Honey Thyme Ice Cream, And A Countdown
Medically reviewed by Christiana George Updated Date: June 8, 2023
If you follow me on Pinterest, you’ll have noticed that the activity on my Wedding board has increased lately (mostly because it used to consist of nothing).
Bouquets, dresses, venues, they’re kind of the topic du jour. Du année is more like it. Chris and I are supposedly getting married next summer.
I would understand if nobody believed us. After all, ‘we’re getting married… soon’ is becoming something of a party line, a slogan of sorts. It’s good for when our moms call, or when our friends inquire—although I have noticed that the asking of the question has trailed off as of late. See, nobody believes us anymore.
Though we got engaged last summer, we decided to postpone our wedding by a year because we knew that 2012 was going to be extremely tumultuous: we both quit our jobs, went on an extended backpacking trip, then moved across the country. Who has time for wedding planning among all of that action?
Anyway, we’ve agreed to start planning in September, a prospect I’m not really looking forward to. All the details and the spreadsheets (I’m a Type-A wannabe), the tracking of said details, the eventual arrival at the point where I realize I can’t stop thinking about the details. And there will be lists, and the honing of lists, and the further honing of lists. Finally, the horrifying realization that we’re probably going to spend more on this one day than the two of us did during the whole four months that we spent backpacking through South America. Times two. Or three. I won’t let it reach three, I promise.
Below is one last ice cream recipe to mark our loss of innocence. Before we become initiated to the world of on-site versus off-site catering, sweetheart versus wedding party table, sleek versus poofy (dress, of course), signature cocktail versus open bar, and much, much more. All to come, my friends, all to come… (don’t worry, I promise I won’t inundate you with wedding details.)
Or maybe this recipe just marks the end of the summer months, and a successful conclusion to our very first summer in New York City.
I love the interplay of sweet and savory and this ice cream is both subtle and satisfying. I can’t decide if the thyme amplifies the honey or the honey amplifies the thyme, but it has a very distinct flavor I enjoy very much. Honey ice cream on its own tastes so pure to me: it loses its super-concentrated sweetness, and becomes creamy and floral and light. Thyme is by no means heavy-tasting, but it adds just that touch of… darkness, moodiness, a slightly off-kilter note that’s therefore more complex. An olfactory play on chiarascuro?
Here’s to the end of August, and the beginning of a countdown. 12 months, 11, 10….until I get hitched!
HONEY THYME ICE CREAM
From The New York Times
Makes about 1 quart
Ingredients:
1 cup whole milk
2 cups heavy cream
6 large sprigs fresh thyme
4 egg yolks
3/4 cup honey
Directions:
Combine the milk and cream in a saucepan and add the thyme. Bring to a boil. Remove from the heat, cover and let stand for 20 minutes. Strain and return the mixture to the saucepan.
Meanwhile, whisk the egg yolks in a bowl. Slowly pour in the cream mixture a little bit at a time, whisking constantly. After adding a cup, whisk in the honey and add the rest of the cream. Pour the mixture back into the saucepan, cook over low heat and stir constantly until the mixture is thick enough to coat the back of a spoon. Cool, then refrigerate until cold, 2 hours to overnight. Freeze in an ice-cream machine according to manufacturer’s instructions.
Note: The type of honey you use probably matters very much because there are so few ingredients. Mine was light, kind of a general all-purpose honey. I wonder if the buckwheat honey I tried at the farmer’s market, which was a little too bitter for everyday use, might not work well in this recipe? Also, this ice cream melts quickly. Maybe the honey’s chemical composition lowers the frozen custard’s freezing point? I’m not sure, but if serving to a group, you might want to pass out the bowls as you scoop.
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Are Nectarines Acidic? Nectarines and Acid Reflux
Acidity in fruits plays a crucial role in how they interact with our digestive system. Some fruits are more acidic than others, affecting their suitability for individuals with sensitive stomachs or acid reflux. Understanding a fruit’s acidity helps in making informed dietary choices that support digestive health.
