How to Make Watermelon Granita
Granitas are ice desserts similar to sorbet, but with a grainier texture. They're very easy to make at home and require no special equipment. This recipe makes just under a quart. Does this Spark an idea?
Other People Are Reading
Things You'll Need
- 1/2 c. water
- 2/3 c. sugar
- 2 whole limes
- 6 c. cubed watermelon
- Blenders
- Dinner Forks
- Saucepans
- Groceries
- Plastic food containers
- Juicers
- Strainers
- Mixing bowls
Instructions
-
-
1
Place the sugar and water in a small saucepan and bring to a boil. Boil for 1 minute, then shut off the heat and cool completely.
-
2
Juice the limes.
-
-
3
Purée the watermelon by forcing it through a sieve or by removing the seeds and puréeing it in a blender or food processor. Be sure to retain both the juice and the pulp.
-
4
Combine the sugar-syrup mixture, the lime juice and the watermelon purée and stir it all together well.
-
5
Taste the mixture. It should taste very sweet, with the lime juice noticeable. If you can't detect any tang, add more lime juice until you do.
-
6
Place the mixture in a shallow container and put it in the freezer.
-
7
Freeze for 2 to 3 hours, stirring the mixture together and fluffing it with a fork often. This action will create the granita's signature grainy texture.
-
8
Serve the granita just before it freezes completely.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
If the mixture freezes too solid, it's not necessary to melt it. Simply scrape it with a fork or spoon, or grate it with a clean cheese grater.
Exact measurements here aren't crucial, but pick the best, sweetest watermelon you can find.
Adding a small quantity of alcohol can soften the granita's texture. But because the alcohol will not freeze, you'll need to stir the mixture more often. Use a liqueur like Grand Marnier or triple sec, or a spirit like vodka, bourbon or tequila.
