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Fake food fix: Strawberry ice cream
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Nothing says summer like fresh strawberries. Here's a way to to enjoy them today and after the harvest, with this all natural, home made ice cream.
Made with absolutely no refined sugar, the fresh flavor of the strawberries and sweet cream can come through, and no one will miss the artificial flavors, emulsifiers, or processed sugar.
Fake food ingredients found in many commercial ice creams include:
Artificial flavors and colors: These have been linked with behavioral problems and allergies in children. They aren't necessary, so why include them?
High fructose corn syrup (HFCS): Is an ultra-refined sweetener that can raise blood sugar levels much like table sugar can, possibly increasing heart disease risk. Some studies have linked consumption of HFCS to obesity, while others have found contamination of some HFCS samples with mercury. When in doubt, it's best to avoid this sweetener.
Partially hydrogenated oils: Even if the label reads 'no trans fat', you could still be getting more of this bad-for-your-heart fat than you bargained for. As long as the serving size contains less than 0.5 grams trans fat, the food manufacturer can claim that the product has no trans fat; so watch that serving size, or better yet, don't eat anything with partially hydrogenated oils.
Mono and diglycerides: These are emulsifying agents that help give ice cream a smoother consistency. Some may be produced from genetically modified soybeans; unless it's labeled organic, ice cream is likely to contain genetically modified ingredients.
Strawberry Ice Cream, the Real Food way
1 quart fresh strawberries
4 cups organic half and half
3/4 cup maple syrup
4 egg yolks
1 tsp vanilla extract
Wash strawberries and remove stems. Process in blender or food processor until smooth.
Combine half and half with maple syrup and heat over medium until steaming, but not boiling.
Beat egg yolks, then add 1 cup of hot mixture to yolks and whisk to combine.
Add egg mixture to half and half on stove top, stirring constantly, and heat until mixture clings to the back of the spoon.
Remove from heat and add strawberries and vanilla. Stir to combine thoroughly.
Cover and place pan in refrigerator until mixture is completely cooled, about 3 hours.
Follow your ice cream maker's directions.
Real Food Doc Notes:
Strawberries are high in vitamin C, fiber, folic acid, and potassium.
Maple syrup has a relatively low glycemic index, making it a healthier sweetener. It also contains the antioxidant minerals manganese and zinc, which can help prevent atherosclerosis and enhance immune function.
Visit Manfredi Farm in Westerly for local organically grown pick-your-own strawberries.
Organic strawberries are also available at Whole Foods Markets, The Alternative Food Coop, and Trader Joe's.
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