Celery Gelato With Rhubarb Compote

1. 1

   Put the first 3 ingredients (celery, lemongrass and celery seeds) in a small pot and add water JUST until the greens are covered. Boil 35-40 minutes until celery is soft. Remove the lemongrass, and using an immersion or regular blender, puree. Strain through a fine mesh strainer and set aside. You should have about 1? c celery juice. Set aside.

2. 2

   While the celery is cooking, make the rhubarb compote. Mix the rhubarb, sugar, mint and lemon juice in a bowl and let sit 5-10 minutes. Then pour into a small saucepan set over medium-low heat, cover and cook until rhubarb is tender, about 5 minutes. Fold in 1/2 tsp of the toasted celery seeds, remove from heat, scoop out into a cool bowl, and set aside. When cool, cover and chill in the fridge until you're ready to serve the gelato.

3. 3

   Whisk together cream, milk, sugar, cornstarch, and salt in a heavy saucepan. Bring to a boil over moderate heat, whisking occasionally, then boil, whisking, 2 minutes. Remove from heat and whisk in the celery juice and the remaining 1/2 tsp of the toasted seeds. Transfer to a bowl and chill, uncovered, until cold, at least 1 hour.

4. 4

   Freeze in ice cream maker, then transfer to an airtight container and put in freezer to harden, at least 2 hours. (The ice cream maker is optional but will facilitate the creamy-texture factor.)

5. 5

   When ready to serve, scoop out servings of gelato and top with the rhubarb compote.

No additional tips available.