Lemon Ice. Mrs. H. T. Van Fleet. Recipe

Lemon ice is a refreshing and tangy frozen treat that has been enjoyed for generations. Its origins can be traced back to Mrs. H. T. Van Fleet, who created this delightful recipe. The recipe itself involves a few simple ingredients and a process that is similar to making ice cream. With a few easy steps, you can create a perfect lemon ice that is sure to impress your family and friends.

To start, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 quart of water
- 4 cups of sugar
- Juice of 6 lemons
- Juice of 2 oranges
- 6 egg whites

The first step is to create a syrup with the water and sugar. In a large saucepan, combine the water and sugar and bring it to a boil. Stir the mixture until the sugar is completely dissolved. Once the syrup has reached the boiling point, remove it from heat and allow it to cool.

Next, strain the syrup through a cloth to remove any impurities. This will result in a smooth and clear syrup base for your lemon ice. The straining process ensures that your final product will be free from any unwanted particles.

Once the syrup has been strained, it's time to add the citrus juices. Squeeze the juice from 6 lemons and 2 oranges, making sure to remove any seeds or pulp. Add the juice to the cooled syrup and mix well. The combination of lemon and orange juices adds depth and complexity to the flavor of the ice.

In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites until they form stiff peaks. This will create a light and airy texture in your lemon ice. Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the syrup and juice mixture. Ensure that the egg whites are fully incorporated, but be careful not to overmix as this can deflate the airiness.

Now it's time to freeze your lemon ice. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker or freezer-safe container. If you're using an ice cream maker, follow the manufacturer's instructions for freezing the mixture. If you don't have an ice cream maker, you can still achieve a delicious lemon ice by placing the mixture in a freezer-safe container and stirring it every 30 minutes until it reaches the desired consistency.

Stir the mixture constantly while it freezes to prevent ice crystals from forming and to ensure a smooth and creamy texture. The constant stirring distributes the cold evenly throughout the mixture and helps to incorporate air, resulting in a light and fluffy lemon ice.

Once your lemon ice is frozen to your liking, it is ready to be enjoyed! Scoop it into serving dishes or cones, and savor the refreshing burst of citrus flavors. Lemon ice is perfect for hot summer days, picnics, or as a palate cleanser after a heavy meal.

Fun fact: Lemon ice, also known as granita or sorbetto al limone, is a popular dessert in Italy. It is often served as a palate cleanser between courses or as a refreshing treat on a hot day. Variations of lemon ice can be found in many cuisines around the world, with slight variations in ingredients and preparation methods.

For a twist on the classic lemon ice recipe, you can incorporate different flavors or add a touch of herbs, such as mint or basil, to enhance the taste. You can also garnish your lemon ice with lemon zest or a sprig of fresh mint to make it visually appealing.

If you enjoyed making lemon ice, you might also be interested in trying other frozen desserts like strawberry sorbet, mango granita, or raspberry sherbet. These desserts offer a variety of fruity flavors and are equally refreshing and delicious.

So, go ahead and try your hand at making this tangy and delightful lemon ice. With its vibrant flavors and smooth texture, it's sure to become a favorite summertime treat for you and your loved ones.