Ricette di Sicilia
Cibo, cultura e tradizioni siciliane
Scursunera: Sicilian Jasmine Granita — A Refreshing and Unique Dessert
Scursunera, the traditional Sicilian jasmine granita, is a refreshing and unique summer dessert. Discover its history and unforgettable flavour!
🛒 Ingredients
- ✓ 200 g fresh jasmine petals
- ✓ 250 ml water
- ✓ 150 g sugar
- ✓ 1 cinnamon stick
- ✓ Juice of one lemon
- ✓ Ground cinnamon
📊 Nutritional Information
Scursunera is one of the most enchanting traditional desserts of Sicily — a fragrant jasmine granita that embodies Mediterranean aromas and history.
This refreshing treat, perfect for hot summer days, dates back to the Arab influence in Sicily, when the art of granita was introduced to the island.
Originally prepared with cinnamon and scorzonera (goatsbeard), the recipe evolved to use the intensely perfumed jasmine petals that define its modern flavour.
Popular throughout western Sicily, especially around Trapani, scursunera offers a truly unique sensory experience thanks to its unmistakable floral scent — ideal for anyone who loves authentic Sicilian flavours.
👨🍳 Preparation
- 1
Collect freshly opened jasmine petals.
- 2
Bring the water to a boil in a saucepan, then add the sugar and cinnamon stick. Stir until the sugar has dissolved.
- 3
Add the jasmine petals and let them infuse for 10 minutes, allowing the mixture to cool completely.
- 4
Strain the liquid through a fine-mesh strainer, gently pressing the petals.
- 5
Add the lemon juice to the strained liquid and mix well.
- 6
Pour the mixture into a shallow container and place it in the freezer.
- 7
Stir the granita every 30 minutes with a fork to break up the ice crystals.
- 8
Serve *scursunera* in glasses, finishing with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon.
💡 Tips and Variations
For the most intense flavour, use jasmine petals picked early in the morning when their fragrance is strongest.
You can also add a hint of vanilla for a more aromatic twist.
📦 Storage
- • Store the granita in an airtight container in the freezer.
- • Fluff with a fork before serving to restore its texture.
- • Let it soften slightly at room temperature before enjoying.
🍷 Pairing
Pair scursunera with a glass of Malvasia delle Lipari, a Sicilian sweet wine that enhances its floral notes.
Thank you for discovering scursunera with us. Try preparing this refreshing dessert at home and let yourself be captivated by the authentic flavours of Sicily. Enjoy!
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