| Prep: 30 mins | Cook: 45 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 550 | 38g | 22g | 65g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 50g | 3g | 6g | 0.05g |
There’s something simply magical about the Annona Squamosas Ice Cream. It’s a delightful treat that holds a special place in my heart, and often catches my dinner guests by surprise with its unique flavor. Originating from tropical regions, the Annona squamosas, also known as the Sugar apple, transports me back to Nigeria where this delicate fruit is savored during warm summer days. Paired with a quintessentially Southern comfort food like ice cream, this recipe beautifully showcases what I love most about Afro-Southern fusion.
A Taste of Culture
This recipe speaks to my love for cross-cultural culinary exploration. Its creamy texture warmly embraces the Southern tradition of homemade ice cream, while its heart—the Annona squamosas pulp—beats with the vibrant rhythm of West Africa. In a bowl of this delectable ice cream, you’ll taste the deep richness of the cream, sweetness of sugar, and the light touch of vanilla, as well as the tropical thrill of the Annona squamosas. It’s like Afrobeat for your palate. If you’ve ever enjoyed a traditional African fruit sorbet or an American-style vanilla ice cream, you’ll see how this Annona Squamosas Ice Cream brings those two worlds together in a delicious harmony.
Healthful Indulgence
Not only is this ice cream wonderfully flavorful, but it also brings some health benefits to the table. Annona squamosas is rich in antioxidants, Vitamin C, and dietary fiber, bringing a wholesome twist to an indulgent treat. Plus, this tropical fruit is believed to possess anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties (source). While I won’t claim this ice cream will do miracles for your health, it’s always comforting to know there’s a bit of goodness in every spoonful!
Companion Flavors
This ice cream pairs exceptionally well with warm desserts, providing cool and creamy relief to balance out the heat. Consider serving it with your favorite peach cobbler, warm chocolate brownies, or spicy ginger cookies. Moreover, the delicate fruit flavor also pairs beautifully with savory dishes, making it a refreshing palate cleanser after a rich main course, like hearty gumbo or a spicy jambalaya.
There is nothing quite like our Annona Squamosas Ice Cream, its fusion of flavors masterfully paint a picture of my culinary journey. Each creamy spoonful reminds me of the love I have for bringing these two food cultures together. Whether you’re familiar with the taste of Annona squamosas or not, you’re sure to enjoy this ice cream as a tropically tantalizing treat.
What You’ll Need
- 2 cups of freshly extracted Annona squamosas (Sugar apple) pulp
- 1 liter of heavy cream
- 1 1/2 cups of granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
- 1/3 cup of milk
- 5 egg yolks
- Pinch of salt
Method
Step One
Begin by cutting the Annona squamosas (Sugar apple) in half. Using a spoon, remove the flesh carefully to avoid the seeds and strain to obtain the pulp. Collect 2 cups of this freshly extracted pulp and set aside.
Step Two
In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the heavy cream, milk, and one cup of sugar. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has fully dissolved.
Step Three
In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and remaining 1/2 cup sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. Once the sugar in the cream mixture is completely dissolved, slowly add the warmed cream mixture into the yolks while whisking continually.
Step Four
Now, pour the entire mixture back into the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring continuously. This is to avoid curdling the egg yolks. When the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon, it is ready.
Step Five
Remove the cream mixture from heat and stir in the extracted Annona squamosas pulp, vanilla extract, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Mix well to combine.
Step Six
Transfer this mixture into an ice cream maker and churn as per the manufacturer’s instructions. If you do not have an ice cream maker, you can pour the mix into a container and put it in the freezer. Make sure to stir the mixture every hour for the first 4 hours to prevent ice crystal formation.
Step Seven
Once set, your Annona Squamosas Ice Cream is ready to serve. Enjoy it as is, or garnish with slices of sugar apple for additional flavor.
