Halo-halo is one of my favorite summertime desserts. From the Philippines—the name means “mix-mix” in Tagalog—the refreshing dish layers shaved ice and condensed milk on top of all sorts of ingredients for an end result that packs in lots of contrasting textures, from chewy to crunchy, creamy to sticky. While components vary, you’ll find some common add-ins at most halo-halo carts and bars: jellies, flan, macapuno, palm seeds, sweetened red beans, shaved ice, ube ice cream, fresh fruit, toasted coconut flakes, pinipig. My version uses fresh fruits like: jackfruit, mango, mango jelly with fresh fruit set into it as well as pandan-infused sweetened condensed milk.
We may speak different languages, practice different religions, and live in different environments, but we all have to eat. I grew up in a very diverse suburban community. Tasting all sorts of different foods that I normally didn’t eat home sparked my curiosity and fascination for other cultures.
This icy treat is known for its flavorful taste, and has a rich history that dates back to the pre-war Japanese period. While its Filipino name means ‘mix-mix’ in English, this favourite shaved ice dessert was introduced to the Filipinos by the Japanese settlers. According to historians, the Japanese had sweet desserts called ‘Mitsumame‘ or ‘mongo con hielo‘ and ‘kakigori’ which closely resemble the Filipinos’ Halo-halo.
To cool off in the tropical heat, Philippine locals do one of three things: head for the nearest air-conditioned mall, dip into a swimming pool, or indulge themselves with a cup of their favourite ice-cold Halo-halo. It’s a Filipino dessert classic that warms the hearts of many with glowing pride and nostalgia, and is an absolute must-try when visiting the country.
Some authors specifically attribute halo-halo to the 1920s or 1930s Japanese migrants in the Quinta Market of Quiapo, Manila, due to its proximity to the Insular Ice Plant, Quiapo’s main ice supply. During that time, Filipinos were only beginning to familiarize themselves with ice cream and frozen treats as there was limited supply of ice before the Americans built the Insular Ice Plant. Thus, there was a positive reception towards the Japanese dessert. On the other hand, the Japanese settlers saw it as an opportunity to earn profit and soon, a number of places selling ‘mong-ya’ became a hit in the Metro Manila area. While the Japanese settlers left after World War II, the Filipinos took hold of the dessert’s popularity and adapted it to suit their preferences – for instance, adding ube jam or ube ice cream to the concoction.
Since then, Halo-halo has become one of the Philippines’ best comfort food dishes.
No comments:
Post a Comment