Quick Banana Chocolate Tahini Ice Cream

Step 1: Prepare the Tahini Sauce

1. Loosen the Tahini:

   • Why: Tahini can be thick and hard to mix. Loosening it makes it easier to combine with other ingredients.
   • How: Use a spoon or spatula to stir the tahini until it’s smooth and creamy. This ensures a consistent texture.

2. Mix Ingredients:

   • Add Sweetness and Flavor: Combine 80ml maple syrup for sweetness and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract for flavor. These ingredients balance the tahini's nuttiness.
   • Incorporate Water: Slowly add 120ml of hot water while stirring. The hot water helps dissolve the tahini and syrup, making the sauce smoother.

3. Sift in Cocoa:

   • Avoid Lumps: Sifting the 50g cocoa powder ensures there are no clumps in your sauce. This step is crucial for a smooth finish.
   • Add Espresso (Optional): If using a pinch of espresso powder, it enhances the chocolate flavor without making it taste like coffee.

4. Incorporate Salt:

   • Enhance Flavor: A pinch of salt enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors. Mix well until smooth, adjusting with more hot water if the sauce is too thick.

Step 2: Make the Banana Ice Cream

1. Freeze Banana Chunks:

   • Preparation: Slice 8 large ripe bananas into uniform chunks (about 1-inch pieces) to ensure even freezing and blending.
   • Freezing Time: Place the chunks on a tray in a single layer and freeze for 1 hour. This ensures they are solid enough for blending into a creamy texture.

2. Blend the Bananas:

   • Blending Technique: Transfer the frozen banana chunks to a food processor. Start blending until they break down into small pieces.
   • Add Milk Gradually: Begin with 80ml of milk and blend. Adjust by adding more milk as needed to achieve a creamy, soft-serve consistency. This step is crucial for the ice cream’s texture.

3. Storage:

   • Container: If not serving immediately, transfer the blended banana ice cream into an airtight container. Make sure to press it down to remove any air pockets.
   • Freezing Duration: Store it in the freezer for up to three months. If it hardens too much, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before scooping.

Step 3: Assemble and Serve

1. Scoop the Ice Cream:

   • Serving Size: Use an ice cream scoop or large spoon to serve the banana ice cream into bowls. Aim for generous portions.

2. Add Toppings:

   • Drizzle Tahini Sauce: Pour the prepared tahini sauce over the ice cream. Use a spoon to create swirls for visual appeal.
   • Fresh Banana Slices: Slice 4 large ripe bananas and layer the slices on top of the ice cream for added texture and freshness.

3. Store Extra Sauce:

   • Storage Tips: If you have leftover tahini sauce, place it in an airtight container. Store at room temperature for up to four days. You can also refrigerate it if you prefer a cooler sauce.

4. Presentation:

   • Garnish: Consider garnishing with crushed nuts or a sprinkle of cocoa powder for added flavor and texture.
   • Serve Immediately: This dessert is best enjoyed fresh, so serve it right away for the best taste and texture.

5. Enjoy:

   • Flavor Experience: Savor the creamy banana ice cream paired with the rich tahini and chocolate flavors. This treat is perfect for warm days or as a delightful dessert any time!