Nectarines, a sweet and juicy stone fruit, are a favorite for their refreshing taste and nutrient profile. However, their acidity raises questions for those managing acid reflux or hyperacidity. Are nectarines acidic? Can they be part of a balanced diet for sensitive stomachs? Let’s dive into these questions to make better, health-conscious decisions.
What Determines a Fruit’s Acidity?
To assess whether nectarines are acidic, we need to understand how a fruit’s acidity is determined.
Understanding the pH Scale
The pH scale, ranging from 0 to 14, measures how acidic or alkaline a substance is:
- 0 to 6.9: Acidic
- 7: Neutral
- 7.1 to 14: Alkaline
Fruits with a pH below 7 are considered acidic. Citrus fruits like lemons and limes have pH values around 2 to 3, making them highly acidic. Low-acid fruits like melons and bananas have pH levels closer to neutral.
Discover pH of common food here
Acidity’s Impact on Digestion and Acid Reflux
Acidic foods can stimulate stomach acid production, which is helpful for digestion in most cases. However, for individuals with acid reflux, excess acid can irritate the esophagus, leading to discomfort or heartburn.
Low-acid or alkaline fruits are often recommended for such individuals, as they are gentler on the stomach and less likely to exacerbate reflux symptoms.
Are Nectarines Acidic?
Yes, nectarines are moderately acidic. Their pH range is typically between 3.9 and 4.2, placing them in the category of acidic fruits.
How Do Nectarines Compare to Other Fruits?
- Peaches: Nectarines are closely related to peaches and have a similar acidity level, with peaches ranging from 3.3 to 4.0 on the pH scale.
- Apples: Sweet apple varieties are less acidic, with pH levels closer to 4.5 to 5.5, making them a better option for individuals with acid reflux.
- Melons: Watermelon and cantaloupe are low-acid fruits with pH levels near 6, offering a gentler alternative.
While nectarines are not as acidic as citrus fruits (e.g., oranges or grapefruits), their moderate acidity can still affect those sensitive to acid.
Is Nectarine Good for Acid Reflux?
The relationship between nectarines and acid reflux depends on individual tolerance. Nectarines are moderately acidic, which means they may trigger symptoms in some individuals while being perfectly tolerable for others.
Tips for Managing Acid Reflux While Eating Nectarines
- Practice Portion Control
Eating small portions of nectarines can help minimize the risk of triggering reflux. Consuming too much fruit at once can overload the stomach, increasing pressure and acid production. - Pair Nectarines with Alkaline Foods
Combine nectarines with neutralizing foods like oatmeal, almonds, or yogurt. These pairings can balance the fruit’s acidity and create a more reflux-friendly meal. - Eat Nectarines Earlier in the Day
Consuming acidic foods earlier in the day allows your body more time to digest and reduces the likelihood of reflux at night.
When to Avoid Nectarines
If you experience heartburn, bloating, or discomfort after eating nectarines, it’s best to reduce your intake or avoid them entirely. Listening to your body and consulting a healthcare provider for personalized advice is crucial.
Are Nectarines Easy on the Stomach?
While their moderate acidity can cause issues for some, nectarines offer benefits that may support overall digestive health.
The Fiber Content of Nectarines
Nectarines are a good source of dietary fiber, with approximately 2 grams per medium-sized fruit. Fiber aids digestion by promoting regular bowel movements and preventing constipation. For individuals without acid sensitivity, this makes nectarines a healthy addition to the diet.
Potential Challenges for Sensitive Stomachs
For people with acid reflux or hyperacidity, nectarines might cause discomfort due to their acidic nature. Symptoms can include heartburn, bloating, or nausea. However, tolerances vary widely, and some individuals may enjoy nectarines without issue.
How Do Nectarines Compare to Other Fruits in Acidity?
