Ricette di Sicilia
Cibo, cultura e tradizioni siciliane
Lemon Gelo: Sicily’s Delightfully Refreshing Summer Dessert
Discover the recipe for lemon gelo, a fragrant and refreshing Sicilian treat that’s perfect for a light summer finale or a charming alternative to sorbet.
🛒 Ingredients
- ✓ 800 ml water
- ✓ 250 g caster sugar
- ✓ 200 ml lemon juice
- ✓ 90 g custard powder (wheat or corn starch)
📊 Nutritional Information
If you’re after a fresh and light pudding to serve up, lemon gelo is just the ticket. This citrus-scented Sicilian dessert is ideal to finish a fish lunch or to cool down on warm summer days. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you’ll create a silky cream bursting with the unmistakable sunshine flavour of Sicilian lemons.
👨🍳 Preparation
- 1
Squeeze the lemons and strain the juice into a saucepan along with the water.
- 2
Gradually whisk in the sifted custard powder to prevent lumps from forming.
- 3
Add the sugar and cook over a gentle heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon.
- 4
As soon as the mixture thickens and attains a glossy, creamy texture, remove it from the heat.
- 5
Pour the lemon gelo into small bowls or moulds and leave to cool at room temperature.
- 6
Transfer to the fridge and chill for at least 3 hours before serving.
💡 Tips and Variations
For a deeper lemony aroma, grate the zest of an unwaxed lemon into the mixture. To add an elegant finish, garnish with fresh mint leaves or candied lemon peel.
📦 Storage
- • Keep the lemon gelo covered in cling film in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- • Avoid freezing as this will spoil the smooth, delicate texture.
- • Always serve it well chilled to fully enjoy its refreshing qualities.
🍷 Pairing
Lemon gelo pairs beautifully with a glass of Marsala Fine Oro Secco, a Sicilian wine boasting an intense aroma and semi-dry palate, best served chilled between 8 and 10°C.
Give this delightful lemon gelo a go at home—its bright, crisp flavours are a brilliant way to round off any summer meal. Whether you’re entertaining friends or enjoying a quiet afternoon, this classic Sicilian pudding is sure to impress and refresh. Do share it around and spread a little sunshine from Sicily onto your table!
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