Introduction

Blood Orange Granita is a delightful frozen dessert that captures the vibrant and tangy essence of blood oranges. This icy treat offers a burst of citrusy freshness, perfect for cooling down on warm days or as a zesty palate cleanser.

Who This Recipe Is For

This recipe caters to individuals who appreciate the bright and tangy flavors of blood oranges in a refreshing and light dessert. If you’re seeking a simple yet invigorating frozen treat that celebrates the natural citrus flavors, this Blood Orange Granita is a perfect choice.

Why It’s Great

The charm of Blood Orange Granita lies in its simplicity and vibrant flavors. This dessert captures the natural sweetness and tang of blood oranges in a frozen form, creating a light and palate-cleansing treat that’s both refreshing and invigorating.

Ingredients

• 4-5 large blood oranges (yielding about 2 cups of juice)
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• Zest of 1 blood orange (optional, for added flavor)

Directions

1. Begin by juicing the blood oranges. Strain the juice through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any pulp or seeds, yielding approximately 2 cups of juice. Set aside.
2. In a saucepan, combine the water and granulated sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves completely. Remove from heat and allow the syrup to cool to room temperature.
3. Once the syrup is cooled, stir in the blood orange juice and optional blood orange zest. Mix well to combine.
4. Pour the mixture into a shallow, freezer-safe container or a baking dish. Place it in the freezer.
5. After 1-1.5 hours, use a fork to scrape and stir the partially frozen edges towards the center. Repeat this process every 30-45 minutes for about 3-4 hours, or until the mixture is completely frozen and flaky.
6. Once fully frozen, use a fork to scrape the granita into light, fluffy crystals.
7. Serve the Blood Orange Granita in chilled glasses or bowls, garnishing with a slice of blood orange or a sprig of mint if desired.

Kitchen Equipment

• Fine-mesh sieve
• Saucepan
• Freezer-safe container or baking dish
• Fork

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Blood Orange Granita as a refreshing dessert on its own or as a palate cleanser between courses during a meal. It’s also delightful when paired with a splash of sparkling water or a drizzle of citrus-infused syrup.

Storage Instructions

The granita can be stored in the freezer, covered with plastic wrap, for up to one week. Before serving, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly, then fluff it with a fork again before serving.

Recipe Variations

Experiment with different citrus fruits like regular oranges, lemons, or a combination of citrus for a unique twist on the granita.

Conclusion

Savor the refreshing zest of Blood Orange Granita, where the tangy sweetness of blood oranges is transformed into a delightful frozen dessert. Enjoy this vibrant treat for a burst of citrusy freshness on hot days or as a zesty conclusion to a meal.