Raspado Tropical
Introduction to Raspado Tropical
Raspado Tropical, a refreshing blend of crushed ice and tropical fruit flavors, is a popular treat in many Latin American countries. This icy delight is perfect for hot summer days and has its roots in Mexican street food culture, where vendors commonly sell these flavorful ice "shavings" topped with sweet and tangy syrups. The word "raspado" comes from the Spanish word "raspar," meaning "to scrape," referring to the method of shaving ice. While raspados come in a variety of flavors, the tropical version includes a delicious mix of mango, pineapple, and coconut, making it an irresistible sweet and cold delight.
Ingredients
- Mango - 1 ripe
- Pineapple - 1 small
- Fresh Coconut water - 1 cup
- Sugar - 1 cup
- Lime - 2 tablespoons, freshly squeezed
- Shaved Ice - 4 cups
- Mint leaves - for garnish
- Salt - a pinch
Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Syrup
To start, prepare the syrup that will give the shaved ice its delicious flavor. In a small saucepan, combine the sugar and 1/2 cup of water. Stir the mixture over medium heat until the sugar is completely dissolved. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 5 minutes until slightly thickened. Remove from heat and allow it to cool.
Step 2: Prepare the Fruit
While your syrup is cooling, you can prepare the mango and pineapple. Peel the mango, remove the pit, and cut the flesh into small cubes. For the pineapple, cut off the top and base, peel the sides, and then cut it into small chunks. In a blender, add the mango, pineapple, and coconut water. Blend until smooth to create a tropical fruit puree.
Step 3: Combine Elements
Once your syrup is cooled, combine it with the tropical fruit puree and stir in the freshly squeezed lime juice. If you prefer your raspado on the sweeter side, you can adjust the sugar to your liking. Add a pinch of salt to intensify the flavors.
Step 4: Assemble the Raspado
To assemble your Raspado Tropical, fill each serving glass with about a cup of shaved ice. Pour the tropical fruit syrup over the ice, making sure it seeps through all the layers. Garnish with fresh mint leaves for an extra burst of flavor and color.
Serving Suggestions
Raspado Tropical is best enjoyed immediately after preparation, while the ice is still fresh and crisp. You can serve it at your summer parties or enjoy it as a midday refreshment. For an added touch, consider serving it with a straw and spoon, so your guests can enjoy every last morsel of icy goodness. The refreshing taste of tropical fruits combined with the icy texture makes it an excellent dessert or cooling treat any time of year.