Ais kacang

Ais kacang, affectionately known as ABC, is a cherished Malaysian dessert that has also garnered popularity in Singapore and Brunei. Traditionally, it starts with a base of finely shaved ice, created using a specialized ice shaving machine. You’ll commonly find ais kacang at local coffee shops, hawker centers, and food courts throughout Southeast Asia.

This dessert has significantly evolved from its original form, which was simply shaved ice topped with red beans. Today, ais kacang is a vibrant and colorful treat, teeming with a variety of ingredients and flavors. In Malaysia, it typically includes attap chee (palm seed), red beans, sweet corn, grass jelly, roasted peanuts, and agar agar cubes. These are then topped with a mix of evaporated milk, condensed milk, or coconut milk, and drizzled with red rose syrup or sarsi syrup.

Modern versions of ais kacang have become even more adventurous, featuring additions like aloe vera, cendol, nata de coco, or even a scoop of ice cream. Some innovative takes on the dessert include toppings like durian or chocolate syrup. For those who prefer a less colorful version, ais kacang can also be served with palm sugar syrup instead of the usual bright syrups.

Ais kacang is a true reflection of Malaysian culinary creativity and a must-try for anyone exploring the diverse flavors of Southeast Asian cuisine.