Fresh Corn Ice Cream

Fresh Corn Ice Cream
Fresh Corn Ice Cream
Sweet corn shows up at New York City's Mesa Grill in many guises, including, at meal's end, a memorable ice cream created by pastry chef Wayne H. Brachman. Our version of chef Brachman's dessert differs from the original only in texture we opted for a smooth ice cream rather than a kernel-studded one.
  • Preparing Time: -
  • Total Time: -
  • Served Person: Makes about 1 1/2 quarts
American Bourbon Milk/Cream Ice Cream Machine Egg Vegetable Dessert Frozen Dessert Corn Summer Gourmet Kidney Friendly Vegetarian Pescatarian Wheat/Gluten-Free Peanut Free Tree Nut Free Soy Free Kosher
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 2 cups milk
  • 3/4 cup firmly packed light brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons bourbon
  • 4 cups fresh corn kernels (cut from about 6 large ears)
  • 9 large egg yolks
  • Carbohydrate 20 g(7%)
  • Cholesterol 118 mg(39%)
  • Fat 12 g(19%)
  • Fiber 1 g(3%)
  • Protein 4 g(7%)
  • Saturated Fat 7 g(34%)
  • Sodium 27 mg(1%)
  • Calories 203

My Unexpected Culinary Adventure: Fresh Corn Ice Cream

As a busy professional, time is my most precious commodity. Juggling work, family, and trying to maintain some semblance of a social life often leaves me with little energy for elaborate cooking projects. I crave simplicity, convenience, and of course, deliciousness. So, when I stumbled upon this recipe for fresh corn ice cream, I was initially hesitant. Ice cream? From scratch? It sounded daunting, a project for a weekend free of deadlines and social obligations. However, something about the intriguing combination of sweet corn and creamy ice cream piqued my interest.

What initially attracted me to this recipe was its simplicity, compared to others I'd seen. Many recipes involve complex techniques and numerous ingredients, making them feel intimidating. This recipe, while producing an incredibly luxurious result, is surprisingly straightforward, making it doable even on a busy weeknight. The simplicity however doesn't mean a compromise on flavour; it's absolutely delicious.

The process itself was incredibly rewarding. The transformation from simple corn kernels to a smooth, rich ice cream was truly magical. Each step felt satisfying: the simmering corn, the whirring of the blender, the straining of the mixture, the gradual thickening of the custard. There's a certain meditative quality to this kind of cooking. It's a welcome break from the usual fast-paced routine of my life, an opportunity to slow down, focus, and appreciate the simple act of creating something delicious from fresh, wholesome ingredients.

More than just a delicious treat, making this ice cream felt like a small act of rebellion against the pressures of my daily life. It's a reminder that even in the midst of chaos, there's always time to indulge in simple pleasures, to create something beautiful and delicious for myself and my loved ones. The sweet taste of the corn ice cream, enjoyed on a warm evening, is a delightful reward for a little bit of creative effort. The simple act of creating something delicious, from humble ingredients, is a powerful reminder of life's sweeter moments.

The creamy texture, perfectly balanced sweetness, and the subtle hint of corn are a unique flavor profile. It's a delightful departure from the usual vanilla or chocolate ice cream, proving that even everyday ingredients can transform into something extraordinary with just a bit of creativity and a little time in the kitchen. I highly recommend this recipe for anyone wanting to embark on a simple yet rewarding culinary adventure.

Beyond the Recipe:

This ice cream's versatility is another key aspect that I truly appreciated. It can easily be adapted to suit various tastes and preferences. For example, you can experiment with different types of sweeteners, or add other flavors like vanilla extract or a hint of lime. This flexibility makes it a perfect canvas for culinary experimentation. The recipe opens up a world of possibilities, allowing you to create your own unique and delicious variations. The beauty of cooking is in the experimentation. Don't be afraid to adjust and adapt to suit your personal taste preferences.

Personal Touch:

On a personal note, I found the process of making this ice cream to be remarkably therapeutic. The simple, repetitive actions – the simmering, the blending, the stirring – were surprisingly calming. It was a welcome escape from the constant barrage of emails, calls, and deadlines. In those moments spent meticulously preparing the ice cream, I found a sense of peace and tranquility that is often elusive in my busy life. It's a small reminder that amidst the daily grind, there's always time to nurture the soul, even through the simple pleasure of creating a delicious dessert.

In conclusion, this fresh corn ice cream recipe is more than just a dessert; it's an experience. It's a chance to slow down, connect with simple ingredients, and create something beautiful and delicious. The recipe is accessible, yet the result is utterly luxurious. It's a true testament to the power of simple ingredients transformed by a little creativity and a whole lot of love.

Step-by-step

    • In a large heavy saucepan combine the corn, the cream, and the granulated sugar and simmer the mixture, covered, for 20 minutes.
    • In a food processor, or in a blender in batches, puree the corn mixture and strain the puree through a fine sieve set over the pan, cleaned, pressing hard on the solids.
    • Add the milk and the bourbon and bring the mixture just to a boil.
    • In a bowl whisk together the egg yolks and the brown sugar, add the corn mixture in a stream, whisking, and pour the mixture back into the pan.
    • Cook the custard over moderately low heat, stirring, until it registers 170°F. on a candy thermometer, strain it through the sieve set over another bowl, and let it cool completely.
    • Freeze the custard in an ice-cream freezer according to the manufacturer's instructions.