Ice candy for summer

CEBU, Philippines - Global warming has been the talk these past years. It remains rather a vague idea with many people. Some say the matter is simply speculation among intellectuals; others think it does not concern them directly.

In the Philippines, in particular, the issue of global warming has not entirely seized the public mind despite great efforts by advocacy groups. Perhaps it’s because Filipinos are after all used to the hot climate. Or, perhaps it’s because Filipinos are confident to device a solution anyway, as they do with any problem they encounter.

Indeed, Filipinos are very creative and adaptive. If you ask a Filipino child what he would do if the weather gets warmer, you’ll probably get a quick answer: “My Mama will make ice candy!” And Mama will probably have no problem finding something to make into ice candy – the country is lucky to have an abundance of fruits.

Most, if not all, Philippine fruits can be made into ice candy, not only the sweet fruits. Take, for instance, avocado. The creaminess of the fruit is really a delight when made into ice candy. And, like any ice candy, it is not rocket-science to do.

As summer approaches, it may be a good time to try making Avocado Ice Candy at home. The website www.kawalingpinoy.com shares the following recipe:

Avocado Ice Candy

Ingredients:

? 4 large avocados

? 4 cups fresh milk

? 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk

? ½ cup refined sugar

Procedure:

? Cut avocado in half, discard pit and scoop out flesh.

? In a blender, combine avocado, fresh milk, condensed milk and sugar. Process until smooth.

? Using a funnel, pour blended mixture into plastic bags up to ¾ full leaving about 3 inches of plastic.

? Twist the remaining three inches until tube is firm but not too tight, and tie into a knot. Arrange filled plastic tubes in a single layer on a flat dish and freeze for about 2 to 3 hours or until frozen.

This recipe can produce up to two dozens regular size ice candies. The outcome is sure to be a hit with family members. And as the kids are going to be mostly at home during the summer school break, they may want to make money by selling Mama’s Avocado Ice Candy to the neighbors. (FREEMAN)