Pistachio Chip Ice Cream Recipe

Cook Time: 5 minutes

Ingredients

• 3/4 cup white sugar
• 3/4 cup milk
• 1/3 cup pistachio butter
• 2 drops almond extract
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 drop green gel food coloring
• 2 cups heavy cream, ice cold
• 1/2 cup roasted salted pistachios, plus more for sprinkling
• 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips

Directions

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar and milk. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally. Once boiling, allow the mixture to simmer for 3 minutes. Remove from heat and pour into a bowl. Let it cool to room temperature for about 30 minutes.
2. Once cooled, stir in the pistachio butter, almond extract, vanilla extract, and green food coloring. Whisk everything together until well combined. Place the mixture in the refrigerator and chill for at least 2 hours.
3. In a large mixing bowl, pour the very cold whipping cream. Whisk the cream until soft peaks begin to form.
4. Add half of the chilled pistachio mixture to the whipped cream and gently fold to combine. Once combined, add the remaining pistachio mixture and fold again until just incorporated.
5. Use a spatula to transfer the ice cream mixture into a that can be frozen. Sprinkle half of the roasted pistachios and dark chocolate chips on top. Stir gently with a fork to distribute them evenly throughout the mixture.
6. Sprinkle the remaining pistachios and chocolate chips over the top. Cover the with a piece of plastic wrap, then place the lid on and freeze until solid, at least 4 hours or preferably overnight.
7. Once fully frozen, scoop and serve the ice cream, sprinkling with additional chopped or grated pistachios for garnish.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	968
Total Fat	70g	90%
Saturated Fat	34g	170%
Cholesterol	140mg	47%
Sodium	231mg	10%
Total Carbohydrate	75g	27%
Dietary Fiber	6g	20%
Total Sugars	56g
Protein	16g	31%
Vitamin C	1mg	1%
Calcium	253mg	19%
Iron	4mg	22%
Potassium	633mg	13%

History and Origin:

The creation of pistachio-flavored ice cream is often attributed to the rich culinary traditions of the Mediterranean, where pistachios are a staple ingredient. While ice cream itself is believed to have ancient origins, the pistachio variant became particularly popular in Western cultures during the 19th century. Pistachio Chip Ice Cream, a variation featuring chocolate chips and roasted salted pistachios, further modernizes this classic flavor. This dessert gained notoriety in the United States, particularly in the 20th century, as it began appearing in upscale ice cream parlors and later, in home kitchens. The combination of pistachio and chocolate has become a well-loved pairing in desserts, making pistachio chip ice cream a crowd favorite worldwide.

Regional Variations:

Pistachio ice cream has regional variations, with Italian gelato being one of the most famous renditions. In Italy, pistachio gelato is often crafted with a rich, creamy base and finely ground pistachios, creating a smooth texture and intense flavor. In contrast, American-style pistachio chip ice cream often includes crunchy bits of roasted pistachios and is typically paired with dark chocolate chips, adding texture and a bit of bitterness to balance the sweetness of the ice cream. In Dubai and some parts of the Middle East, pistachio is frequently combined with other traditional flavors such as rose water or saffron, creating a more exotic twist on the classic pistachio ice cream.

Distinguishing Features:

What sets pistachio chip ice cream apart from other similar ice cream varieties is the combination of textures and flavors. The roasted pistachios provide a satisfying crunch, while the chocolate chips add a touch of bitterness that complements the rich, slightly savory taste of the pistachios. This differs from other nut-flavored ice creams, which may not feature the added depth and contrast that chocolate chips bring. While pistachio and chocolate are often paired together in desserts, the no-churn approach of this recipe makes it easy to prepare at home without the need for an ice cream machine.

Where It's Served:

Pistachio Chip Ice Cream is a popular dessert at upscale restaurants, ice cream parlors, and even at home dinner parties. In the United States, it is often found in the freezer aisles of grocery stores, where it's sold alongside other classic flavors like vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry. It's a perfect dessert for special occasions, barbecues, and gatherings, offering a luxurious, nutty flavor that appeals to both adults and children alike. In many Middle Eastern and Mediterranean countries, pistachio-based ice creams are commonly served in cafes and restaurants, often paired with traditional pastries such as baklava.

Interesting Facts:

• Pistachios are one of the oldest flowering nut trees, dating back to ancient Persia (modern-day Iran) and are mentioned in historical texts dating as far back as 6,000 BC.
• Pistachio trees are dioecious, meaning that they have separate male and female trees, and only female trees produce edible nuts.
• In the U.S., pistachio-flavored ice cream is among the top ten most popular flavors, often rivaling classics like vanilla and chocolate.
• Despite the green color of pistachio ice cream, the flavor itself does not require food coloring. The vibrant green is often added to give the ice cream a more visually appealing appearance.

FAQ about Pistachio Chip Ice Cream Recipe