Nectarines are a moderately acidic fruit, with a pH level ranging from 3.9 to 4.2. But how does this compare to other commonly consumed fruits?
Comparison with Other Fruits
- Peaches
Nectarines and peaches are closely related, with similar pH levels. However, nectarines are slightly firmer and sometimes perceived as tangier, which may intensify their acidic profile. - Apples
Sweet apples, such as Fuji or Gala, are less acidic, with pH levels between 4.5 and 5.5, making them a better option for those with acid reflux. Tart apples like Granny Smith are closer to nectarines in acidity and may cause discomfort for sensitive individuals. - Berries
Many berries, such as raspberries and blackberries, are more acidic than nectarines, with pH levels ranging from 3.0 to 3.5. Blueberries are slightly less acidic, with a pH of around 3.3 to 3.5. - Bananas and Melons
Bananas and melons, including watermelon and cantaloupe, are some of the least acidic fruits. With pH levels closer to 6.0 to 6.9, they are gentle on the stomach and ideal for those with acid reflux.
Acidic Fruits to Avoid and Non-Acidic Alternatives
When managing acid reflux or hyperacidity, avoiding highly acidic fruits is essential. Here’s a closer look at which fruits to skip and their suitable substitutes.
Acidic Fruits to Avoid
- Citrus Fruits
- Lemons, oranges, grapefruits, and limes are among the most acidic, with pH levels between 2.0 and 3.5.
- Their high citric acid content can irritate the esophagus and worsen acid reflux symptoms.
- Pineapples
- With a pH of 3.0 to 4.0, pineapples are acidic and may trigger heartburn in sensitive individuals.
- Raspberries and Blackberries
- These berries have pH levels around 3.0, making them highly acidic despite their antioxidant benefits.
- Tomatoes
- Technically a fruit, tomatoes and their products (like sauces and juices) are highly acidic, with a pH of 3.5 to 4.7.
Non-Acidic Alternatives
- Bananas
- With a pH around 5.6 to 6.5, bananas are alkaline and help soothe the stomach.
- Melons
- Watermelon, cantaloupe, and honeydew are excellent low-acid fruits with high water content, ideal for hydration and digestion.
- Pears
- Sweet pears are mildly acidic, but far gentler on the stomach compared to most acidic fruits.
- Cucumbers and Sweet Potatoes
- These vegetables are alkaline and make excellent additions to a reflux-friendly diet.
Tip for Balance
Combine acidic fruits like nectarines with non-acidic options to balance your meal. For example, pair slices of nectarine with a bowl of alkaline oatmeal or yogurt to reduce acidity’s impact.
FAQs
Are nectarines and peaches citrus fruits?
No, nectarines and peaches are stone fruits, not citrus fruits. Despite their moderate acidity, they belong to the same family as cherries, plums, and apricots.
What is the most acidic fruit or vegetable?
Highly acidic fruits include lemons and limes, with pH levels around 2.0 to 2.5. Among vegetables, tomatoes are among the most acidic, particularly in concentrated forms like sauces or pastes.
What are the high alkaline fruits?
Alkaline fruits such as bananas, avocados, and melons (cantaloupe and honeydew) have pH levels closer to neutral, making them ideal for acid reflux sufferers.
What fruit does not have any citric acid?
Fruits like bananas, apples, and papayas are free of citric acid, making them gentler on the stomach compared to citrus fruits.
Conclusion
Nectarines, with their moderate acidity, can be a delicious addition to your diet but may not suit everyone, especially those prone to acid reflux. Compared to highly acidic fruits like citrus or berries, nectarines are less harsh but should still be consumed in moderation. Pairing them with alkaline foods or enjoying them as part of a balanced diet can help minimize their impact on sensitive stomachs.
If you experience discomfort, consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice and dietary adjustments. Understanding your body’s needs is the key to enjoying nectarines and other fruits without compromising digestive health.
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