Ice Kacang

Global • Vegan

280

kcal

Protein

57.99999999999999g

Carbs

Fat

✓ Verified Nutrition Data

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About Ice Kacang

Shaved ice with red beans, corn, jelly, and syrup

How to Make Ice Kacang (Traditional & Healthy Version)

Prep: 15 min

Cook: 20 min

2 servings

easy

Ice Kacang is a beloved Singaporean dessert that epitomizes the vibrant hawker culture and culinary fusion found in kopitiams across the island. Traditionally served at bustling food centres, this dazzling treat consists of finely shaved ice layered with colourful syrups, sweet beans, and a medley of toppings for a refreshing finish. Its origins trace back to early street vendors who offered shaved ice desserts to cool off in Singapore’s tropical climate. Today, Ice Kacang is a nostalgic favourite that brings back childhood memories, and it’s constantly reinvented to suit modern tastes and health-conscious diners. The allure of Ice Kacang lies in its kaleidoscopic appearance and the playful mix of textures, from crunchy peanuts to chewy attap seeds. Singaporeans cherish this dessert for its ability to combine local flavours, such as gula melaka (palm sugar) and sweet corn, with global influences like evaporated milk. Whether enjoyed after a hearty meal or as a midday snack, Ice Kacang stands as a testament to Singapore’s multicultural food scene. This healthy version reduces added sugar and uses natural ingredients, making it a guilt-free indulgence for dessert lovers.

Diabetic-Friendly Weight Loss Kid-Friendly Vegan Adaptable

Allergens: peanuts, dairy

Ingredients(for 1 generous bowl per person)

3 cups Shaved ice (Use ice shaver for fine texture)
1/2 cup Red kidney beans (Cooked and cooled)
1/4 cup Sweet corn kernels (Fresh or canned)
1/4 cup Grass jelly (cincau) (Cut into cubes)
1/4 cup Attap seeds (palm seeds) (Locally known as 'buah atap')
2 tbsp Low-sugar rose syrup (Preferably homemade or store-bought)
2 tbsp Low-sugar pandan syrup (Natural pandan juice sweetened lightly)
2 tbsp Gula melaka (palm sugar) (Melted, for drizzling)
2 tbsp Evaporated milk (optional) (Use low-fat for health-conscious version) - optional
2 tbsp Crushed unsalted peanuts (For garnish)

Instructions

1
Prepare all toppings in advance: cook red beans until tender, drain sweet corn, cube grass jelly, and rinse attap seeds.
10 minutes
Use freshly cooked beans for best texture.
2
Set up your ice shaver and shave ice into fine, fluffy mounds. Divide evenly into two serving bowls.
5 minutes
Shaved ice should be very fine for authentic kopitiam style.
3
Arrange cooked red beans, sweet corn, grass jelly cubes, and attap seeds around the base of the shaved ice.
2 minutes
Layer ingredients to ensure every spoonful has a mix of textures.
4
Drizzle low-sugar rose syrup, pandan syrup, and melted gula melaka artistically over the ice. Use a light hand to keep it healthy.
2 minutes
Mix syrups just before serving for vibrant colours.

Why This Dish is Healthy

By opting for low-sugar syrups and replacing condensed milk with evaporated or skipping dairy altogether, this Ice Kacang becomes a lighter dessert suitable for weight management and balanced diets. Natural toppings boost nutrient density, and the use of plant-based ingredients supports heart health. The lower glycemic load is ideal for those watching blood sugar, making this a smart choice for both everyday enjoyment and special occasions.

This healthy Ice Kacang recipe features low-sugar syrups and natural toppings, making it lower in calories and added sugars than traditional versions. Red beans provide plant-based protein and dietary fibre, while sweet corn and attap seeds add vitamins and minerals like folate and potassium. Grass jelly is low in calories and offers antioxidant properties. The dish is vegetarian-friendly, and optional evaporated milk can be omitted for a vegan version. Peanuts supply healthy fats and additional protein, contributing to satiety.

Pro Tips

💡Tip 1: Use a manual or electric ice shaver for the fluffiest texture.
💡Tip 2: Make syrups ahead and chill for extra refreshment.
💡Tip 3: Toast peanuts lightly for deeper flavour and aroma.

Storage & Serving

Ice Kacang is best enjoyed fresh and cannot be stored after preparation, as the ice will melt and dilute the toppings. Prep toppings in advance and assemble just before serving.

Best served: Lunch