Mango shaved ice is a popular dessert in Taiwan, especially enjoyed during the hot summer months.[1] Distinct from traditional shaved ice which typically includes toppings such as tapioca pearls, taro balls, and grass jelly, mango shaved ice features fresh mango chunks, condensed milk, and mango ice cream atop shaved or finely crushed ice.[2] This combination creates a refreshing and cooling treat that is favoured by both locals and tourists. According to surveys by CNN and various travel magazines, Taiwan's mango shaved ice has been recognized as one of the world's best desserts.[3][4]

Mango shaved ice
CourseDessert
Place of originTaiwan
Serving temperatureCold
Main ingredientsmango, condensed milk, ice cream, shaved ice
Mango shaved ice
Chinese芒果
Literal meaningmango ice
Transcriptions
Standard Mandarin
Hanyu Pinyinmánggǔobīng
Alternative Chinese name
Chinese檨仔
Transcriptions
Southern Min
Hokkien POJsoāiⁿ‑á-peng

History and origin

edit

The exact origins of mango shaved ice are unclear, but it is believed to have evolved as a way to utilize surplus mangoes that were not suitable for sale due to their sour taste.[5] Farmers would soak these underripe mangoes in salt water and then marinate them with sugar, resulting in a tangy-sweet flavour.[6]

Ingredients

edit

The key components of mango shaved ice are fresh mango pieces, condensed milk, and mango-flavored ice cream. The mangoes are typically diced into small cubes, which are then layered over the shaved ice.[7] Condensed milk is drizzled on top to add sweetness, and a scoop of mango ice cream often crowns the dessert, enhancing the fruity flavor and creamy texture.[8]


See also

edit

References

edit
  1. ^ Naomi Rovnick (2012-09-02). "Savoring Taipei's Food Scene". New York Times. Retrieved 2024-06-04.
  2. ^ "Taiwanese foods we can't live without". CNN. 2015-07-23. Retrieved 2024-06-04.
  3. ^ Naomi Rovnick (2015-07-27). "40 of the best Taiwanese foods and drinks". CNN. Retrieved 2024-06-04.
  4. ^ Julia Moskin (2019-06-11). "A New Generation of Chefs Reframes Taiwanese Cuisine in America". New York Times. Retrieved 2024-06-04.
  5. ^ Krista Rogers (2023-05-16). "This popular limited-time mango yogurt shaved ice in Taiwan is everything you need this summer". Sora News. Retrieved 2024-06-04.
  6. ^ "Taiwanese mango mania is here". The Star. 2023-07-10. Retrieved 2024-07-10.
  7. ^ "Tainan City mayor showcases mango ice cream preparation in Singapore supermarket". Fresh Plaza. 2024-07-02.
  8. ^ 張聖恩 (2018-12-20). "Taiwan's 'shaved ice' among world's top desserts: CNN". Taipei Times. Retrieved 2024-06-04.