Isabella's Aphrodisiac Ice Cream

Preparation

1. Step 1

   In a small skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the almonds and saut&é until just golden. Remove the almonds and dry on paper towel. Put aside for later.

   Step 2

   In a medium saucepan, over medium heat, bring the milk to a simmer. Remove the pan from the heat and set aside.

   Step 3

   In a stainless steel bowl, or double boiler, whisk the yolks with the sugar and salt for 3 minutes, or until pale yellow. Add hot milk slowly while whisking. Place the stainless steel bowl over a pan of simmer water and cook whisking constantly, for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the custard is thick enough to coat the back of a spoon. Remove the custard from the water and stir in the chilled cream, mashed figs, vanilla, and almond extract.

   Step 4

   Chill the mixture for 30 minutes, then pour into an ice cream maker and freeze according to the manufacturer's directions.