Cendol

Cendol is a beloved iced dessert in Southeast Asia, cherished for its refreshing combination of green rice flour jelly, coconut milk, and palm sugar syrup. You can savor this delightful treat in countries such as Indonesia, Malaysia, Brunei, Cambodia, and Vietnam.

The name "cendol" is believed to derive from the word "jendol" which means "bump" or "swollen" in several languages, possibly alluding to the jelly's shape. This dessert boasts a rich history, with origins that may trace back to Java, Indonesia.

The traditional ingredients for cendol include coconut milk, green jelly noodles made from rice flour, shaved ice, and palm sugar syrup. Some variations feature additional toppings like diced jackfruit, red beans, or even durian. It is commonly sold by street vendors in bustling Southeast Asian cities, holding a special place in the region's culinary culture.

Cendol has even permeated popular culture. Notably, it has been utilized as an online rating system and was famously enjoyed by Barack Obama during his visit to Indonesia. The dessert also sparked some friendly controversy when CNN named the Singaporean version one of the world's top 50 desserts, prompting fervent reactions from Malaysians.