Summer is in full swing and sweet and juicy lychees are available in plenty. While we all love to eat them fresh, try these recipes for a different flavour.
Lychee Muffins
Whisk 3/4 cup refined flour, 1/2 cup sugar, 1/2tsp baking soda, 1/4tsp cinnamon powder and 1/4tsp nutmeg powder. In another bowl combine 3tbsp lychee jam, 1 cup buttermilk, and 1 cup beaten egg. Combine both the mixtures. Add 1/2 cup of fresh chopped lychees and pour it equally on a greased muffin cup. Bake at 200ºC for 25 minutes or until the muffins become brownish.
Lychee Lassi
Take 2 cups chopped deseeded lychees, 2 cup of plain yoghurt, and 1/2 cup sugar or lychee syrup if available. Add 1/4 tsp of cardamom powder and blend until smooth. Strain it and serve in a tall glass. Add few ice cubes before serving.
Lychee Ice Cream
Take 2 cups of fresh cream, 1 cup milk, 1/2 cup sugar, and boil. Pour 2 egg yolk mixture into the cream mixture and stir till your get a thicker consistency. Once you add the egg yolk do not boil as the mixture can curdle. Take 2 cups of seedless chopped lychees and add it to the mixture. Overnight freeze it in an ice maker or in a bowl and serve with chopped lychee toppings.
Lychee Salad
Take 15-20 lychees and remove the seeds. Put them in a bowl and drizzle 2tbsp fresh lime juice over them. Add 2tbsp chopped cucumber and 1tbsp of chopped cilantro and toss them well. Serve immediately, garnished with lime zest.
Lychee Chicken
Heat 1tbsp oil in a wok over medium heat. Take boneless chicken pieces, and cook till they are done. Remove it from the skillet. Mix one cup of orange juice, 3tsp sugar, 1 garlic clove, and boil for 5 minutes. Combine 2tsp cornstarch. Add to the skillet and stir till you get a thick consistency. Season with salt and pepper. Add chopped lychees, 15-20 pieces , and cook for a while. Pour it over the cooked chicken pieces and serve.