Refreshing Granita: A Perfect Palate Cleanser
When it comes to entertaining, I always look for ways to impress my guests. One of my favorite tricks is serving a refreshing granita as a palate cleanser between courses. It’s a simple yet elegant way to awaken their taste buds and prepare them for the next delight.
The Perfect Ingredients
To make this granita, you’ll need just a few ingredients. Start with 1 pound of seedless green grapes – you can’t have too many of these sweet little gems! Next, grab 1/2 cup of white dessert wine, such as Spanish Muscatel, Italian Moscato, or American Muscat. Don’t worry if you can’t find Muscatel; a sweet Riesling will do the trick. Finally, add 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice and 2 tablespoons of superfine sugar (or more to taste).
Purée, Strain, and Freeze
Now it’s time to get started! Place the grapes in a food processor and purée until smooth. Let the mixture stand for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Strain the grapes through a fine sieve into a bowl, pressing on the solids with the back of a large spoon and scraping the bottom of the sieve. Discard the solids and add the Muscatel, lemon juice, and sugar. Stir well to combine.
The Freezing Process
Cover the granita with aluminum foil and place it on a level shelf in the freezer. Freeze until ice crystals begin to form on the sides and the bottom of the bowl, about 30 minutes. Then, stir it with a fork and return it to the freezer. Keep stirring and mashing the granita as the ice crystals continue to form, about every 30 minutes or so, until all the liquid has been completely frozen. This should take about 3 hours.
The Final Touches
Once the granita is frozen, fluff and mash it one final time. Leave it in the freezer for another 20 minutes or so before serving. You can serve it as is, or get creative with your presentation. I love serving it in shot glasses as a palate cleanser with a cheese course.
Variations and Tips
Want to mix things up? Try using red grapes and red dessert wine for a unique twist. And don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavor combinations – the possibilities are endless! With its refreshing taste and elegant presentation, this granita is sure to be a hit at your next dinner party.
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