Wednesday, May 8, 2013

Carmela Soprano's Tortoni - Almond Cream Dessert


But family get-togethers also often include kiddies.
And you wouldn't believe the trouble an Aunt can get into if a niece or nephew
mentions, during show and tell, that he'd been given some rum.
Not worth the hassle.


Bobby Bacala has a kiddie friendly dessert recipe, Tortoni, in his chapter
If I Couldn't Eat, I'd F**king Die in Artie Bucco's The Sopranos Family Cookbook.
And, like the Torta Caprese, it's easy to make.

It's definitely less time consuming that going down to meet the teacher.
And the Guidance Counsellor.
Trust me.


Hint:
Amaretti are almond-flavored cookies.
If you can't find them in your local store, don't panic.
Arrowroot or graham cracker crumbs can be used.
Kick up the almond extract for a bit more flavour.
The teacher won't panic at this sort of treat.


                        Tortoni

Makes 8

Put in a small heavy-duty plastic bag
4 to 6 Italian amaretti cookies
Crush them with a rolling pin or heavy glass.
You'll need 1/4 Cup crumbs.


Combine in a large chilled mixer bowl
2 Cups heavy cream
1/2 Cup Confectioners' sugar
1 1/2 teaspoon vanilla
1/2 teaspoon almond extract
Beat at high speed until the cream hold soft peaks when the beaters are lifted.

In a clean large mixer bowl, beat at low speed until foamy
2 large egg whites
pinch of salt
Gradually increasing the speed, beat until the whites hold soft peaks when the beaters are lifted.

Fold the whites into the whipped cream.
Spoon the mixture into 8 wine glasses, or coffee cups, or pleated paper muffin cups.
Sprinkle the crumbs over the tortoni servings.
cover with plastic wrap and freeze at least 4 hours, or overnight.
Remove from the freezer 15 minutes before serving.


Would I make Tortoni again?
Yes, especially during the summer.
Kids aren't the only ones who like ice cream.
And I'd use the pleated paper muffin cups.
No clean up.


One recipe down.  Fourteen more to go.

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