Orange Granita

Directions

1. 1
   Clean and wash the oranges.
2. 2
   Cut off the top 1/4 of the oranges and shave a small slice off the bottom so it stands easily.
3. 3
   Using a grapefruit knife, cut out the flesh of the oranges and place in a strainer set over a bowl.
4. 4
   Be careful not to cut through the bottom.
5. 5
   Stand the oranges on a cookie sheet and place in the freezer and freeze until solid.
6. 6
   Press the flesh of the oranges through the strainer to extract all of the juice.
7. 7
   You should end up with about 1 1/2 to 1 3/4 cups of orange juice.
8. 8
   Add the extra 4 cups orange juice. Stir in sugar, a tablespoon at a time, until the mixture is of desired sweetness. Add the basil and orange-flavored liqueur and let sit for 15 minutes.
9. 9
   Strain the mixture into a roasting pan or baking dish.
10. 10
    The dish should be large enough so the liquid is not more than 1-inch deep. Freeze the mixture for 1 hour.
11. 11
    Remove from the freezer and scrape with 2 forks to break up ice.
12. 12
    Return to the freezer and freeze until solid, about 2 to 3 hours, scraping with forks every hour or so.
13. 13
    When the granite is frozen, scoop it into the orange shells and serve immediately.