Il Cucinologo
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Gelo di Anguria

17/11/2023

Gelo di anguria, or Gelu di muluni in Sicilian, is a fresh dessert typical of Sicilian cuisine, ideal on hot summer days. Here is the recipe to prepare this delicious specialty.

Ingredients

  • 1 kg watermelon (cleaned and seedless)
  • 100 g sugar (or to taste, depending on the sweetness of the watermelon)
  • 40 g cornstarch (Maizena)
  • 1 packet of vanillin or the seeds of one vanilla pod
  • Dark chocolate shavings or chips (optional, to simulate watermelon seeds)
  • Chopped pistachios or ground cinnamon for decoration (optional)

Preparation

  1. Cut the watermelon into pieces, removing all seeds, then blend the flesh to obtain a smooth juice. Strain the juice through a sieve to remove any fibers or seed remnants.
  2. Pour the watermelon juice into a pot, add the sugar and cornstarch. Stir well until the cornstarch and sugar are completely dissolved.
  3. Place the pot over medium heat and cook, stirring continuously with a whisk to prevent lumps from forming.
  4. When the mixture begins to thicken and comes to a boil (it should reach the consistency of a custard), remove from the heat and add the vanillin or vanilla seeds, stirring well to distribute the flavor evenly.
  5. Pour the gelo into cups or a baking dish, leveling the surface, and let it cool slightly for a few minutes.
  6. Before the gelo sets completely, decorate it with dark chocolate shavings scattered randomly to simulate seeds, if desired. This step is optional, but adds a touch of realism to the presentation.
  7. Let the watermelon gelo cool completely in the refrigerator for at least 3-4 hours.
  8. When ready to serve, if you used a single dish, cut the gelo into cubes or diamonds and decorate each portion with chopped pistachios or a dusting of cinnamon, according to taste.

Curiosities

This delicious dessert has ancient origins, and it is said to have already been enjoyed at the court of the Arab emirs of Sicily. The simplicity of the ingredients and its soft texture make it a light, hydrating dessert, perfect for ending a summer dinner.

Enjoy your meal and savor the freshness of this Sicilian dessert!