Creamy Lemon Balm Gelato

Step 1

Wash and dry the lemon balm. Roughly tear the leaves, pinching them between your fingertips to bruise the leaves. This will help release the herbs flavour, and make your hands smell wonderful.

Step 2

In a medium saucepan combine 2 1/2 cups milk, lemon zest, and the lemon balm, and bring slowly to a gentle boil over medium heat.

Step 3

Remove the saucepan from the heat and cover. Let the flavours infuse for 30-45 minutes.

Step 4

Strain the mixture through a fine sieve and discard the solids.

Step 5

Return the infused milk back into the pan.

Step 6

In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch and sugar. Whisk in the remaining 1/2 cup milk until the cornstarch has dissolved.

Step 7

Reheat the infused milk over medium heat to a gentle simmer and quickly add the cornstarch mixture, whisking all the while in order to avoid lumps.

Step 8

Reduce heat to medium-low and continue to whisk for 5-6 minutes, until the mixture thickens slightly.

Step 9

Transfer to a bowl and allow the gelato base to cool to room temperature. Once cooled, cover the surface of mixture with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, overnight is best.

Step 10

Remember to put the bowl of your ice cream maker in the freezer to chill overnight too.

Step 11

When your are ready to make your gelato, add the heavy cream into the base and whisk to combine.

Step 12

Transfer the mixture to an ice cream maker and freeze according to the manufacturers instructions.

Step 13

The gelato will be the texture of soft serve ice cream when it's done.

Step 14

I think it tastes best when consumed immediately after churning. To serve later, transfer to a covered container and store in the freezer for up to a week. Let the gelato soften in the fridge for 20-30 minutes before scooping.