Citrus Granita

In Hawaii, we have shave ice, which is usually flavored with crazy, (delicious) artificially flavored syrup. The other day I made this granita, or shave ice with my kids and it was the perfect cool, summer treat. Plus, me being me, I quickly realized that if you pour a little citrus vodka over the top, it turns it into a lovely grown up treat!

Put your cookie sheet in the freezer while you make the liquid to help the freezing process.

4-5 large lemons, oranges etc... or enough to get about 2 cups of juice

2 cups water

2 cups sugar

Cut a couple long strips of rind from the citrus, making sure to not include any of the white pith.

Cut citrus in half & juice them.

In a medium saucepan, combine the water and sugar. Bring to a boil.

Lower heat to simmer, add the lemon juice, and stir to dissolve the sugar.

Add the lemon strips and allow to cool to room temperature.

When cool, strain through a fine-mesh strainer.

Transfer the mixture to the cookie sheet & put back in the freezer.

About every half hour, scrape the mixture with a fork to make ice crystals. Continue until it's frozen to your liking. Serve in a swanky glass.

I'm happy to have this basic recipe to be able to do some improv with! Imagine this with watermelon, peach juice, or even espresso!