what is parfait

A parfait is a type of dessert that can refer to two different dishes depending on the country. In France, where the dish originated, parfait is a frozen dessert made from a base of sugar syrup, egg, and cream. It can be a single flavor or a combination of flavors. The American version of parfait consists of layers of ingredients such as granola, nuts, yogurt, liqueurs, fruits, or whipped cream, and it is served in a tall glass. The American parfait can be made at home without specialist equipment by stirring infrequently while freezing, thanks to the fat, sugar, alcohol, or air that interferes with the formation of water crystals, which would otherwise give the ice cream an uncomfortable texture in the mouth. The term parfait can also refer to a very smooth meat paste or pâté, such as chicken liver parfait.