Salvadoran-style Crema Gelato

Ingredients

This Salvadoran adaptation of the Italian gelato incorporates the tropical flavors and ingredients commonly found in Salvadoran cuisine. It replaces the traditional Italian vanilla with Salvadoran vanilla, which has a unique and aromatic profile. Additionally, coconut milk is used instead of regular milk to infuse the gelato with a subtle tropical twist. We alse have the original recipe for Gelato alla crema, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (470ml) coconut milk 2 cups (470ml) coconut milk
• 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
• 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
• 4 large egg yolks 4 large egg yolks
• 1 tablespoon Salvadoran vanilla extract 1 tablespoon Salvadoran vanilla extract

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat: 24g (15g saturated)
• Carbohydrates: 25g (22g sugars)
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 0g
• Salt: 0.05g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a saucepan, combine the coconut milk and heavy cream over medium heat. Heat until it begins to simmer, then remove from heat.
2. 2.
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar and egg yolks until well combined.
3. 3.
   Slowly pour the hot coconut milk mixture into the egg yolk mixture, whisking constantly.
4. 4.
   Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon. This should take about 10-15 minutes.
5. 5.
   Remove from heat and stir in the Salvadoran vanilla extract.
6. 6.
   Allow the mixture to cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
7. 7.
   Once chilled, pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer's instructions.
8. 8.
   Transfer the churned gelato to a lidded container and freeze for an additional 2-3 hours to firm up.
9. 9.
   Serve the Salvadoran-style Crema Gelato in bowls or cones and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Coconut milk — Make sure to use full-fat coconut milk for a creamy texture. Shake the can well before measuring.
• Salvadoran vanilla extract — Look for high-quality Salvadoran vanilla extract to capture the authentic flavor of El Salvador.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra tropical touch, sprinkle toasted coconut flakes on top of the gelato before serving.
• If you don't have an ice cream maker, you can pour the mixture into a shallow dish and freeze it, stirring every 30 minutes until it reaches the desired consistency.
• Experiment with adding other Salvadoran flavors such as cinnamon or grated lime zest to customize the gelato to your liking.

Serving advice

Serve the Salvadoran-style Crema Gelato in chilled bowls or crispy waffle cones for a delightful dessert experience. Garnish with a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes for an extra tropical touch.

Presentation advice

For an elegant presentation, scoop the gelato into individual serving bowls or glasses. Drizzle a touch of caramel or chocolate sauce on top and garnish with a fresh mint leaf or a slice of tropical fruit.