Top Traditional Chinese Dessert Soups for Winter
Winkei Lee gets the low-down on the must-have traditional Chinese dessert soups this chilly winter season.
The temperature’s dropping through the floor, and even though you’re wrapped in layers, you’re still shivering. Yes, the cold January weather is here again, and it’s time to put something hot in your belly to keep that fire going. This winter, why not head to a traditional Chinese soup dessert shop the next time you need a nighttime sugar fix? The places that serve these liquidy bowls of goodness can be found around town and are open until the wee hours. Popular with Hongkongers of all ages, here are some desserts you should make the most out of this winter.
Black Sesame Soup (Ji Ma Woo)
Black sesame has long been believed to keep hair black and shiny, and—because of its rich fatty acids—your skin supple as well. If you aren’t a big believer in all that, sesame seeds have been proven to be full of vitamins and fiber. Probably one of the thickest sweet soup desserts there is, black sesame soup is made by blending crushed and toasted sesame seeds with finely ground rice into a thick, creamy paste. Rock sugar is added to lightly sweeten without overpowering the dessert. A nicely done black sesame soup should have a beautiful glossy black color, a thick, smooth texture and a fragrant, nutty aroma.
Where to go: With more than 25 years in the business, Luk Lum Desserts serves up this traditional delicacy expertly and at great value for money. Be prepared to share the table with strangers, Hong Kong-style, as it tends to get busy at night.
$15 per bowl. 77–79 Un Chau St., Sham Shui Po, 2361-4205. Open daily 3pm-1:30am.
Walnut Soup (Hup Tou Lou)
The ancient Chinese believed that walnuts, because they are shaped like a brain, were good for your mind. Turns out, walnuts are indeed a good source of nutrients and antioxidants, and help improve reaction to stress, among other health benefits. Walnut soup is made in a similar way to black sesame soup, and is a blend of oven-roasted walnuts and ground rice grains. Brown sugar can be used to sweeten the dessert, and sometimes almonds are added to make it even more flavorful. Thick and smooth in consistency, walnut soup is creamy despite being dairy-free.