Guangzhou, often referred to as the “Canton,” is a city rich in history and culinary tradition. Known for its warm climate, Guangzhou is a paradise for those seeking refreshment in the form of ice-cold delicacies. In this article, we’ll explore some of the top Guangzhou ice-cold delicacies that are both cool and tasty, perfect for savoring during the hot summer months.
Introduction to Guangzhou Cuisine
Guangzhou cuisine, or Cantonese cuisine, is one of the eight major culinary traditions in China. It is renowned for its variety, freshness, and the use of natural flavors. The city’s location on the Pearl River Delta has allowed it to develop a unique blend of flavors, incorporating both local and international ingredients.
Top Guangzhou Ice-Cold Delicacies
1. Double Skin Milk Tea
Double Skin Milk Tea is a beloved beverage in Guangzhou. Made with black tea, milk, and condensed milk, it is served chilled. The tea has a rich, creamy texture with a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors. It is often garnished with a scoop of grass jelly or bubble tea pearls.
**Ingredients:**
- Black tea leaves
- Milk
- Condensed milk
- Ice cubes
**Instructions:**
1. Brew black tea and strain it.
2. Mix the brewed tea with milk and condensed milk.
3. Chill the mixture and serve with ice cubes and optional toppings.
2. Bingsoo (Chinese Ice Cream)
Bingsoo is a popular Korean dessert that has gained a strong following in Guangzhou. It is a frozen dessert made with sweetened red bean paste, fresh fruit, and chewy rice noodles. The texture is smooth, with a hint of chewiness, making it a refreshing treat on a hot day.
**Ingredients:**
- Rice noodles
- Sweetened red bean paste
- Fresh fruit (e.g., strawberries, mango, grapes)
- Ice cream
**Instructions:**
1. Cook the rice noodles according to package instructions.
2. Mix the red bean paste with the ice cream.
3. Top with fresh fruit and rice noodles.
3. Ice-Cold Pork Rib Soup
An unusual yet delightful dish, the Ice-Cold Pork Rib Soup is a perfect balance of savory and refreshing. It is made by simmering pork ribs in a rich broth, then serving it chilled. The soup is clear, with tender pork ribs and a slightly sweet and savory taste.
**Ingredients:**
- Pork ribs
- Ginger
- Scallions
- Rock sugar
- Water
**Instructions:**
1. Boil pork ribs with ginger and scallions.
2. Simmer for several hours until the broth is rich and flavorful.
3. Allow the broth to cool and chill in the refrigerator.
4. Serve chilled, garnished with fresh herbs.
4. Sweetened Condensed Milk with Ice
This is a simple yet delicious treat that can be found in every street food stall in Guangzhou. Sweetened condensed milk is mixed with ice and served in a glass. The combination of creamy milk and the sharpness of ice creates a refreshing drink that is both sweet and cold.
**Ingredients:**
- Sweetened condensed milk
- Ice cubes
**Instructions:**
1. Fill a glass with ice cubes.
2. Pour sweetened condensed milk over the ice.
3. Stir and serve immediately.
5. Green Bean Ice Cream
Green Bean Ice Cream is a unique and traditional Guangzhou dessert. Made with fresh green beans, this ice cream has a slightly sweet and nutty flavor. It is a refreshing dessert that is both cooling and comforting.
**Ingredients:**
- Fresh green beans
- Sugar
- Milk
- Heavy cream
**Instructions:**
1. Boil green beans and puree them.
2. Mix the puree with sugar, milk, and heavy cream.
3. Chill the mixture and freeze it in an ice cream maker.
Conclusion
Guangzhou’s ice-cold delicacies offer a perfect respite from the summer heat. From the creamy richness of Double Skin Milk Tea to the refreshing chewiness of Bingsoo, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these dishes are sure to delight your taste buds and cool you down on a hot summer day.