Dish

Granita di mandorla

Almond Granita

To make Granita di mandorla, you will need almond milk, sugar, and water. The almond milk should be sweetened with sugar to taste and then poured into a shallow dish or pan. The dish is then frozen until solid, and the frozen almond milk 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 mandorla 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 almonds 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 mandorla 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 almonds, so it may not be suitable for individuals with nut allergies.

Variations

There are many variations of Granita di mandorla, including adding flavorings like vanilla or cinnamon to the almond milk before freezing. Some people also like to add chopped almonds or other nuts to the granita for a crunchy texture.

Presentation and garnishing

Granita di mandorla 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 cocoa powder.

Tips & Tricks

To make the best Granita di mandorla, be sure to use high-quality almond milk and sweeten it to taste. The almond milk 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 mandorla is typically served on its own as a light and refreshing dessert, but it can also be paired with other Italian desserts like cannoli or biscotti.

Drink pairings

Granita di mandorla pairs well with sweet wines like Moscato or Vin Santo, which can help balance out the nuttiness of the almond milk. It can also be served with a shot of amaretto or other almond-flavored liqueur for a more adult twist.