Beat the Heat with Kakigōri!

Summer in Japan is extra special with traditional Japanese desserts such as kakigōri to stay cool.

Kakigōri (かき氷) is a Japanese type of shaved ice dessert. It differs from a snow cone because it is flavored with syrup and condensed milk. The ice in Kakigōri is fluffier and smoother, much like newly-fallen snow, and is best enjoyed eaten with a spoon rather than directly from the paper cone.

Kakigōri is traditionally hand-cranked in machine with sharp blades that turns a block of ice into a finely shaven consistency. Though electric ice shavers can also be used, many kakigōri street vendors are still using hand-cranked machines during hot summers. Kakigōri is one of Japan’s best loved desserts. It’s sold at festivals, most restaurants, and convenience stores all year round.

Some popular kakigōri flavors are green tea, strawberry, grape, melon, Blue Hawaii, cherry, lemon, and sweet plum. If you can’t decide on just one flavor, you can choose to try two or even more flavors in one serving.  You can also add sweet red beans, tapioca pearls, and ice cream to spruce up your kakigōri. One traditional type of kakigōri is called Uji-kintoki, made with green tea syrup and sweet azuki beans (anko). It’s a delicious and easy treat anyone can make and enjoy on a hot day.

Here is a simple recipe you can try. All you need are:

• 1 tsp green tea powder
• 2 tsp granulated sugar
• 2 tbsp hot water
• 2 tbsp sweetened condensed milk
• 2 tbsp anko
• ice cubes

Mix the green tea powder and sugar in the hot water. Allow the mixture to cool in a serving bowl. Shave the ice cubes finely using an ice shaving machine. Place the shaved ice on top of the green tea and sugar mixture. Top it with azuki beans and condensed milk. Enjoy!