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If you are here for a refreshing watermelon granita recipe, chances are you love cold desserts, it’s pretty hot where you live or the AC just decided to stop working right between summer, in which case I send you virtual hugs coz same!! I hate it. Also, it’s so hot that I cannot bake anything, but I am craving something cold and sweet here. So I decided to make some granita!
My father has diabetes and therefore excess sugar in his system is a big no-no. Since he tastes tests most of my recipes, I do feel guilty about the added sugar rush. In order to make up for it, I add honey in most of my recipes or try to make it healthy-ish.
This granita was perfect for Baba because it’s absolutely healthy!
Let’s talk about granita a little bit. So it’s an Italian dessert and the name comes from, yep grainy..pretty obvious! One of my chefs told me that Italians eat almond granita and bread and to that I say, nope not for me. But this watermelon granita…FOR EVERYONE!
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What equipment do I need to make watermelon granita?
–Blender: I use this one at home and it’s perfect for making some watermelon granita. Yes, the jar is small, but you will not be just making granita right? I don’t buy anything unless I can use it literally in all kinds of ways. I did buy a sizzler plate though. So let’s say mostly. This one is priced just right and takes much less space.
–A set of teaspoons and tablespoons: This stainless steel measuring spoon set is perfect. I use the one that my pastry college provided to me. I did use the plastic ones but let me tell you, yes they may look boring but stainless steel is best for long-term and safe use.
–Chef’s knife: When I was studying hotel management, my chef said, keep your knife and wife close. Sexist, but you get it. Our knives are precious to us. We sharpen it regularly, clean it and love it. Our chefs always taught us, love your tools and equipment and they will work perfectly. I agree to that and my knife always has been super kind to me. I bought this knife seven years back and it’s good as new. Here is the knife that I use.
–Freezer safe dish: This is perfect for making granita. This dish will give you enough space to keep scraping the granita. I know it has no lid but you can cover it with aluminum foil. There was another dish with lid but you can get more use out of this one. Of course please check the dimensions if it fits your fridge and oven.
–Serving glass for granita: These glasses are perfect for serving granita.
–Tiny dessert spoon: This one is super cute. It’s a set of fork and a spoon.
What ingredients do I need to make watermelon granita recipe?
Time to talk science.
Watermelon
Watermelon has natural sugars and a whopping 90 percent or more water. This water and sugar is what will make your refreshing dessert. How?
The water freezes into ice crystals.
Honey
The presence of honey and sugar will prevent the granita to set in a hard icy mass. Instead you can easily scrape and get yourself some flaky and grainy ice. Honey is a natural invert sugar and this property helps keep the granita a little soft and crumbly. Now I used Dabur Honey, you can use any honey you want as long as it’s good.
Lemon
Why do I need to add lemon juice? The lemon will cut through the sweetness of the watermelon making it more refreshing. Balance is key to making a good dessert.
How to make watermelon granita recipe?
- Wash, peel and cut the watermelon into smaller pieces.
- No need to remove seeds, as you will be straining the mix later.
- Squeeze a slice of lemon and add the honey.
- Blend it till smooth in a blender.
- Strain and pour the juice into the baking dish.
- Cover using aluminum foil or a cling wrap and place it in the freezer for 1 hour.
- Take it out after 1 hour and scrape using a fork.
- Scrape all over, cover and let it freeze for another hour.
- Repeat this for four times.
- Your watermelon granita is all set to be served now.
- Serve it in a glass or bowl and garnish with a mint sprig.
Step-by-step pictures on watermelon granita recipe?
Make it with me- Video Tutorial
Frequently Asked Questions about watermelon granita recipe:
Can I use a different type of melon instead of watermelon for this granita recipe?
While watermelon works best for this recipe, you can experiment with other melons for different flavors.
Can I replace lemon juice with lime juice in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute lemon juice with lime juice to add a tangy twist to the granita.
Can I use agave syrup or maple syrup instead of honey for a vegan option?
Absolutely! Agave syrup or maple syrup can be used as alternatives to honey for a vegan-friendly version.
How long does it take to freeze the watermelon granita?
The freezing time for the watermelon granita varies but generally takes a 3-4 hours to solidify.
Can I add mint leaves or other herbs to enhance the flavor of the granita?
Yes, adding fresh mint leaves or other herbs can enhance the flavor profile of the granita.
Can I make this granita ahead of time and store it in the freezer?
Yes, you can make the granita ahead of time and store it in the freezer until ready to serve.
Can I use frozen watermelon instead of fresh watermelon?
Fresh watermelon is recommended for optimal taste and texture, but frozen watermelon can be used if you are unable to get fresh ones.
How should I serve the watermelon granita for the best texture?
Serve the watermelon granita in chilled glasses or bowls for a refreshing and slushy texture.
Can I add other fruits, like berries or citrus, to the watermelon granita?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other fruits like berries or citrus slices to create your own unique combination.
Is it possible to make this recipe without using any sweetener?
Yes, you can omit the sweetener if you prefer a less sweet granita, allowing the natural sweetness of the watermelon to shine through.
Other summer recipes:
[ CLICK ON THE IMAGE FOR THE RECIPE]
Refreshing Watermelon Granita recipe- 3 ingredients!
Watermelon granita recipe that is easy to make, uses just three ingredients and is absolutely beginner friendly.
Ingredients
- Watermelon (peeled and cubed): 880 grams
- Honey: 3 tbsp
- Lemon: 1 slice
- Mint for garnish
Directions
- Step 1 Wash, peel, and cut the watermelon into smaller pieces.
- Step 2 No need to remove seeds, as you will be straining the mix later.
- Step 3 Squeeze a slice of lemon and add the honey.
- Step 4 Blend it till smooth in a blender.
- Step 5 Strain and pour the juice into the baking dish.
- Step 6 Cover using aluminum foil or a cling wrap and place it in the freezer for 1 hour.
- Step 7 Take it out after 1 hour and scrape using a fork.
- Step 8 Scrape all over, cover, and let it freeze for another hour.
- Step 9 Repeat this four times.
- Step 10 Your watermelon granita is all set to be served now.
- Step 11 Serve it in a glass or bowl and garnish with a mint sprig.
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I hope you found my post “Refreshing Watermelon Granita recipe” helpful. If you have any queries, feel free to post them in the comments below.
Thank You.
