- 2 1/2 pounds blood oranges
- 1 cup water
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 vanilla bean, split lengthwise
- 1 tablespoon brandy
- 1 quart vanilla ice cream
- Cut peel and white pith from blood oranges. Working over bowl to catch juices, cut between membranes to re-lease orange segments into bowl. Combine 1 cup water, 3/4 cup sugar and 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice in medium saucepan. Scrape in seeds from vanilla bean; add vanilla bean. Bring to boil. Reduce heat; simmer until liquid is syrupy, about 8 minutes. Stir in brandy and orange segments and any accumulated juices. Refrigerate until cold. Discard vanilla bean. Scoop vanilla ice cream into bowls. Spoon blood orange compote over and serve.