Few things are as delightful as a cold treat on a hot day. Popsicles, snow cones, and shaved ice are all fan favorites. Italy’s version of shaved ice, granita, is similar to shaved ice but prepared in a very different way that gives it a coarser, crunchier texture closer to that of a snow cone.
While shaved ice is typically prepared with a special ice shaving tool or machine that creates smooth, fluffy sheets of ice from a single block, granita is made by freezing a pureed fruit mixture that is then stirred frequently to break up the ice into tiny particles. The scraping, or agitation, of the concoction prevents it from forming a big block of ice and gives way to granular ice crystals. Unlike a snow cone or snow ball, which are sweetened by flavored syrups, granitas get their sweetness from the fruit and sugar that is combined with water before freezing.
How both granita and shaved ice are enjoyed
Granita recipes can include all types of fruit, from berries to peaches and melons, and may be infused with lemon or lime juice for a burst of citrus. Granita isn’t always fruity, however — it can be flavored with almond, pistachio, coconut, chocolate, or coffee. Iced coffee aficionados will definitely want to give coffee granita a try. You can even make a savory granita with leftover greens. In Sicily — where the treat originated — granitas are typically served in a glass dish at breakfast time and alongside a warm brioche bun. Instead of using of using a spoon to eat it, Sicilians will scoop up the icy treat with the pieces of the brioche and enjoy it that way. Granita also may come topped with whipped cream or fresh herbs like mint or basil.
Variations of shaved ice are popular all over the world, from Asian countries to Mexico and the United States. The dish’s name and serving style is unique to these different regions. In places like Japan and China, where shaved ice dates back centuries, it usually comes in a ball shape, served in a bowl and drizzled with syrup and different toppings. Japanese plantation workers eventually introduced Hawaii to shaved ice in the 20th century. Hawaiian shaved ice is known to be sweeter and more colorful, offering flavors like bubblegum.
