1/2 Cup Ice Cream, Five, Ginger packs in 230 calories per serving. Indulging in ice cream can be daunting especially for those who love staying fit. Fortunately, ginger ice cream is an option that not only satisfies your cravings but also provides some health benefits.

Ginger contains gingerol, a bioactive compound that has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Furthermore, it improves digestion, relieves nausea, and reduces muscle soreness. Combining ginger with ice cream ensures you get all these benefits while satisfying your taste buds.

In this article, we'll explore the nutritional facts, preparation methods, serving sizes, health benefits, flavors, and toppings of ginger ice cream. Moreover, we'll provide alternatives for those who are lactose intolerant, vegan, or gluten-free to enjoy this dessert. Lastly, we'll suggest some fun ways to serve ginger ice cream for that perfect summer day with friends and family.

What are the nutritional facts of Ginger Ice cream?

A half-cup serving of ginger ice cream contains 230 calories, 15 g of fat, 50 mg of cholesterol, 105 mg of sodium, 21 g of carbohydrates, and 3 g of protein. The high-fat content is due to the use of cream and milk. Ginger supplies the ice cream with fiber, minerals, and vitamins. To reduce calories and fat content, you can substitute the cream and whole milk with low-fat milk or coconut milk. Additionally, you can use honey or maple syrup instead of sugar.

How is Ginger Ice cream made?

To make ginger ice cream, you will need cream, milk, sugar, egg yolks, ginger, and vanilla extract. First, heat the cream and milk in a saucepan to just below boiling point. In a separate bowl, whisk egg yolks and sugar until they become pale and fluffy. Next, add the hot cream mixture to the egg mixture while whisking continuously. Transfer the mixture back into the saucepan and heat over low heat. Stir in ginger and vanilla extract until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. Remove from heat and strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve. Allow it to cool before churning it in an ice cream maker. Store the ice cream in a freezer-safe container and freeze for at least 4 hours before serving.

What is the serving size of Ginger Ice cream?

The recommended serving size for ginger ice cream is half a cup or 125 ml. This will provide you with 230 calories and a decent amount of macro and micronutrients. However, portion control is crucial when consuming ice cream, especially for those watching their calorie intake. To enjoy the dessert without ruining your diet, you can share it with a friend, use smaller bowls, or substitute the ice cream with a healthy snack like fruits or yogurt.

What are the health benefits of Ginger Ice cream?

Ginger ice cream provides numerous health benefits due to the antioxidants, anti-inflammatory, and digestive-aid properties of ginger. Some of these benefits include boosted immunity, improved digestion, reduced muscle soreness, and relief from nausea and motion sickness. However, it is essential to consume ginger ice cream in moderation since it is still high in calories, fat, and sugar.

How to make Ginger Ice cream at home?

To make ginger ice cream at home, you need the following ingredients: 1 cup heavy cream, 1 cup milk, ¾ cup sugar, 4 egg yolks, 2 tbsp grated ginger, and 1 tsp vanilla extract. Heat the cream and milk in a saucepan over medium heat. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks and sugar until pale and thick. Gradually whisk in the hot milk mixture. Pour the mixture back into the pan and stir in the ginger and vanilla. Cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon. Strain through a sieve and chill for at least an hour. Churn in an ice cream maker according to the manufacturer's instructions. Freeze for at least 4 hours before serving.

What are the different flavors of ice cream?

There are various flavors of ice cream, including vanilla, chocolate, strawberry, mint, coffee, and pistachio. Moreover, there are numerous combinations and mix-ins like cookies, nuts, and fruits that make ice cream unique and flavorful. Moreover, if you are lactose intolerant or vegan, you can opt for non-dairy ice cream flavors like coconut, soy, or almond milk ice cream.

What are the toppings that go well with Ginger Ice cream?

Ginger ice cream goes well with toppings that complement its flavors like caramel sauce, chopped nuts, crystallized ginger, or whipped cream. Additionally, you can add fresh fruits like berries or sliced peaches for a healthy twist. Another idea is to use ginger cookies as a topping for extra crunch and ginger flavor.

How to control calorie intake while enjoying Ginger Ice cream?

Enjoying ginger ice cream without ruining your diet is possible by controlling your portion size and frequency. Instead of consuming a full cup, opt for half a cup or a small scoop. Furthermore, try to limit your ice cream indulgence to once or twice a week. Another way to reduce calories while still enjoying ginger ice cream is by choosing healthier alternatives like sorbet, gelato, or frozen yogurt. These desserts are lower in calories and fat but still provide that creamy and sweet texture similar to ice cream.

What are some alternative options to Ginger Ice cream?

Non-dairy ice cream options are suitable alternatives for people who are lactose intolerant, vegan, or gluten-free. These options include soy, almond, cashew, or coconut milk ice cream. Moreover, you can substitute ginger with other spices or fruits like cinnamon, pumpkin, or banana to create unique and flavorful ice cream.

What are some fun ways to serve Ginger Ice cream?

Serving ginger ice cream in a cone or bowl is the traditional way, but why not get creative and make an ice cream sandwich? You can use ginger cookies or graham crackers to sandwich the ice cream. Another fun idea is to make an ice cream float by pouring ginger ale or root beer over the ice cream. Moreover, you can create an ice cream sundae using various toppings like chocolate syrup, fruit sauce, nuts, and whipped cream. Lastly, you can serve ginger ice cream with warm pie, cake, or cobbler for that ultimate dessert experience.