| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 20 mins | Difficulty: Moderate | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 307 | 22g | 13g | 21g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 18g | 1g | 4g | 0.23g |
Every time I whip up a batch of Durian Ice Cream, I’m transported back to my first enchanting encounter with this mystical fruit. The recipe itself is simple yet magical, packing a punch of tropical delight that has the power to turn skeptics into fervent durian devotees. Durian Ice Cream triumphs in the art of combining the rich, creamy base with the durian’s unique and distinctive flavor, creating a dessert that feels both indulgent and refreshing.
The Allure of Durian
Known as the “King of Fruits” in many Southeast Asian countries, durian is both revered and controversial. Its rich, custard-like flesh can polarize taste buds, but when blended into ice cream, its strong aroma mellows, leaving a creamy, luscious flavor that is simply unforgettable. I adore how it melds seamlessly into the heavy cream and egg yolks, creating a mouthfeel that’s both luxurious and comforting. This is a recipe that speaks to my Southern roots while embracing the exotic, and that’s why it’s so close to my heart.
Health Benefits You’ll Love
Durian is not just about bold flavor; it also boasts a wealth of health benefits. Packed with essential vitamins, particularly Vitamin C and B-Complex, it’s great for boosting immunity and energy levels. Additionally, durian is rich in dietary fiber, which aids in digestion—a plus when you’re indulging in a creamy dessert! The combination of heavy cream and milk offers a good dose of calcium, essential for bone health.
If you’re already a fan of ice creams like vanilla bean or butter pecan, you’ll find that Durian Ice Cream offers a similar creamy richness but with an exotic twist. It’s the perfect dessert to follow up a hearty meal, such as fried chicken or shrimp and grits, providing a delightful contrast to savory dishes.
For those who are new to durian, I always recommend trying it in ice cream form first. It’s a great way to introduce its flavor without being overwhelmed, and who can resist ice cream? If you’re intrigued by this tropical delight, you might also enjoy other fruit-based treats like Mango Sorbet or a Banana Foster.
In essence, Durian Ice Cream is a symphony of textures and flavors that come together in perfect harmony. It’s a celebration of my culinary journey, combining my love for traditional desserts with adventurous new flavors. Whether you’re a durian aficionado or a curious newbie, this is one recipe you’ll return to again and again.
What You’ll Need
- 2 cups durian flesh (about 2 medium durians)
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 large egg yolks
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Method
Step One
In a blender or food processor, puree the durian flesh until smooth. Set aside.
Step Two
In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar. Place over medium heat and stir until the sugar has fully dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
Step Three
In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks until they are light and frothy. Slowly pour about 1 cup of the hot cream mixture into the egg yolks, whisking constantly to temper the eggs.
Step Four
Pour the egg yolk mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining hot cream. Cook over medium-low heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon or heatproof spatula, until the mixture thickens and coats the back of the spoon. Do not let it boil.
Step Five
Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the pureed durian, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until well combined.
Step Six
Pour the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl to remove any lumps. Allow it to cool to room temperature, then cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Step Seven
Churn the chilled mixture in an ice cream maker according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours before serving. Enjoy!
