Granita is a semi-frozen dessert made from sugar, water, and various flavorings. Originally from Sicily, it is available all over Italy. I’ve never been to Italy and enjoyed granita, but I have heard you can not duplicate it, but this is quit delicious and refreshing anyway. If your granita freezes solid before you can stir it, let it stand at room temperature for 15 to 20 minutes. Shave with a fork to create crystals. Freeze until ready to serve. Enjoy!
1 C. fresh raspberries
1/2 C. fresh lime juice
1 1/2 C. simple syrup
Chilled rum (optional)
Process first 3 ingredients and 1 cup cold water in a blender 30 seconds or until smooth. Pour into a 9×5-inch loaf pan. Freeze 4 to 5 hours or until ice crystals form, stirring every hour. If desired, top each serving with a shot of chilled rum.
Simple syrup:
Bring 1 cup water and 1 cup sugar to a boil in a small saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Boil 1 minute or until sugar dissolves. Remove from heat, and cool 30 minutes. Refrigerate in an airtight container up to 2 weeks.