairings

Granita di gelsi pairs well with sweet wines like Moscato or Vin Santo, which can help balance out the tartness of the mulberries. It can also be served with a shot of limoncello or other fruit-flavored liqueur for a more adult twist.