Indulge in the delightful combination of sweet peaches and fragrant lavender with this refreshing vegan gelato recipe. Perfect for warm days or as a unique dessert, this gelato is not only delicious but also dairy-free!

Ingredients

For the Gelato Base

• 2 cups ripe peaches, peeled and chopped
• 1 cup coconut milk (full-fat for creaminess)
• 1 cup almond milk (or any plant-based milk of your choice)
• 1/2 cup maple syrup (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon dried culinary lavender
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (to enhance the peach flavor)

Instructions

Step 1: Infuse the Lavender

1. In a small saucepan, combine the almond milk and dried lavender.
2. Heat over low-medium heat until warm, then remove from heat and let steep for about 15 minutes.
3. Strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve to remove the lavender buds, pressing gently to extract all the flavor.

Step 2: Blend the Peaches

1. In a blender, combine the chopped peaches, coconut milk, infused almond milk, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and lemon juice.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust sweetness if necessary.

Step 3: Chill the Mixture

1. Transfer the blended mixture to a bowl and cover it with plastic wrap.
2. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until completely chilled.

Step 4: Churn the Gelato

1. Pour the chilled mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions until it reaches a soft-serve consistency.
2. 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 until it reaches your desired consistency.

Step 5: Freeze and Serve

1. Transfer the gelato to an airtight container and freeze for at least 4 hours to firm up.
2. When ready to serve, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before scooping.

Enjoy!

Scoop your vegan peach and lavender gelato into bowls or cones and enjoy this refreshing treat! The floral notes of lavender perfectly complement the sweetness of peaches, making it an exquisite dessert choice.

Tips

• For added texture, consider folding in some finely chopped fresh peaches just before freezing.
• If you prefer a stronger lavender flavor, you can increase the amount of dried lavender slightly, but be cautious as it can become overpowering.

Unique Vegan Gelato Flavors

Exploring unique vegan gelato flavors can lead to delightful surprises. Here are some interesting options:

• Elderberry: A floral and fruity flavor that is both refreshing and unique.
• Persimmon: Sweet and honey-like, this flavor offers a taste of autumn.
• Alkekengi (Bladder Cherry): A rare flavor that brings a tart and slightly sweet profile.
• Licorice: Creamy and aromatic, this flavor is popular in various gelato shops.
• Lavender Lemonade: A refreshing blend of floral lavender with tangy lemon.
• Matcha Green Tea: Earthy and slightly bitter, perfect for tea lovers.
• Chocolate Chili: A spicy twist on traditional chocolate gelato.

Popular Vegan Gelato Brands

Several brands offer delicious vegan gelato, including:

• Van Leeuwen: Known for its rich flavors like Peanut Butter Brownie Honeycomb and a variety of seasonal offerings.
• Gelato Boy: Offers a vegan strawberry gelato that is praised for its fresh taste.
• Talenti: Provides a selection of vegan sorbetto flavors, including Alphonso Mango and Roman Raspberry.
• McConnell’s Fine Ice Creams: Features dairy-free options like Chocolate Fudge and Cookies, which are highly rated.

Best Ingredients for Vegan Gelato

To create the best vegan gelato, consider using the following ingredients:

• Plant-Based Milk: Coconut milk or almond milk for creaminess.
• Sweeteners: Maple syrup or agave nectar for natural sweetness.
• Fruits: Fresh or frozen fruits to enhance flavor without dairy.
• Thickeners: Cornstarch or tapioca starch can help achieve the right texture.
• Flavorings: Natural extracts (like vanilla) or spices (like cinnamon) to add depth.

Taste Comparison: Peach and Lavender Gelato vs. Traditional Gelato

Peach and lavender gelato offers a distinct taste experience compared to traditional gelato.

• Flavor Profile: The sweetness of peaches combined with the floral notes of lavender creates a refreshing and aromatic experience, while traditional gelato often focuses on creamy and rich flavors like chocolate or vanilla.
• Texture: Vegan gelato may have a slightly different texture due to the absence of dairy fats, but it can still be creamy if made with high-fat plant-based milks.
• Aftertaste: The natural sweetness from fruits in vegan gelato can lead to a cleaner finish compared to the sometimes heavier aftertaste of dairy-based gelatos.

Overall, peach and lavender gelato provides a lighter, more refreshing alternative to traditional options, making it an excellent choice for those seeking unique flavors.

This vegan gelato is not only a treat for your taste buds but also a beautiful addition to any dessert table! Enjoy your creation!