A simple blend of milk, cream, sugar & cardamom pods produced such a lovely flavor.
There are no step by step photos for this one since it was so easy...and I didn't take any during the process.
• In a medium saucepan heat 2 cups heavy cream, 2 cups whole milk and 15 whole cardamom pods (crushed with seeds exposed) to simmer stirring occasionally. Since my pods were a little older I also opened up about 8 additional ones, ground the seeds with my mortar & pestle and added that to the liquid which produced a perfect cardamom flavor. (I would test the flavor before adding in too much.)
• Simmer for about 5 minutes then remove from heat, stir in 1 1/2 C sugar until sugar dissolves completely.
• Let mixture steep for about 25 minutes then with a fine mesh strainer, strain out the cardamom pods add 1 tsp. vanilla extract and chill base overnight. It is very important to have a VERY cold base. The faster the mix freezes, the smaller the ice crystals will be, and the smoother the texture.
• Pour the mix into your ice cream maker and let run about 25 - 30 minutes until you have a thickened base. Transfer into containers and let freeze until ready to serve.
Enjoy!
xo diane
