Longan-Mandarin Ice
A refreshing frozen treat featuring sweet longan berries and tangy mandarins, perfect for hot days or as a cool dessert at gatherings, offering fruity and citrus flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain longans and mandarins, and set aside their syrups.
- Heat water and sugar in a saucepan until the sugar dissolves.
- Add lemon juice, longan syrup, and mandarin syrup; cool the mixture.
- Blend the syrup with the drained fruits until smooth.
- Freeze the mixture in an ice cream maker or use the freezer tray method until firm.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more complex flavor, consider adding a splash of Apple Cider Vinegar to the syrup mixture. If longan berries are unavailable, you can substitute them with lychee for a similar taste and texture. Make sure to blend the fruits thoroughly for a smooth consistency, and adjust the sugar based on your sweetness preference.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Longan-Mandarin Ice in chilled bowls or cups for an elegant presentation. It pairs beautifully with Wassail Holiday Punch or can be topped with fresh mint leaves for color. This dessert can also be served alongside a light salad like Claremont Salad for a refreshing meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the freezer for up to two weeks. To rehydrate, let the ice sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before scooping. If it becomes too hard, you can also blend it again to restore a smoother texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Longan-Mandarin Ice contains roughly 281 calories, with 6g protein, 70g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (114% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (45% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and protein. It also contributes 12g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! This Longan-Mandarin Ice can be prepared a day in advance. Just make sure to store it properly in an airtight container in the freezer. Allow it to soften slightly before serving if it gets too hard overnight.
Is there a vegan option for this recipe?
Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan! All the ingredients used, including longan berries, mandarins, and sugar, are plant-based. Just ensure that the sugar you use is vegan, as some sugar is processed with bone char.
How can I adjust the sweetness of the ice?
You can easily adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of sugar added to the syrup. Start with half the amount and taste the mixture before blending with the fruit. Remember that freezing can dull sweetness, so taste accordingly before freezing.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).