| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 10 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 315 | 24g | 14g | 20g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 20g | 0g | 5g | 0.15g |
When I first encountered Blue Pea Ice Cream, it was love at first sight and taste. There’s something almost magical about the vibrant hue of the blue pea flowers translating into a creamy dessert. As a native New Yorker, I am constantly surrounded by innovation and diverse flavors. This ice cream feels like a discovery—a delightful surprise that captures both beauty and flavor in perfect fusion.
A Feast for the Eyes and Taste Buds
The first thing you’ll notice about Blue Pea Ice Cream is its striking blue color. Derived from dried blue pea flowers or blue pea flower powder, this natural dye not only makes the ice cream visually stunning but also adds subtle, earthy undertones to the flavor profile. Whether serving it to friends at a dinner party or enjoying a quiet evening with a loved one, this ice cream never fails to impress.
Health Benefits and Natural Ingredients
The blue pea flower, also known as butterfly pea, has long been celebrated in traditional medicine for its myriad health benefits. It’s rich in antioxidants, which help combat inflammation and support overall wellness. While this is still a decadent ice cream, knowing it has ingredients that can benefit your health adds an extra bit of satisfaction with each bite.
What I particularly appreciate about this recipe is its simplicity and reliance on natural ingredients. From heavy cream and whole milk to granulated sugar and a touch of vanilla, each component contributes to a creamy, flavorful base. The addition of egg yolks enriches the texture, making every spoonful a luxurious treat.
Perfect Pairings and Similar Dishes
Blue Pea Ice Cream stands excellently on its own but can also be paired with a variety of dishes. Consider serving it alongside classic vanilla cake or as an exotic complement to a fruit salad. For an extra layer of fusion, try it with a Thai mango sticky rice. The slight floral notes of the blue pea ice cream harmonize beautifully with tropical flavors.
If you’re a fan of unique ice cream creations like matcha or lavender, you’ll likely appreciate this recipe’s imaginative twist. Similar in its use of floral ingredients, blue pea ice cream brings a new, intriguing dimension to your homemade ice cream repertoire.
In the spirit of New York’s melting pot culture, Blue Pea Ice Cream is a dessert that invites you to explore, savor, and share. Whether you’re an adventurous eater or a health-conscious individual, this recipe offers something special for everyone.
What You’ll Need
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup dried blue pea flowers or 2 tsp blue pea flower powder
- Pinch of salt
- 4 large egg yolks
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Method
Step One
In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, granulated sugar, dried blue pea flowers (or blue pea flower powder), and a pinch of salt. Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir occasionally until the mixture just begins to simmer. Do not let it boil.
Step Two
Remove the saucepan from heat and let the mixture steep for about 30 minutes if using dried blue pea flowers (skip this steeping step if using blue pea flower powder). This allows the blue pea flowers to infuse their color and flavor into the cream mixture.
Step Three
While the mixture is steeping, prepare the egg yolks. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks until they are well combined and slightly thickened.
Step Four
After the steeping time is complete, slowly warm the mixture again until it is hot but not boiling. If using dried blue pea flowers, strain them out at this stage using a fine mesh sieve, or simply remove the pan from heat if using powder.
Step Five
Gradually add the hot cream mixture to the egg yolks, whisking constantly to temper the yolks. This step prevents the yolks from curdling. Pour the mixture back into the saucepan.
Step Six
Return the saucepan to the stovetop and cook over low heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula, until the custard thickens enough to coat the back of the spoon. This typically takes about 5-7 minutes. Be careful not to let the mixture boil.
Step Seven
Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Allow the custard to cool to room temperature, then transfer it to a refrigerator to chill completely for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Step Eight
Once the mixture is thoroughly chilled, pour it into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Transfer the churned ice cream to an airtight container and freeze until firm, about 4 hours or overnight.
Step Nine
Serve the Blue Pea Ice Cream in bowls or cones, and enjoy the unique color and flavor!
