Escape the summer heat with a delightfully refreshing Chinese grass jelly drink! This subtly sweet and uniquely textured beverage is a beloved Asian dessert, perfect for a hot day or a sweet treat anytime. Made from the leaves of Mesona chinensis, a plant cultivated in East Asia, grass jelly boasts a surprising jelly-like consistency and a mild, slightly herbal flavor that's both cooling and satisfying. Its versatility allows for countless variations, from simple syrup additions to more complex fruit combinations. This drink is incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal ingredients and preparation time.
Beyond its simple elegance, the grass jelly drink offers a refreshing alternative to sugary sodas and juices. This recipe provides a healthy and delicious option, easily customizable to your taste. Ready to learn how to craft this iconic Asian dessert? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions to create your own perfectly chilled glass of grass jelly goodness.
Tools Needed
- Pot
- Bowl
- Strainer (optional)
Ingredients
- Grass Jelly
- Milk
- Sugar
- Water
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Grass Jelly
- Prepare the grass jelly according to package instructions. This may involve boiling or simply adding hot water.
Step 2. Combine Ingredients
- Once cooled, cut or break the grass jelly into smaller pieces.
- Prepare your desired amount of milk. You can use any type of milk (dairy or non-dairy).
- Add the prepared grass jelly to the milk.
- Sweeten the mixture to your preference using sugar. Adjust the amount to your liking.
- Stir well to combine the grass jelly, milk, and sugar. Ensure the sugar is completely dissolved.
Step 3. Serve
- Pour the mixture into glasses or bowls.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the refreshing drink!
Read more: Chinese Wonton Soup: Thousand-Li Fragrance Recipe
Tips
- For a smoother texture, you may want to use a strainer to remove any larger pieces of grass jelly.
- You can adjust the sweetness to your preference by adding more or less sugar.
- For a richer flavor, you can add other ingredients such as honey, syrup, or fruit.
- If you like, add ice cubes for a chilled drink.
Nutrition
- Calories: varies
- Fat: variesg
- Carbs: variesg
- Protein: variesg
FAQs
1. Where can I buy grass jelly?
You can usually find packaged grass jelly in Asian grocery stores, or online retailers. Look for it in the refrigerated section or in dried form.
2. Can I make grass jelly from scratch?
Yes, but it's a more time-consuming process involving boiling and setting the jelly. Pre-made grass jelly is much more convenient.
3. What can I add to my grass jelly drink to make it more interesting?
Get creative! Try adding fresh fruit like mango or strawberries, different types of milk (soy, almond, coconut), or even a touch of honey or lemon juice for extra flavor.
So there you have it – a simple yet incredibly refreshing Chinese grass jelly drink! This recipe is easily adaptable to your preferences, allowing for endless variations and flavor combinations. Enjoy this cool and satisfying treat any time, day or night!