Lime-Cardamom Snow Leopard Melon Sorbet
Summer often calls for cool treats. Given that summer also produces a wide variety of fruits; making a cool treat with Nature’s bounty is a no-brainer. Snow Leopard Melon is a firmer, slightly sweeter version of honeydew melon; and you can certainly substitute. These melons host a surprising range of health benefits. They offer a diverse nutrient profile. They are a good source of fiber that contributes to overall gut health. They are loaded with powerful anti-oxidants like beta-carotene (pro-vitamin A), phytoene, quercetin and caffeic acid. Supplying potassium and magnesium, they are associated with a beneficial effect on blood pressure. Interestingly, although a deliciously sweet treat, because of Nature’s packaging, recent research indicates that eating fruits such as honeydew melon promotes healthy blood sugar levels. A study examining half a million people people over seven years study found that those who consumed fresh fruit daily were 12% less likely to develop diabetes, compared to those who rarely ate fruit. In those who already had diabetes , eating fruit at least three times per week led to a 13–28% lower risk of experiencing diabetes-related health complications in addition to a 17% lower risk of premature death. For this recipe, no additional sugar was added because the fruit was perfectly ripened. If needed, you can add a small amount of coconut sugar to obtain the desired sweetness.
Snow Leopard Melon
Ingredients:
- 850 grams snow leopard melon (or equivalent, approximately 2 pounds)
- 50 ml (approximately 1/4 cup) fresh squeezed lime juice
- Zest of 1 lime
- 2 grams (approximately ½ teaspoon) ground green cardamom
- 2 grams (approximately ¼ teaspoon) salt
Directions:
Place all the ingredients in a food processor and puree until smooth. Bring to a boil and then reduce to a simmer over medium-low heat. Continue to cook for about 20 minutes, until reduced by one-quarter to one-third. Cool and freeze according to your ice cream maker’s directions, or simply spread thinly in a sheet pan and freeze. To serve, scrape or scoop the sorbet into a dish. This flavor combination is a refreshing intermezzo with a bit of fresh basil!
