Last Call for Shaved Ice:Choice Morsel tries Baobing

Summer is almost gone! Linger in the warmth a little longer by trying Asian shaved-ice treats while you still can.

There’s a reason that shaved ice is the sweet of choice in hot Asian countries. Nothing beats the heat like ice!

Just look at your icy options here in Seattle: Korean bigsu, Malaysian ABC ice kachang, Filipino halo-halo or try another of my favorite icy confections, Chinese baobing.

Even centuries ago, ancient civilizations throughout Asia had developed elaborate ways to make ice in the summer to stave off the stifling heat. While the modern freezer has changed the need for underground ice caves, there remains dozens of different ways to actually shave ice.

I love watching the folks at Ambrosia in Seattle’s International District (619 South King St.) turn a block of ice into a fluffy cloud of shavings, and I also like their “have it your way” take on Chinese baobing. At Ambrosia, you choose from an array of toppings and make your own, just like a make-your-own-sundae buffet. Choose from an array of tapioca pearls, red beans, colorful jellies (jello-like pieces in a variety of flavors), even pudding, in addition to the traditional cane sugar syrup and condensed milk that is poured over the top.

If you’ve been indulging in shaved ice this summer, won’t you share your favorite stops with me?

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