On Thursday, July 4th, following the eruption of Mount Etna, heavy rain of volcanic ash fell on the city of Catania. This led to slippery roads, temporary traffic bans for two-wheeled vehicles, and tourists navigating with umbrellas. The "unusual rain" also temporarily halted operations at Fontanarossa airport, but did not dampen the creativity of the locals. Alongside the expected frustrations expressed through graffiti on outdoor tables and car windows, the influence of the volcanic event reached into the world of ice cream. The historic "Ernesto" Bar and Pasticceria /Pastry shop, located on the Catania seafront, has introduced a new and popular ice cream flavor called "Terra dell'Etna." This flavor is specially designed to diminish the unpleasant effects of the ash. It has become a favorite among both locals and tourists, bringing everyone together in a delightful experience.
Serena Urzì, glacier chef of the Ernesto family business, explained to us the genesis of this dessert and how it caught on. “The idea for this ice cream was born about a month ago. We had to celebrate the fiftieth anniversary of the business and I wanted something that spoke of our city and also our history. Not the variegated classic with a 90s flavor, as in the past, but bold combinations and contemporary workmanship that enhance the local raw materials. It was a real success, we served it in single portions during that special evening. I decided to propose it again during this latest eruption in a cup or cone version. What better occasion?” And what do we find in this eruption of goodness?
"Salted pistachio ice cream, exotic fruit sorbet heart, red fruit coulis and, of course, the famous Etna ash made with sugar coal. It creates the illusion of volcanic grain, without its annoyance."
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