| Prep: 30 mins | Cook: 20 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 105 | 0.1g | 0g | 27g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 21g | 3.7g | 0.7g | 0.01g |
Growing up in the heart of New York City, street food carousels offering mouth-watering delights was a staple in my daily life. Amid the hustle and bustle of the Big Apple, one dish that particularly stood out was the refreshing and subtly sweet Cactus Pear Sorbet. Inspired by this gem from city street vendors, I have recreated those memories in a recipe that encapsulates the perfect blend of sweet, tangy and fresh – irrevocably connecting me back to those city streets. This sorbet is both a tribute to NYC’s diverse and happening food scene, and my inclination towards refreshing, fruity delicacies. Trust me when I say, you’ll be swept off your feet by this alluring medley of taste and nostalgia.
The Health Benefits
What’s remarkable about this dessert is not just its exquisite flavour profile, but also its health implications. The star ingredient -cactus pear- hosts an impressive array of health benefits. Bursting with antioxidants, it’s believed to assist in the prevention of a wide range of chronic conditions, from heart disease to cancer. Plus, it’s packed with dietary fibre, supplementary to maintaining a healthy digestion. Unquestionably, this Cactus Pear Sorbet recipe can be a guilt-free indulgence. Read more about cactus pear benefits at Healthline.
Pairing and Serving Ideas
And let’s not forget about the versatility of this sorbet! Its unique, captivating taste profile makes it a perfect palate cleanser in multi-course meals. Consider serving it as a dessert after a hearty American-style pulled pork dinner, or a zesty Greek salad for a summer lunch. The Cactus Pear Sorbet pairs brilliantly with these dishes, offering a sweet and refreshing endnote to your meal.
If you’re in an experimental mood, you could even blend the sorbet with a dash of sparkling wine to create a delightful cocktail. With or without the vodka, this sorbet enlivens any culinary scene – just like a vibrant NYC street food fair.
This is more than just a recipe; it’s a ticket to a nostalgic culinary journey invoking the reverence of New York’s diversely flavoured city streets.
What You’ll Need
- 6 cactus pears
- 1 cup of white granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup of water
- 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon of vodka (optional)
Method
Step One
Begin by peeling the cactus pears. To do this, cut off both ends and make a shallow lengthwise incision. Peel off the skin carefully, disposing off the thorns. Be sure to wear gloves to avoid getting pricked.
Step Two
Once peeled, cut the pears into small pieces and place them into a blender or food processor. Blend until you have a smooth puree.
Step Three
Set up a sieve over a bowl and pour the pureed cactus pear into it. Use a spoon to press down and extract as much juice as possible. Dispose off the seeds and pulp left in the sieve.
Step Four
In a saucepan, combine the white granulated sugar and water. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar completely dissolves in the water and the mixture becomes a syrup.
Step Five
Remove the syrup from heat and allow it to cool. Once cooled, add the pure cactus pear juice, fresh lemon juice, and vodka (if using) into the syrup. Stir until well combined.
Step Six
Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and follow the manufacturer’s instructions to churn the sorbet until it achieves the desired consistency.
Step Seven
If you do not have an ice cream maker, pour the mixture into a shallow dish and place it in the freezer. Every half an hour for about 3 hours, stir the mixture to break up any ice crystals.
Step Eight
Once frozen to the desired consistency, serve your cactus pear sorbet in bowls or cones. Enjoy your refreshing treat!
