Italian Style Gelato Making - 7 Senses Gelato (Chiang Mai, Thailand)

Introduction

This tutorial will guide you through the process of making authentic Italian-style gelato, inspired by the techniques used at 7 Senses Gelato in Chiang Mai, Thailand. Gelato is known for its creamy texture and rich flavor, and you'll learn how to create it at home, ensuring a delightful treat for yourself and others.

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

To start making gelato, you will need the following ingredients:

• Milk (preferably whole milk)
• Heavy cream
• Sugar
• Egg yolks (for richness)
• Flavorings (such as vanilla, chocolate, fruit purees, or nuts)

Practical Tips

• Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
• For a dairy-free version, substitute milk and cream with coconut milk or almond milk.

Step 2: Prepare the Base

Creating a gelato base is crucial for achieving the desired texture.

1. In a saucepan, combine:
   • 2 cups of milk
   • 1 cup of heavy cream
   • 3/4 cup of sugar
2. Heat the mixture over medium heat until warm, but do not let it boil.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together:
   • 4 egg yolks
4. Gradually pour the warm milk mixture into the egg yolks while whisking continuously to temper the eggs.
5. Return the combined mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Do not let the mixture boil, as this can curdle the eggs.
• Stir constantly to prevent sticking and burning.

Step 3: Add Flavoring

Once your base has thickened, it's time to infuse it with flavor.

1. Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in your desired flavoring.
   • For vanilla gelato, add 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract.
   • For chocolate gelato, mix in 1/2 cup of cocoa powder or melted chocolate.
   • For fruit gelato, incorporate fruit purees while the base is still warm.

Practical Tips

• Adjust sugar levels based on your flavoring’s sweetness.
• Experiment with combinations for unique flavors.

Step 4: Chill the Mixture

Before churning, the gelato mixture needs to cool down.

1. Transfer the mixture to a bowl and cover it with plastic wrap, ensuring it touches the surface to prevent a skin from forming.
2. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for optimal chilling.

Step 5: Churn the Gelato

Now, it's time to churn the mixture into gelato.

1. Pour the chilled mixture into an ice cream maker.
2. Churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions, usually for about 20-30 minutes, until it reaches a soft-serve consistency.

Practical Tips

• If you don't have an ice cream maker, you can pour the mixture into a shallow dish and freeze it, stirring every 30 minutes to break up ice crystals.

Step 6: Freeze and Serve

Once churned, gelato needs to be frozen to firm up.

1. Transfer the gelato to an airtight container.
2. Freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve gelato in bowls or cones.
• Top with fresh fruits, nuts, or chocolate sauce for added flavor.

Conclusion

Making Italian-style gelato at home is a rewarding process that allows for creativity and personalization. By following these steps, you can enjoy a delicious dessert that's perfect for any occasion. Experiment with different flavors and techniques to find your favorite combinations. Enjoy your homemade gelato!