Thursday, May 15, 2008

Pistachio Gelato

Pistachio gelato is the benchmark by which many gelaterie are judged. You can tell at a glance if an artificial base has been used, just by the color. If the gelato maker is using real pistachio nuts, the color will be an almost drab green. If the bin flashes a neon green, keep walking!

1 C (6 oz) shelled pistachios (12 0z in the shell)
3 C whole milk
¾ C sugar

In a food processor or coffee grinder, grind the pistachio to a fine powder, reserving a few whole ones for garnish.

In a medium saucepan, combine the milk and sugar. Cook over medium heat, stirring until the sugar is dissolved, and bubbles form around the edges of the pan. Remove from heat, add the pistachios, cool, cover, and refrigerated overnight.

Strain the milk mixture through a fine-meshed sieve, pressing on the nuts with the back of a large spoon to get as much liquid from the nuts as possible. Transfer to an ice cream maker and freeze according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Makes 1 quart; serves 4

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