When I first came up with this recipe, I wasn't expecting anything too special... I quickly learned I was very, very wrong! The flavors somehow just all came together perfectly, and resulted in what is now one of my favorite ice cream recipes. This recipe is definitely a notch above your typical homemade strawberry ice cream recipe; I've thrown in quite a few "secret" little ingredients that really complement the flavor of the fresh strawberries.  

When Strawberries are in season, I just love making this strawberry ice cream for all my friends and family (and they love it too!).

1 recipe custard base

pinch of salt (sea salt is best)

6 large strawberries (could be more than ten if using smaller ones; comes to be nearly a cup when they are chopped up)

1 tsp. raspberry vodka (other vodka is ok too, or even none at all)

1/2 of a lemon

1 tsp. vanilla

1.) First chop up all your strawberries into small pieces. Add them to a saucepan. Squeeze the half lemon over the strawberries. Cook on low heat, and after reaching a boil continue for a minute or two (strawberries should be very soft). Transfer strawberries to a separate bowl, and allow them to cool a little while you prepare the custard base.

2.) Prepare the custard base, adding a pinch of salt at the beginning. When finished add vanilla and raspberry vodka.

3.) Combine the custard base and the strawberries. Mix well. Chill in refrigerator. Add to ice cream maker and follow ice cream makers instructions.

optional; dark chocolate bar (One time I was making this recipe and I happened to have a pomegranate flavored dark chocolate bar. It made a great addition to the ice cream.

This homemade strawberry ice cream will top anything you find at the store, so enjoy!