Ginger tofu ice cream with caramelized oranges

Silken (smooth) tofu makes a lovely, creamy ice cream that everyone will enjoy, regardless of their diet.

* Serves 4

• 1 cup silken tofu
• 1 cup soy milk
• 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
• 2 tsp. ground ginger
• 1/4 cup chopped crystallized or candied ginger
• 1 tsp. pure vanilla extract
• finely grated zest and juice of 1 large orange

for the caramelized oranges

• 2 large oranges
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 4 tbsp. water

Gently mix all the ice cream ingredients together into a smooth blend. Spoon into an ice cream maker and churn following the manufacturer’s directions, or transfer to a freezer container and follow the hand-mixing instructions. When almost firm, freeze in a freezer container for 15 to 20 minutes before serving. The ice cream can be frozen for up to 1 month, allowing 10 or 15 minutes to soften before serving.

Remove strips of zest from the 2 large oranges and set aside, then remove and discard any remaining rind and the white pith. Cut the oranges into slices and set aside. Cut the zest into fine strips and place in a small saucepan with the sugar and water. Heat until the sugar has dissolved, and then simmer until the mixture forms a golden syrup. Remove from the heat immediately and add the sliced oranges. Return to the heat and cook gently for about 5 minutes, until the slices are well softened, chill. Serve the tofu ice cream with slices of caramelized oranges and a little of the syrup drizzled on top.

Variations:

• Citrus tofu ice

Prepare the basic ice cream recipe, replacing the ground ginger with the finely grated zest of 1 lime, 1 lemon, and 1 orange, and the candied ginger with candied citrus peel.

• Pineapple tofu ice

When preparing the ice cream, omit the ground ginger and replace the candied ginger with candied pineapple. Serve with pineapple sauce instead of the caramelized oranges.

• Ginger & cherry tofu ice

Prepare the basic recipe, replacing the candied ginger with chopped candied cherries. Serve with a shot of maraschino liqueur and some fresh cherries instead of the caramelized oranges.

• Spiced seeded tofu ice

Prepare the basic recipe, replacing the ground ginger with allspice and the candied ginger with 1/8 cup toasted and cooled mixed seeds (such as sesame, sunflower, or pumpkin seeds). Serve with the caramelized oranges or a little soy cream.