Hong Kong Classic Drink: Red Bean Ice
Red Bean Ice is a classic Hong Kong dessert drink, known for its refreshing and delightful flavours. This beloved treat combines sweetened red beans, evaporated milk, coconut milk, and crushed ice, often topped with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream. Easy to make and irresistibly delicious, Red Bean Ice holds a special place in the hearts of many who have grown up in Hong Kong.
What is Red Bean Ice (雪糕红豆冰)?
Red Bean Ice is more than just a drink; it’s a nostalgic journey back to the bustling streets and vibrant cafes of Hong Kong. Often found in Hong Kong-style cafes, known locally as cha chaan teng, this dessert drink is a staple on the specialty drinks menu. Its unique blend of ingredients and textures creates a delightful experience that is both refreshing and satisfying.
For many, including myself, Red Bean Ice was a special treat during childhood. It was considered a luxury compared to other drinks, often reserved for special occasions like birthdays or celebrating academic achievements. I vividly remember savouring each spoonful, delighting in the combination of sweet red beans and creamy ice cream hidden beneath the crushed ice. The anticipation of enjoying this treat was as delightful as the drink itself.
The Cultural Significance of Red Bean Ice
Red Bean Ice is not just a delicious treat but also a cultural symbol that represents the unique culinary heritage of Hong Kong. Its popularity in cha chaan tengs highlights the fusion of traditional Chinese ingredients with Western influences, creating a harmonious blend that reflects the city’s cosmopolitan spirit.
This dessert drink is a testament to the creativity and adaptability of Hong Kong’s cuisine, where simple ingredients are transformed into extraordinary culinary delights. Each sip of Red Bean Ice carries with it the history and memories of a vibrant culture, making it a cherished part of Hong Kong’s gastronomic landscape.
Making Red Bean Ice at Home
While Red Bean Ice may have been a rare indulgence in cafes, it is surprisingly simple to recreate at home.
Key Ingredients of Red Bean Ice
- Red Beans: The star ingredient, providing a sweet and slightly nutty flavor.
- Water: Used to cook the red beans until tender.
- Sugar: Adds sweetness to the red beans.
- Salt: Enhances the flavor of the sweetened red beans.
- Sweetened Azuki Red Beans: An optional shortcut for convenience.
- Evaporated Milk: Adds creaminess and richness.
- Coconut Milk: Infuses a subtle tropical flavor.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A delicious topping that complements the sweet red beans.
Steps to Make Red Bean Ice
- Prepare the Red Beans: If using dried red beans, soak them overnight. Drain and rinse, then cook them in 400 mL of water until tender, which typically takes about an hour. Add the sugar and a pinch of salt to the cooked beans, stirring until the sugar is dissolved. If using canned sweetened azuki red beans, you can skip this step.
- Mix the Milks: In a bowl, combine the evaporated milk and coconut milk in a 2:1 ratio. Stir well to blend the flavors.
- Assemble the Drink: Add a generous layer of sweetened red beans at the bottom. Pour the milk mixture over the beans.
- Add the Ice: Fill the glass with small ice cubes, ensuring the ice reaches the top.
- Top with Ice Cream: Finish off with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top of the ice.
Red Bean Ice with Ice Cream
Equipment
Ingredients
Sweetened Red Beans
- 100 g red bean
- 400 mL water
- 50 g sugar
- A pinch of salt
- 1 can sweetened azuki red beans only if you don’t want to prepare and cook
Other
- 1 cup small ice cubes
- 2 part evaporated milk
- 1 part coconut milk
- 1 scoop vanilla ice cream
Instructions
To prepare Sweetened Red Beans:
- Rinse and wash the red beans in a large bowl 3-4 times. Add water until it is 2 inches above the beans. Soak preferably overnight or at least 2 hours.
- In a saucepan, add the soaked red beans and 400mL of water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce the heat to medium-low and cook for 50 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add sugar and salt. Continue cooking for 20-30 minutes, or until the beans are soft and cooked through, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Cook until the mixture thickens, with about half of the beans remaining intact while others start to fall apart. This gives a nice texture to the drink, blending some beans with the milk.
- If you prefer not to prepare the red beans, you can use a can of sweetened azuki red beans instead. The sweetness and texture will be similar to homemade.
Preparing the Drink:
- In a tall glass, add the sweetened red beans.
- Add small ice cubes. If you have a blender, you can make crushed ice for a smoother texture.
- Pour in evaporated milk and coconut milk in a 2:1 ratio.
- Add a scoop of ice cream on top.
- Stir well and enjoy.
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