Ice Cream Made By Beating With Paddle Recipe

The history of ice cream is a fascinating one, with various methods of preparation being used throughout the centuries. One such method, known as "Ice Cream Made By Beating With Paddle," is a recipe that Mary received from her friend in Philadelphia. This recipe was reportedly so delicious that Mary never used any other recipe after trying it.

To make this delightful ice cream, the first step is to create a custard base. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together 6 eggs until they become light and fluffy. Gradually add 3 cups of sugar to the beaten eggs, and continue to whisk until well combined. In a separate saucepan, scald 1 quart of milk until it is hot but not boiling. Slowly pour the hot milk over the beaten eggs and sugar, whisking continuously.

To prevent curdling, a small pinch of soda can be added to the custard mixture. Once the custard is thoroughly mixed, pour it into a double boiler and cook over medium heat for approximately ten minutes, or until the mixture becomes thick and creamy. Be sure to stir constantly during this process to prevent the custard from sticking or burning.

Next, remove the custard from heat and allow it to cool completely. Once cooled, stir in three cups of sweet, cold cream into the custard base. The cream can be flavored with either vanilla or almond extract, depending on your preference. Beat the custard and cream mixture together for about five minutes to achieve a smooth consistency.

Now it's time to prepare the ice cream freezer. Pack the freezer with pounded ice and coarse salt, creating layers to ensure optimal freezing. Cover the freezer with the ice and salt, and place a heavy piece of old carpet or burlap over the top to exclude any air.

Allow the ice cream to stand in the freezer for one hour. After an hour passes, carefully open the can containing the cream, making sure no salt enters the can. With a long, thin-handled knife, scrape down the frozen custard from the sides of the freezer. Then, using a thin wooden paddle, beat the custard hard and fast for about five minutes. This beating process helps to make the ice cream fine and smooth in texture.

At this point, you can add any desired fruit to the ice cream. It is recommended to mix the fruit in before covering the cream and beating it further. For example, Aunt Sarah often made peach ice cream when peaches were in season. She would peel and pit fine ripe peaches, then mash them until smooth. Two small cups of sugar were added to a pint of mashed peaches, and the mixture was left to stand for an hour before being added to the beaten cream.

After the fruit has been incorporated, cover the ice cream and continue to freeze it. Aunt Sarah would drain off part of the water in the outer vessel, pack more ice and salt around the can in the freezer, and place a weight on top to hold it down. The freezer would then be covered tightly with a piece of old carpet to exclude any air. The ice cream should be left to stand for about three to four hours, allowing it to freeze completely.

One interesting fact about this recipe is that the beating process is the only labor required. Unlike other ice cream recipes that involve cranking or using a dasher, this method relies solely on beating with a paddle. The result is a deliciously smooth and creamy ice cream that is truly worth the effort.

In conclusion, Ice Cream Made By Beating With Paddle is a delightful recipe that has been enjoyed by many throughout the years. Its origins from Philadelphia and the personal experiences of Mary and Aunt Sarah add to its charm and appeal. Whether you choose to flavor it with vanilla, almond, or incorporate different fruits, this recipe promises a delectable homemade ice cream experience.

Similar recipes to consider are "Philadelphia-style" ice cream recipes, which also do not require eggs and are made without turning a crank or using a dasher. These recipes typically involve combining fresh cream, sugar, and desired flavors before churning the mixture in an ice cream maker. The resulting ice cream is smooth and creamy, similar to the Ice Cream Made By Beating With Paddle.

If you enjoy experimenting with different flavors, you might also be interested in trying gelato, a traditional Italian ice cream made with milk instead of cream. Gelato tends to have a denser texture and a more intense flavor, making it a delightful alternative to regular ice cream.

In conclusion, there are countless ways to make delicious ice cream at home. Whether you prefer the traditional method of beating with a paddle or opt for more modern techniques, the joy of homemade ice cream is undeniable. So gather your ingredients, unleash your creativity, and enjoy the sweet reward of a frozen treat made with love.