I've always found myself feeling a little like an outsider when it comes to defining my own "food philosophy." I seem to end up in a sweet spot between wholesome/health-inspired/allergen-free cooking and a more classical, technique-driven (and probably sugar-laden) sense of cooking.

I generally respond to extremes - those who throw themselves into what they do with complete abandon. I'm inspired by someone like Amy Chaplin as much as I'm inspired by the decadent-driven ways of Nigella Lawson. As much as I appreciate what might be the thing that sets me apart, it often leaves me feeling like I'm in a neither-nor world. Not quite fitting in on either side of the pond.

I barely adapted this amazing recipe to make the most decadent, dairy-filled ice cream ever. In celebration of extremes, heavy cream and in betweens.

DECADENT BLACK SESAME ICE CREAM (Serves 4-6) GLUTEN-FREE

ADAPTED FROM JUST ONE COOKBOOK

1/4 cup black sesame seeds, divided
5 tablespoons honey, divided
3 large egg yolks
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/3 cup granulated sugar
1/4 teaspoon sea salt
600ml heavy cream
Flaky sea salt, for serving

First, toast your sesame seeds - add to a skillet over medium heat. Stirring constantly, toast until they smell nutty and being making a crackling sound. Remove from heat and let cool.

In a food processor, add 3 tablespoons of sesame seeds and pulse until they begin to breakdown into a gritty paste. Add 3 tablespoons honey and pulse until smooth.

In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together egg yolks, sea salt, 2T honey, vanilla, sugar, sesame paste and reserved whole sesame seeds.

In a small saucepan, heat cream until hot, but not boiling. Slowly whisk the cream into the sesame mixture in a continuous, thin stream until well combined and smooth.

Put mixture back onto stovetop over medium-medium high heat until the custard reached 175 degrees. Then, remove from heat and add to a mixing bowl. I will often add the bowl to an ice bath to cool it down quicker, or you can let the mixture come to room temperature.

Chill in the fridge for 4-6 hours or until well-chilled. Add to an ice cream maker and churn for 25 minutes. Add to a baking dish or loaf pan covered with foil and chill two hours for the best texture. I love to serve this ice cream with another sprinkle of black sesame seeds and flaky sea salt.