Jamu Granita from the spice islands

Kindi Lantz April 13, 2019

Jamu—an ancient Balinese elixir with a modern day twist

Warm weather is on the horizon, so we have created something to cool you and the whole family down. Jamu, an ancient Balinese elixir that is perfectly suited flavor profile for this summertime-friendly treat. Taking this classically warm drink of citrus and spices and turning it into delicious granita is a perfect way to get the fun started or just chill out like you are supposed to during the summer.
 

What is Jamu? It is a traditional Balinese drink, served warm or cold.

There are many variations on this drink, and we’ve prepared ours with fresh orange juice, cloves, mint and star anise. Once blended you can serve it up warm or pour it over a glass of ice, but we’ve turned it into a refreshing granita. If you have never heard of a Granita, it is one of the simplest frozen treats you can make.  No special equipment is required and most of the time spent is hands-off. The secret to success is to periodically break up the mixture while it’s freezing, so that the syrup doesn’t separate from the liquid. A simple garnish of mint leaves, lime slices and orange peel is all that’s needed for serving.

 

Jamu Granita

Ingredients

1 teaspoon honey
1 teaspoon brown sugar
3 pieces whole clove
A handful of fresh mint leaves
1 teaspoon fresh lime juice

1 piece star anise
3 cups fresh orange juice (from about 5 – 6 oranges)
1/2 cup granulated sugar
Lime slices, orange peels and mint sprigs for garnish (optional)

Procedure

1. Place the honey, brown sugar, cloves mint leaves, lime juice and star anise in a blender or food processor.
2. Process until finely ground.
3. Add to a saucepan along with 1/2 cup of the orange juice and the granulated sugar.
4. Bring to a boil over high heat, stirring frequently.
5. Boil for about a minute, or until sugar is dissolved.
6. Pour the mixture through a strainer into a shallow dish, pressing down to extract all of the liquid. Discard the solids.
7. Add the remaining 2 1/2 cups orange juice, stir and place in the freezer. Stir with a fork every 45 minutes, scraping the sides to break up any solid pieces.
8. Once completely frozen, cover and store overnight.
9. To create the granita, scrape the mixture with a fork to form flakes.
10. Scoop into individual dishes and garnish if desired.

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