Summer is the perfect season to enjoy refreshing drinks and delicious treats. Among the many summer delicacies, there is a simple and refreshing treat, especially on hot summer days: coffee granita. This delicious dessert is a real treat for the senses, a perfect combination of the intense flavor of coffee and the pleasantness of crushed ice.
In this article, we will explore the history of this delicious dessert, share a classic recipe for preparing it, and discover some ways to customize its flavor and make it even more special.
History of coffee granita
Coffee granita is an ancient Sicilian specialty whose name comes from the word “granire,” meaning, “to grain.” Its origins date back to the 16th century, when the island of Sicily, located in the center of the Mediterranean Sea, became an important crossroads for the trade of spices and exotic products. Coffee, a precious beverage brought from the East, soon became very popular among Sicilian aristocrats and nobles.
Coffee granita began to be prepared as a cooling drink, in which coffee was mixed with ice and sugar to create a delicious sorbet. Over time, the recipe evolved, and coffee granita became a specialty loved by all, accessible even to the people.
Coffee granite – The classic recipe
Making a coffee granita is surprisingly simple, but it does require some patience and attention. Here are the ingredients and process for making this summer treat:
Ingredients
- 200 ml of espresso coffee
- 100 g of sugar
- 200 ml water
- 1 lemon (optional, to give a hint of freshness)
Process
- Brew the coffee and let it cool completely
- In a saucepan, dissolve the sugar in the water over medium heat. Stir until the sugar has completely dissolved. This will create the sweet syrup that will impart smoothness to the granita
- Let the syrup cool to room temperature
- Once cold, add the coffee to your syrup and stir well. Taste and, if you wish, you can add a little lemon juice to give it a hint of freshness
- Pour the resulting mixture into a shallow rectangular container, preferably a metal one. Cover it with a lid or plastic wrap.
- Place the container in the freezer and let it freeze for about 30 to 40 minutes.
- After this time has elapsed, take a spoon and stir the slush vigorously to break up the ice crystals. Repeat this every 30-40 minutes for at least 4-5 times, until the slush has reached a consistency similar to wet snow and is completely frozen
- Your coffee granita is ready! Serve it in small cups or glasses and decorate with a dollop of whipped cream, a sliver of chocolate or a few coffee beans
Customizations and variations
The classic coffee granita recipe is a treat in itself, but exploring variations and customizations can be just as fascinating. Here are some ideas to make your coffee granita even more special:
● Amaretto: Add a touch of amaretto liqueur for a more refined flavor and unique aroma
● Chocolate: Add dark chocolate or bitter cocoa for a mouthwatering and intense experience
● Almonds: Add almond cream for a milder flavor and an even more velvety texture
● Coconut: Add coconut milk for a creamy, tropical touch
● Vanilla: Add vanilla extract for a more balanced and deep flavor
● Cream: Serve the granita with a generous dollop of whipped cream for an even more indulgent experience
Coffee granita is a true summer treat, an explosion of flavors and freshness that enchants the palate and refreshes the soul. Its rich and ancient history, combined with the simplicity of its preparation, makes this delicacy a must for all those who wish to enjoy summer with a touch of sweetness and tradition. Prepare it by following our classic recipe or experimenting with the proposed variations, and you will discover a dessert that will give you moments of genuine summer happiness. Enjoy it with your coffee granita!
