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Sicilian Jasmine Granita: A Taste of Summer Tradition

Sicilian Jasmine Granita: A Taste of Summer Tradition

Discover the refreshing delight of Sicilian Jasmine Granita: A Taste of Summer Tradition, perfect for hot days and bursting with flavor!

Author: Laura Lombardo • Published on: August 30, 2023
Categories: Desserts
Tags: water cinnamon trapani sugar
⏱️
Prep Time
15 minutes
🔥
Cook Time
0 minutes
👥
Servings
4 people
📊
Difficulty
Easy
💰 Moderate
🗓️ Summer
⭐ 4.7/5

🛒 Ingredients

  • ✓ 200 g fresh jasmine petals
  • ✓ 250 ml water
  • ✓ 150 g sugar
  • ✓ 1 cinnamon stick
  • ✓ Juice of 1 lemon
  • ✓ Ground cinnamon

📊 Nutritional Information

Calories
80 kcal
Carbohydrates
20 g
Sugars
18 g

Jasmine Granita, known as scursunera, is a traditional Sicilian dessert that perfectly captures the essence of summer. 
With its roots tracing back to the Arab influence in Sicily, this refreshing treat was initially concocted to combat the summer heat. 
The original recipe incorporated barba di becco, a plant with a slight bitterness, which was later replaced by the fragrant jasmine petals we use today. 
This granita is a true delight with its aromatic blend of jasmine and cinnamon, making it a must-try in the warmer months, especially in the Trapani region where it is most revered. 
Imagine the cooling sensation of a spoonful of jasmine granita on a hot summer day, its floral fragrance mingling with the sweet, spicy undertones of cinnamon, creating an experience that is both refreshing and evocative.

👨‍🍳 Preparation

  1. 1

    Gather fresh and slightly bloomed jasmine petals, ensuring they are the most fragrant and freshly picked.

  2. 2

    In a saucepan, bring the water to a boil and add sugar and the cinnamon stick, stirring until the sugar dissolves completely.

  3. 3

    Add the jasmine petals to the sugared water along with the cinnamon stick and let it infuse for about 10 minutes. Allow the water to cool completely.

  4. 4

    Strain the liquid through a fine-mesh sieve, pressing gently on the jasmine petals to extract their aroma.

  5. 5

    Mix the lemon juice into the filtered liquid to balance the flavours.

  6. 6

    Pour the mixture into a shallow container and place it in the freezer.

  7. 7

    Every 30 minutes, stir the granita with a fork to break up the ice crystals and achieve a snow-like consistency.

  8. 8

    Serve the Jasmine Granita in glasses, garnishing with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon.

💡 Tips and Variations

For a variation, try adding a hint of vanilla extract to enhance the floral notes. You can also experiment with different citrus fruits like lime or orange for a unique twist.

📦 Storage

  • • Always use fresh and fragrant jasmine petals for the best flavour.
  • • Ensure the liquid has cooled completely before freezing to preserve the jasmine's aroma.
  • • Store leftover granita in an airtight container in the freezer, allowing it to soften slightly at room temperature before serving.

🍷 Pairing

Pair Jasmine Granita with a glass of Malvasia delle Lipari, a sweet Sicilian wine with notes of fresh fruit and flowers, served at 8-10°C. This enhances the floral and fresh characteristics of the granita, creating a delightful contrast.

Thank you for exploring the refreshing world of Jasmine Granita. This Sicilian delicacy is a testament to the island's rich culinary heritage and offers a perfect escape to the Mediterranean. We hope you enjoy making and savouring this delicious treat. Feel free to share your experience and thoughts!

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