This recipe is probably the best thing I've discovered since -- I don't know -- ever? It might be ever. I'll let you know if I can think of something more deliciously easy and healthy. Probably not possible, since it's just... well... the one ingredient. Between this and my other favourite treat, kale chips, I'm not sure how I fit anything else into my day. [caption id="attachment_1879" align="aligncenter" width="400" caption="Deliciousness, thy name is banana ice cream."] [/caption] I have no idea how banana magically turns into ice cream with nothing but a bit of blending, but I assure you, it does. This puts store-bought sorbet to shame and, to me, is on par with good-quality ice cream. Here's how you make it:

• Slice bananas no thicker than 1/4-inch thick. (They can be just-ripe or overripe. It doesn't matter. Slightly firmer bananas give a whiter, creamier, more flavour-neutral effect. Riper ones will yield a deeper banana-ey flavour.)
• Freeze in a single layer on a tray lined with plastic wrap, waxed paper or parchment paper -- or in one layer in a resealable freezer bag, laid flat -- until solid, at least 6 hours. (I usually freeze them overnight.)
• Transfer to food processor.
• Whirl until creamy.

OK this last step needs some explanation. When you process the bananas, they'll first go sort of granular, then you'll start to notice it going a bit creamy near the edges. Once this happens, scrape down the sides of the bowl and continue to blend, scrape, blend, scrape, etc. until the whole thing is a smooth, silky, creamy, moussey dream. This whole process should take 3 to 4 minutes. One word of warning: don't try this in a blender. The blade isn't big enough to properly chop the bananas. It has to be a food processor. Variations: You can switch up the flavour by adding another fruit, just as long as at least half of the mixture is banana. Here's a strawberry-banana version: [caption id="attachment_1880" align="aligncenter" width="450" caption="Is there anything this recipe can't do? The answer is no."] [/caption] Try adding vanilla or other essence, citrus zest, spices or a drizzle of maple syrup. Or, fold in toasted nuts, coconut... even chopped chocolate! The possibilities are endless. Personally, I still love it plain. I guess I'm a purist. What about you? What are your favourite ice cream add-ins? How would you make this recipe your own?