How to Make Thai Butterfly Pea Flower Ice Cream

If you're looking to delight your taste buds with a unique and visually stunning treat, Thai butterfly pea flower ice cream is a perfect choice. This vibrant blue ice cream not only stands out but also offers health benefits thanks to the butterfly pea flower, known for its antioxidants. Follow this simple recipe to create your own batch!

Ingredients

  • 1 cup of butterfly pea flower tea (about 2 tablespoons dried flowers)
  • 1 cup of coconut milk
  • 1 cup of heavy cream
  • 3/4 cup of sugar (adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt
  • Juice of 1 lime (optional, for a tangy flavor)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Butterfly Pea Flower Tea

In a small saucepan, bring 1 cup of water to a boil. Remove from heat, and add the dried butterfly pea flowers. Allow the flowers to steep for about 10-15 minutes until you achieve a rich blue color. Strain the tea into a bowl, discarding the flowers, and let it cool.

2. Mix the Base Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled butterfly pea flower tea, coconut milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Whisk the mixture until the sugar is completely dissolved. If you want to add a touch of tanginess, stir in the juice of one lime.

3. Churn the Ice Cream

Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This usually takes about 20-25 minutes until you reach a soft-serve consistency. If you don’t have an ice cream maker, you can pour the mixture into a shallow dish and place it in the freezer. Stir every 30 minutes until the ice cream is firm, which usually takes about 3-4 hours.

4. Freeze the Ice Cream

Once churned, transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 4 hours, or until solid. This will help enhance the texture.

5. Serve and Enjoy!

Once your Thai butterfly pea flower ice cream is fully frozen, scoop it into bowls or cones. You can garnish it with edible flowers, fresh berries, or a drizzle of honey for an extra touch. Enjoy your homemade, stunning ice cream!

Benefits of Butterfly Pea Flower

Not only does this ice cream look beautiful, but the butterfly pea flower also comes packed with health benefits. It is known to be rich in antioxidants, which can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation. Additionally, this flower is believed to promote healthy skin and hair, making it a nutritious addition to your dessert.

Conclusion

Making Thai butterfly pea flower ice cream at home is a delightful and rewarding culinary experience. With its unique flavor, vibrant color, and health benefits, it’s sure to be a hit at your next gathering or as a special treat for yourself. Give it a try and impress your friends and family with this exotic dessert!