It was 2009 Summer Fair in Evanston,IL where I lived when I learned that this icy refresher is called Italian Ice in Italy of course. The sun was scorching and the weather was sultry that this caught my attention while walking down the street. Little did I know, it is the same exact "sherbet" that I used to eat when I was young in the Philippines but only in coconut juice and the exact "Sorbet" Americans are more familiar with.
It makes it so light and refreshing because it has no dairy in it. Only that it costs a bit more than what I am willing to spend for...$2 per scoop. Of course there was no turning back when you want something so bad for that time being. All I could do is enjoy it in a sweltering weather.
I realized how similar some of our food or drinks are with other nations. Only in different names. That day inspired me to make my own during summer instead of running to Jewel and spending $5 for a pint of Haagen Dazs Raspberry Sorbet. I knew I can make more than a pint for that price.
And so when I went back to the Philippines, a friend brought me some of my favorite fresh strawberries from Baguio, a city by the mountains up north. I knew I would not be able to nosh on them all so I thought of making my own Italian Ice just in strawberry flavor.
Like they would say in that TV commercial of Geico Insurance, it is so easy even a caveman can do it. You should try it and make use of the fresh fruits you have on hand or in season. Your kids will be amazed how quick it can be done.
Ingredients
- 2 Kilos Fresh Strawberries, washed
- 1 cup Sugar
- 2 tsp lemon juice
Directions
- 1Remove the sepals or tops of strawberries
- 2Toss all ingredients in a food processor and puree.
- 3Pour in a freezer proof container and freeze for 5 hours
- 4Check every 45 mins and stir the puree until set.
