| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 2 hrs (Freezing Time) | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 144 | 0.3g | 0.1g | 36.5g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 34.5g | 1.7g | 0.8g | 0.004g |
As a Louisiana native with French ancestry, I naturally gravitate towards recipes that embody the charm of southern comfort but render it in a global palette. A recipe that encapsulates this notion is the tantalizing Loquat Sorbet. This immediately takes me back to the languid afternoons of my childhood, lounging under the soft shade of the loquat tree in our backyard, a tiny oasis of peace in the effervescent city of New Orleans.
A Symphony of Flavours
Fresh loquat fruit forms the star of this recipe. The loquat, or ‘Japanese Plum‘, is a golden gem that lends the sorbet its lush tropical appeal. Balancing the sweetness of the fruit with a spritz of lemon juice adds the perfect tartness to the concoction.
People often ask me why there’s vodka in this recipe, and I say it’s optional but recommended. The vodka lowers the freezing point of the sorbet making it softer and more scoopable, just like the exquisite sorbets served in Parisian parlors.
This Loquat Sorbet recipe is a delightful summer treat that is strikingly similar to the famed Italian ‘Sorbetto’. Just like Sorbetto, the loquat sorbet is light, fresh, and irresistibly delicious!
A Question of Health
The loquat fruit, while being a pleasure to the senses, is also a powerhouse of health benefits. Packed with vitamins A and C, dietary fiber, and potassium, it strengthens the immune system, improves digestion, and helps manage blood pressure.
While the sugar content does make for a sweet treat, its impact can be moderated by controlling portion sizes. After all, moderation is the key to maintaining a balanced diet. On the flip side, this simple loquat sorbet recipe can be a healthier alternative to commercial ice creams laden with preservatives and artificial sweeteners.
Loquat sorbet brings a taste of the exotic to your table and is a flawless accompaniment to freshly baked goods. Try it alongside a warm tarte Tatin or a slice of classic New Orleans King Cake, and experience the wonderful interplay of tastes.
In summation, the loquat sorbet recipe is a celebration of love for fresh, natural ingredients presented in a refreshingly delightful manner. A true reminder of the creole culture’s appreciation for the ‘joie de vivre’.
What You’ll Need
- 2 cups of fresh loquat fruit, pitted and chopped
- 1 cup of granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup of water
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 tablespoon of vodka (optional)
Method
Step One
Start by preparing your fresh loquats. Wash them thoroughly, then pit and chop them until you have around 2 cups of fruit. Make sure the pieces are small enough to be easily processed.
Step Two
Take a small saucepan and combine 1 cup of granulated sugar with 1/2 cup of water. Place it on a medium flame and stir frequently until the sugar is completely dissolved. This will create a simple syrup.
Step Three
Once your syrup is ready, combine the chopped loquats, the simple syrup, and the juice of one lemon in a blender. Process this mixture until it is completely smooth. Going smooth is better as it creates a more consistent sorbet.
Step Four
Now take your blended mixture and pour it into an ice cream maker. Turn it on and let it churn for about 20-30 minutes, or until it achieves the consistency of sorbet.
Step Five
(Optional) Add 1 tablespoon of vodka to the sorbet during the last few minutes of churning. This step is optional and can be skipped if you’re making this sorbet for children or anyone who doesn’t consume alcohol. The purpose of adding the vodka is to prevent the sorbet from freezing too hard and to help it stay scoopable even after a night in the freezer.
Step Six
Transfer the prepared sorbet to an airtight container and place it in the freezer. Let it freeze for at least 3 hours, or until it’s completely firm.
Step Seven
Once the sorbet is fully frozen, it’s ready to be served. You can serve it in a bowl, or on a cone, and enjoy a refreshing summer treat.
