Patbingsu
Korean Shaved Ice
A refreshing and customizable Korean shaved ice dessert, featuring a mountain of finely shaved ice topped with sweet red bean paste, chewy rice cakes (tteok), fresh fruit, and a drizzle of condensed milk. Perfect for a hot summer day.
🧂 Ingredients
- 4 cups Finely shaved ice(Ideally made with a bingsu machine for a fluffy texture. If using a regular ice shaver, ensure it produces very fine, snow-like ice.)
- 1/2 cup Sweet red bean paste (pat)(Store-bought or homemade. Ensure it's a sweetened variety, not unsweetened.)
- 6 pieces Mini tteok (Korean rice cakes)(These are typically small, soft, and chewy. If they are larger, cut them into bite-sized pieces. They can be served as-is or lightly blanched in hot water for a softer texture.)
- 2-3 tbsp Condensed milk(Adjust to taste. More can be added if desired.)
- 1/2 cup Fresh fruit(Assorted, diced. Popular choices include strawberries, mangoes, kiwi, blueberries, or peaches.)
- 1-2 scoops Ice cream(Optional, but highly recommended. Vanilla or green tea ice cream are common choices.)
- 1 tsp Toasted soybean powder (injeolmi powder)(Optional, for added nutty flavor and texture.)
- 1 tbsp Chopped nuts(Optional, such as almonds or peanuts, for crunch.)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the ice: If using a bingsu machine, shave the ice directly into serving bowls, creating a fluffy mound. If using a regular ice shaver, shave the ice into a bowl and then transfer it to serving bowls, gently shaping it into a mound. Aim for a light, airy texture, not compacted ice.
⏱️ 5-7 minutes - 2
Assemble the toppings: Artfully arrange the sweet red bean paste over one side of the ice mound. Scatter the mini tteok pieces and diced fresh fruit around the red bean paste and over the remaining ice.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 3
Add optional toppings: If using, place a scoop or two of ice cream on top of the assembled ingredients. Sprinkle with toasted soybean powder and chopped nuts, if desired.
⏱️ 1 minute - 4
Drizzle and serve: Generously drizzle the condensed milk over the entire bingsu. Serve immediately with spoons, as the ice will melt quickly.
⏱️ 1-2 minutes
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For the best texture, use a bingsu machine or an ice shaver that produces very fine, fluffy ice, resembling snow. Avoid using crushed ice, which will melt too quickly.
- ✓Pat (sweet red bean paste) is the traditional base, but feel free to experiment with other toppings like fresh fruit, condensed milk, fruit syrups, mochi, or even cereal.
- ✓Patbingsu is best enjoyed immediately after preparation to experience the delightful contrast between the cold, fluffy ice and the various toppings.
- ✓Consider serving with small spoons or even a small ladle for scooping and sharing.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Injeolmi Bingsu: Top with chewy injeolmi (Korean pounded rice cake), roasted soybean powder, and a drizzle of honey or syrup.
- Mango Bingsu: Use fresh mango chunks and mango syrup as primary toppings.
- Fruit Bingsu: Load up with a variety of seasonal fresh fruits.
- Green Tea Bingsu: Incorporate matcha powder into the ice or use green tea flavored ice cream and toppings.