Concord grapes have a special place in the pantry of nostalgia. Their distinct, intensely “grape” flavor and deep, dark hue evoke memories of long-gone autumns and simpler times. This year, these little fruits have been the star ingredient in the kitchen, transforming into delightful scoops of sorbet and silky ice cream.
The unique taste and color of Concord grapes are unmatched, transporting one back to childhood days of wild grapevines sprawling across old barns and rock-strewn orchards. It's a flavor truly reminiscent of youth and freedom.
On one particular memory-etched weekend, the kitchen filled with the rich aroma of sugar and grapes as a child watched the seemingly magical process of juice extraction. The scene was almost meditative: grapes crushed and their essence slowly dripping through layers of cheesecloth into a waiting bowl, all under the last rays of sunlight casting dancing dust motes in the air.
Despite the seeds, which some might find bothersome, they pose no issue in the enjoyment of Concord grapes' authentic essence. Indeed, these seeds remind us that not all of life's pleasures come without a little challenge.
Non-Traditional Concord Grape Sorbet and Ice Cream Recipe
For the Ice Cream:
Start by preparing about 8 cups of Concord grapes. After destemming, cook them until slightly soft, cool, then pulse in a blender. Strain through a sieve to remove seeds and solids. Return the smooth juice to the pot, add a cup of sugar, and dissolve over low heat. Cool to lukewarm before blending in two cups of heavy cream. Once mixed, chill thoroughly in a freezer before churning in an ice cream maker. The result is a creamy, vibrant Concord grape ice cream that scooped up compliments and second helpings alike.
For the Sorbet:
Similarly, start with 8 cups of Concord grapes, adding a cup of water and the juice of half a lemon. After cooking and mashing, chill, blend, and strain as with the ice cream. Dissolve a cup of sugar in the juice over low heat, then chill. Churn in an ice cream maker until it sets to a delectably dark Concord grape sorbet.
For those who prefer an even smoother texture, consider deseeding the grapes before cooking. Yet for many, the process of creation—whether it involves seeds or not—adds to the charm of homemade desserts.
Traditional Concord Grape Ice Cream Recipe
For a more classical approach, combine:
- 2 cups of heavy cream
- 1 cup of milk
- 1.75 cups of sugar
- A pinch of sea salt
Cook these with 8 cups of Concord grapes and a quarter cup of water until the grapes soften. After cooling, blend and strain for juice. In another pan, warm the cream and milk with half the sugar. Whisk egg yolks with the remaining sugar, and temper with the hot milk mixture to make a light custard. Mix in the grape juice, chill thoroughly, then churn in an ice cream maker and freeze until set.
These recipes invite one to not only relish the luscious flavors of Concord grapes but also to experiment and indulge in the joy of creating something uniquely delightful, echoing the innovative spirit that real cooking is all about.