Rich, creamy ice cream infused with Grenada's famous freshly grated nutmeg. Simple, stunning, and utterly Grenadian.
Nutrition & Info
Allergen Warnings
Equipment Needed
Presentation Guide
Vessel: bowl or waffle cone
Garnishes: freshly grated nutmeg, nutmeg syrup drizzle
Accompaniments: wafer
Instructions
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1
Combine the milk and heavy cream in a medium saucepan and heat over medium flame, stirring occasionally, until the mixture just begins to steam and tiny bubbles appear around the edges but do not let it boil.
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2
In a separate large bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, freshly grated nutmeg, salt, and vanilla extract until the mixture is pale, smooth, and the sugar has mostly dissolved into the eggs.
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3
Temper the eggs by slowly pouring about half a cup of the hot milk mixture into the egg bowl while whisking constantly, then pour this warmed egg mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining milk.
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4
Cook the custard over moderate heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon in a figure-eight pattern, until it thickens enough to coat the back of the spoon and registers 77 degrees Celsius on a thermometer.
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5
Immediately strain the custard through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean metal bowl set inside a larger bowl filled with ice water, then stir the custard occasionally until it is completely chilled.
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6
Pour the chilled custard into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer's instructions, usually twenty to twenty-five minutes, until it reaches the consistency of soft-serve frozen custard.
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7
Transfer the churned ice cream to a freezer-safe container, press a sheet of cling film directly onto the surface to prevent ice crystals, and freeze for at least four hours until firm.
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8
Serve scoops in chilled bowls with a generous grating of fresh nutmeg over the top, allowing each portion to showcase the warm, aromatic spice that defines this Grenadian island classic.
Did You Know?
Grenada produces about 40% of the world's nutmeg supply — it even appears on the national flag.
Chef's Notes
Equipment Tips
- ice cream maker
- saucepan
- mixing bowl
- nutmeg grater
Garnishing
freshly grated nutmeg, nutmeg syrup drizzle
Accompaniments
wafer
The Story Behind Nutmeg Ice Cream
The Story: Nutmeg Ice Cream is Grenada's signature frozen dessert, a rich, creamy ice cream infused with freshly grated Grenadian nutmeg that produces a warm, aromatic sweetness unlike any other frozen treat in the Caribbean. The dish marries the European ice cream tradition introduced during colonial rule with Grenada's most famous agricultural product. Fresh nutmeg, grated directly from the seed and its lacy mace covering, provides a complexity that ground commercial nutmeg cannot match. The ice cream base is typically made from local dairy enriched with condensed milk, sugar, and vanilla.
On the Calendar: Nutmeg ice cream is served year-round in Grenada, available at ice cream shops, beach bars, restaurants, and roadside vendors. It is a must-try for every visitor and a source of deep local pride, often served at celebrations and family gatherings.
Then & Now: While the basic concept has remained simple, local producers have elevated nutmeg ice cream with premium ingredients and artisanal techniques. It has become an emblem of Grenadian food tourism and a symbol of the island's spice heritage.
Legacy: Nutmeg ice cream transforms Grenada's most important agricultural export into its most delightful dessert, proving that the simplest combinations, cream and spice, can capture the essence of an entire island.
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