Green Pea Ice Cream is a frozen dessert that blends cooked green peas with cream, sugar, and vanilla to create a smooth and mildly sweet ice cream. This treat is popular in Chinese cuisine, where green peas are often used in both sweet and savory dishes.
Green Pea Ice Cream is a smooth, subtly sweet, and slightly earthy frozen dessert inspired by traditional Chinese flavours. Known for its refreshing taste and vibrant green colour, this homemade ice cream is a delicious way to enjoy the natural sweetness of green peas. In this guide, we’ll show you how to make Green Pea Ice Cream (China) at home, using simple yet authentic ingredients for a unique and delightful treat.
Ingredients Needed
To make homemade Green Pea Ice Cream, you’ll need:
- 2 cups fresh or frozen green peas
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 4 egg yolks
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp sea salt
- 1/2 tsp matcha powder (optional, for enhanced color and flavor)
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Green Pea Ice Cream
1. Cook and Blend the Peas
In a saucepan, bring water to a boil and cook the green peas for 3–5 minutes until tender. Drain and blend into a smooth puree using a food processor or blender. Strain for an extra smooth texture.
2. Prepare the Ice Cream Base
In a separate saucepan, heat the whole milk and sugar over medium heat until the sugar dissolves. Do not let it boil.
3. Whisk the Egg Yolks
In a bowl, whisk the egg yolks until pale and creamy.
4. Temper the Egg Yolks
Slowly add a ladle of the warm milk mixture into the egg yolks while whisking continuously. Gradually add the rest of the milk mixture, whisking constantly.
5. Cook the Custard
Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon. Do not let it boil.
6. Add Pea Puree and Chill
Remove from heat, stir in the blended green pea puree, vanilla extract, sea salt, and matcha powder (if using). Allow the mixture to cool completely before refrigerating for at least 2 hours.
7. Freeze the Ice Cream
Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions. If you don’t have an ice cream maker, pour the mixture into a container, freeze, and stir every 30 minutes until it reaches a creamy consistency.
8. Serve and Enjoy!
Once frozen, scoop the ice cream into bowls or cones. Garnish with fresh mint leaves or a sprinkle of matcha powder for an elegant touch.
Tips for Best Results
- Use fresh green peas: For the best color and flavor, opt for fresh peas over canned.
- Strain the puree: This ensures a smooth and silky ice cream texture.
- Experiment with flavors: Add a hint of matcha, honey, or coconut milk for a unique variation.
Now that you know how to make Green Pea Ice Cream (China) at home, why not give this vibrant and refreshing dessert a try? Enjoy the creamy, naturally sweet flavours of green peas in every scoop!
