Granita

Granita is a semi-frozen dessert made from sugar, water, and various flavorings. Originating from Sicily, it is available throughout Italy in varying forms. It is related to sorbet and Italian ice; however, in most of Sicily, it has a coarser, more crystalline texture.

History

The origins of granita in Sicily can be traced back to the Arab rule in the 9th century. The Arabs brought the sherbeth, a sweet beverage made from fruits and snow, which later evolved into the granita.

Preparation and Serving

Granita is made by stirring a mixture of sugar and flavorings in water and freezing it. The stirring process breaks up the ice crystals that form, giving granita its characteristic texture. The most common flavors are lemon, almond, coffee, and, in Sicily, mulberry and jasmine.

Granita is often served as a dessert or a refreshing drink. In Sicily, it is common to serve it with a brioche (sweet bun) for breakfast in summer.

Variations

Different regions in Italy have their own variations of granita. In Catania, the texture is so smooth that it can be drunk with a straw, while in Messina, the texture is more granular.

See Also

• Italian cuisine
• Sorbet
• Italian ice
• Sherbet (drink)