Who says you can’t enjoy ice cream in winter? Discover the delightful world of Manuka honey ice cream, a unique dessert that’s not only delicious but also good for you!
Exclusive to New Zealand, Manuka honey looks different, with a texture that’s unique to itself. But, more than its looks, Manuka honey is considered the healthiest kind of honey, with higher antibacterial properties compared to other types of honey.
The Manuka honey ice cream recipe features the star ingredient: Manuka honey, a special variety of New Zealand honey known for its distinctive flavor and health benefits.
Let’s explore how to create this mouthwatering treat using the best Manuka honey available.
What Is Manuka Honey?
Manuka honey is a premium variety produced exclusively in New Zealand. It’s derived from the nectar of the native New Zealand manuka tree (Leptospermum scoparium). This special New Zealand honey has a unique flavor profile, featuring a rich, complex taste with subtle floral notes and a creamy texture that sets it apart from other types of honey.
The Health Benefits of Manuka Honey
Here’s why the best manuka honey is one of the healthiest types of honey available:
- High antibacterial properties
- Potential wound-healing abilities
- May support digestive health
- Rich in antioxidants
When shopping for Manuka honey, look for products with a clear Manuka Honey MGO (Mythlgyoxal) label. The MGO rating indicates the potency of the honey’s antibacterial properties, with higher numbers signifying stronger effects.
How to Make Manuka Honey Ice Cream
Ingredients
To create this delectable Manuka honey ice cream, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 cans of Thai coconut milk, preferably full fat
- Around 1/4 of a cup of Kore New Zealand MGO 83+ Manuka honey with 2 tablespoons more set aside
- 2 tablespoons of bee pollen
- Half a teaspoon of Xanthan gum or a tablespoon of arrowroot powder
- Just a pinch of sea salt
Instructions
Follow these steps to make the perfect Manuka honey ice cream:
- In a blender, combine the Manuka honey, bee pollen, Xanthan gum (or arrowroot powder), coconut milk, and a pinch of sea salt. Blend until smooth.
- Refrigerate the mixture overnight or for a few days for better flavor development.
- Process the chilled mixture in an ice cream machine according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Once churned, transfer 1/3 of the ice cream to a chilled container and spread evenly.
- Drizzle some additional Manuka honey on top and sprinkle with any remaining bee pollen.
- Repeat the layering process with the remaining ice cream.
- Freeze the ice cream overnight.
- Before serving, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes to soften slightly.
Tips for the Perfect Manuka Honey Ice Cream
These tips will help you create the best Manuka honey ice cream:
- Use full-fat coconut milk for a creamier texture.
- Choose a high-quality Manuka honey with a strong MGO rating for maximum flavor and health benefits.
- Don’t skip the refrigeration step before churning – it helps develop the flavors.
- Experiment with additional toppings like chopped nuts or dark chocolate chips for added texture.
The best Manuka honey may come at a premium price, but its unique flavor and potential health benefits make it worth the investment.
By using this unique New Zealand honey, you’re creating a delicious dessert with potential health benefits.
Enjoy the distinctive taste of Manuka and indulge in a dessert that’s as nutritious as it is delicious!