Why Ice Cream is Called Ice Cream: Decoding the Origins and the Mystery of Ice in the Name
The term 'ice cream' is a fascinating blend of culinary history and language evolution. In this article, we'll explore the origins and the mystery behind the name 'ice cream,' tracing its transformation from 'iced cream' to its modern form.
The Historical Context and Early Experimentations
The evolution of ice cream as we know it today can be traced back to the 17th century when French confectioners, including Nicolas Audiger, began experimenting with ice-based desserts. In his 1653 book, 'La Maison reglée,' Audiger described several Fromage recipes, which were made from ices flavored with fruit, cream, sugar, and orange flower water.
The First Large-Scale Manufacturer: Jacob Fussell
One significant figure in the history of ice cream is Jacob Fussell, the first person to manufacture ice cream on a large scale. Fussell started his business by purchasing fresh dairy products from farmers in York County, Pennsylvania, and selling them in Baltimore.
Due to an unstable demand for his dairy products, Fussell often found himself with a surplus of cream. To address this issue, he began making ice cream as a means to utilize and preserve the excess cream. This not only stabilized his demand but also marked the beginning of commercial ice cream production in the United States.
The Evolution of the Term ‘Ice Cream’
The term 'ice cream' as we know it today has a fascinating etymology. The original term was 'iced cream,' where the word 'ice' was used as a verb to describe the process of chilling. Essentially, 'iced cream' referred to chilled cream with added ingredients. This concept is similar to iced tea or iced coffee, where the base is chilled and then flavored.
Over time, the term evolved, and the 'd' was dropped from 'iced' to form 'ice cream.' This linguistic change reflects the gradual acceptance and adaptation of ice cream as a widely recognized dessert in its own right.
The Role of Ice in Home-Made Ice Cream
When individuals make ice cream at home, they often use ice as a key ingredient in the churning process. This process, known as a "canned ice cream" or "ice cream freezer," involves mixing the ingredients and placing them in a container with a handle that is inserted into a container filled with ice and rock salt. The salt lowers the freezing point of the water, allowing the mixture to freeze as it churns. Once frozen, the mixture is transferred to a freezer to harden before serving.
Understanding the Terminology
The term 'ice cream' can be confusing for those who are unfamiliar with its origins and evolution. Understanding the history of the term helps clarify why it is called what it is. The primary reason 'ice cream' is used today is due to the chilling process and the base ingredient of cream, which is essential to the final product.
Conclusion
The term 'ice cream' is not without its intrigue and complexity. From the historical experiments of French confectioners to the large-scale production by Jacob Fussell, the evolution of the term 'ice cream' is a testament to the rich culinary heritage. Understanding the full story behind the name adds a layer of appreciation for this beloved dessert.