If you're planning a trip to Georgia, you might be surprised to learn that one of the best things you can do is to try the local ice cream. Georgian ice cream is a hidden gem, and it's not something you'll find in most tourist guides. But trust us, it's worth it.
The History of Georgian Ice Cream
Ice cream has been a popular dessert in Georgia for over a century. The first ice cream factory in the country was opened in the late 19th century, and since then, Georgians have been enjoying this sweet treat in various forms and flavors.
One of the most popular flavors is vanilla, which is often made with real vanilla beans. Other popular flavors include chocolate, strawberry, and pistachio. But if you're feeling adventurous, you can also try some of the more unique flavors, such as blackberry, tarragon, or even beer.
Where to Find the Best Georgian Ice Cream
If you're looking for the best Georgian ice cream, you'll want to head to one of the many ice cream shops in the capital city of Tbilisi. Here are some of the top places to check out:
1. Amorino Gelato
Amorino Gelato is a chain of gelato shops that can be found all over the world, but the one in Tbilisi is particularly special. Here, you can find a variety of flavors, including some that are unique to Georgia, such as sour cherry and Georgian grape.
2. Luca Polare
Luca Polare is a local chain of ice cream shops that has been around since the early 1990s. They offer a wide variety of flavors, including some that are made with Georgian ingredients, such as hazelnuts from the Black Sea region.
3. Entree
Entree is a popular restaurant in Tbilisi that also serves some of the best ice cream in the city. They offer a variety of flavors, including some that are made with local ingredients, such as honey and walnuts.
4. Cafe Leila
Cafe Leila is a cozy cafe located in the Old Town of Tbilisi. They offer a variety of desserts, including some delicious ice cream. One of their most popular flavors is the tarragon ice cream, which is a unique and refreshing taste.
Unique Flavors to Try
If you're feeling adventurous, here are some of the more unique flavors of Georgian ice cream that you should try:
- Blackberry: This flavor is made with fresh blackberries and is a popular choice during the summer months.
- Tarragon: Tarragon is a popular herb in Georgian cuisine, and it's used to flavor everything from soups to salads. It's also a popular flavor for ice cream, and it's surprisingly refreshing.
- Beer: Yes, you read that right. Beer ice cream is a thing in Georgia, and it's surprisingly delicious. It's made with a local beer called Natakhtari and has a slightly bitter taste that pairs well with the sweetness of the ice cream.
- Sour Cherry: Sour cherries are a popular fruit in Georgia, and they're often used in desserts. The sour cherry ice cream is a tart and refreshing flavor that's perfect for a hot summer day.
More Popular Flavors
While the unique flavors of Georgian ice cream are certainly worth trying, there are also some classic flavors that are just as delicious. Here are a few more popular flavors to look out for:
- Vanilla: Vanilla ice cream may seem like a basic flavor, but Georgian vanilla ice cream is anything but basic. It's often made with real vanilla beans, which gives it a rich and creamy flavor.
- Chocolate: Chocolate ice cream is always a crowd-pleaser, and Georgian chocolate ice cream is no exception. It's often made with high-quality cocoa powder, which gives it a deep and rich flavor.
- Pistachio: Pistachio ice cream is a popular flavor in Georgia, and it's easy to see why. It's made with real pistachios, which gives it a nutty and slightly sweet flavor.
Making Your Own Georgian Ice Cream
If you're feeling inspired to try making your own Georgian ice cream, there are a few things you should know. First of all, Georgian ice cream is typically made with a high fat content, which gives it a rich and creamy texture. You'll also want to use high-quality ingredients, such as real vanilla beans or fresh fruit.
Here's a simple recipe for vanilla ice cream that you can try at home:
Ingredients
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 vanilla bean, split and scraped
- Pinch of salt
Directions
- In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, milk, sugar, vanilla bean, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture comes to a simmer.
- Remove from heat and let cool for 10 minutes. Remove the vanilla bean and discard.
- Pour the mixture into a blender and blend until smooth.
- Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer's instructions.
- Transfer the ice cream to a container and freeze until firm, about 4 hours.
Conclusion
Georgian ice cream is a hidden gem that's just waiting to be discovered. With so many unique flavors and local ingredients, it's no wonder that it's become such a popular dessert in the country. So the next time you're in Tbilisi, be sure to stop by one of the local ice cream shops and give it a try. And if you're feeling adventurous, try making your own Georgian ice cream at home. You won't be disappointed.