Strawberry Granita � So Forking Refreshing

We never had air conditioning growing up, and the closest we�d get was a visit to the refrigerator. You�d open the door, and let the cool air wash over you, as you pretended to look for something to eat. Of course, after a few glorious minutes, mom would figure out what was going on, and yell to close the door. I wish I had known about this strawberry granita recipe back then.

You can make and serve this gorgeous granita any time, but it�s really best enjoyed during the summer months. Not only because it�s cold and delicious, but also because it forces you to stick your hot, sweaty face in the freezer four or five times to stir. It�s such a bracing and refreshing experience that I almost feel sorry for people that do have AC. Almost.

Besides a welcomed respite from the heat, this mandatory, periodical forking creates the dessert�s signature texture. By breaking up the ice crystals as the granita freezes, you�ll get what looks exactly like ground granite, which is where this sweet treat�s name actually comes from.

I know it�s still early spring, but strawberries are beautiful right now, so why not practice a few times before the serious heat waves hit? By the way, let me be the first one to say it to you this year�it�s not the heat, it�s the humidity. I hope you give this a try soon. Enjoy!

Ingredients for 8 servings:
(Note: Yes, this will work with other fruit and berry purees)

2 pounds strawberries

1 cup water

1/3 to 1/2 cup white sugar (depending on sweetness of berries)
(Note: I've not tried other types of sweeteners)

1/4 tsp balsamic vinegar

1/2 tsp lemon juice

very small pinch of salt
*Note: freezing times will vary greatly depending on how cold, empty, large, etc., your freezer is. Just keep checking and forking!

View the complete recipe