Gelato siciliano: Raíces árabes e italianas

In Sicily, you don’t need to wait for summer to enjoy a gelato. Thanks to the island’s mild climate all year round, Sicilian gelato is much more than a seasonal pleasure: it’s a daily habit, a small ritual enjoyed every day, from Palermo to Catania, through inland villages and islands. From cups to brioche col tuppo, it’s always the right time for a sweet and authentic break. But when we talk about gelato in Sicily, we’re not just talking about freshness. We’re talking about history, identity, and tradition. It’s on this very island that artisanal gelato took shape, becoming the dessert the world now loves. And to celebrate this excellence, since 2007 Sicily hosts the Sherbeth Festival: the international festival of artisanal gelato, bringing together the world’s best gelato masters and honoring Sicily’s rich taste tradition. The real breakthrough came with Francesco Procopio dei Coltelli from Aci Trezza. He inherited an ingenious machine to make sorbets from his grandfather. Why is Sicilian gelato so special? The secret lies in the quality of typical Sicilian ingredients and the care of the artisanal process: Bronte DOP pistachio Avola almond Lemons from Syracuse Prickly pears, black mulberries, carob In Sicily, every gelateria guards ancient family recipes passed down through generations. Sicilian gelato: excellence that conquers the world Today, Sicilian artisanal gelato is considered a true Italian excellence. More and more gelaterias in Italy and abroad are inspired by the Sicilian school to replicate its authentic quality and flavors. Every cup tells a story of the land, every granita refreshes body and soul. It’s a cultural and gastronomic heritage that combines simplicity and mastery. If you visit Sicily, don’t miss this ritual Whether you’re in Palermo, Catania, Modica or on the smaller islands, treat yourself to an authentic Sicilian gelato or a traditional granita. A simple yet brilliant creation that tells of a people’s ability to turn snow into poetry.

The story of gelato begins in the sun-drenched island of Sicily, where the confluence of cultures gave rise to this beloved frozen dessert. With a history that possibly dates back to the ancient times of Arab rule, Sicilian gelato has evolved from simple snow concoctions mixed with honey and fruit, to the creamy delicacy we know today. The introduction of sugar and the innovative use of local ingredients like almonds and citrus fruits by the Sicilians played a crucial role in the development of gelato. As trade routes expanded, so did the flavors and techniques, which were cultivated and refined over the centuries to create a unique Sicilian gelato experience. The Arabs, for instance, introduced the art of sorbet-making, which laid the foundation for gelato as we know it. Sicilian pistachios, Bronte almonds, and Mount Etna's rich citrus variety are just a few examples that highlight the regional specificity of its gelato. Sicily has been the birthplace of many iconic gelato flavors that have gained international fame. Perhaps the most renowned is the Pistachio di Bronte, known for its rich, nutty flavor and vibrant green color. Another classic is the Cannoli gelato, inspired by the famous Sicilian pastry, which encapsulates the essence of the island in every bite. Each flavor not only offers a delicious experience but also tells the story of the island's bountiful landscape and history.

A well-made pistachio ice cream is nothing short of sensational: creamy unlike any other ice cream, smooth, has a complex flavour with subtle yet delicious hints of savory nuttiness. Plus, it is as addicting as the Sicilian Pistacchios used in making it. This is why we focus on making it right, as the Italian tradition dictates: by carefully blending this noble nut’s paste with high-quality, fresh milk from northern Italy, we deliver the richest, most creamy pistachio ice cream you will taste. Being crafted in Italy without using artificial ingredients, our Pistacchio gelato is authentic gelato, making it naturally lower in fat and calories and providing the smoothest texture, a world apart from regular ice cream.