Vanilla ice cream, like other flavors of ice
cream, was originally created by cooling a mixture made of cream, sugar,
and vanilla above a container of ice and salt.
The type of vanilla used to flavor ice cream varies by location. In
North America and Europe consumers are interested in a more prominent,
smoky flavor, while in Ireland, a more anise-like flavor is desired.
To create the smooth consistency of ice cream, the mixture has to be
stirred occasionally and then returned to the container of ice and salt
to continue the solidification process.