Bing Su, also known as shaved ice or Patbingsu, is a popular Korean dessert that is loved by people of all ages. This frozen treat is made by shaving ice into fine, fluffy snow-like flakes and then topping it with various ingredients such as sweetened condensed milk, red bean paste, fruits, and nuts. But did you know that the flavors and toppings of Bing Su vary depending on the region in which it is served? Let’s take a closer look at the different types of Bing Su found in different regions of Korea and their unique flavors and toppings.
Regional Variations of Bing Su
Seoul Bing Su
Seoul, the capital of South Korea, is famous for its bustling city life, and its Bing Su is no exception. The Seoul-style Bing Su is typically made with shaved ice, sweetened condensed milk, and red bean paste. However, unlike other regions, Seoul Bing Su often includes pieces of tteok (rice cakes) or injeolmi (a type of rice cake coated with roasted soybean powder) as a topping. The rice cake adds a chewy texture to the fluffy shaved ice and enhances the overall flavor of the dessert.
Jeju Island Bing Su
Jeju Island, located off the southern coast of Korea, is known for its beautiful beaches and volcanic landscapes. Jeju Bing Su is a reflection of its natural surroundings and is made with locally-sourced ingredients. The shaved ice in Jeju Island Bing Su is made using mineral-rich water from the island, which gives it a unique taste. The dessert is typically topped with sweetened condensed milk, citrus fruits such as tangerines, and a dollop of Jeju’s famous Hallabong orange marmalade. The combination of sweet and tangy flavors in Jeju Island Bing Su is sure to refresh your taste buds.
Busan Bing Su
Busan, located on the southern coast of Korea, is known for its seafood and beaches. This Bing Su is made with shaved ice, sweetened condensed milk, and various fruits such as strawberries, blueberries, and kiwis. The fruit toppings are typically fresh and in-season, which means that the flavors of Busan Bing Su can change depending on the time of year. Some Busan-style Bing Su also includes a scoop of ice cream on top, which adds a creamy texture to the dish.
Gangwon Province Bing Su
Gangwon Province, located in the northeastern region of Korea, is known for its mountains and ski resorts. The Gangwon Province Bing Su is made with shaved ice, sweetened condensed milk, and a variety of nuts such as peanuts, almonds, and pine nuts. The nuts are often roasted and chopped into small pieces, which gives the dessert a crunchy texture. Gangwon Province Bing Su is also known for its use of black sesame seeds as a topping, which adds a unique nutty flavor to the dessert.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, Bing Su is a beloved dessert in Korea, and its regional variations offer a glimpse into the diverse and unique flavors found throughout the country. Whether you prefer the chewy texture of Seoul-style Bing Su or the refreshing taste of Jeju Island Bing Su, there is a Bing Su for everyone to enjoy. So, the next time you’re in Korea, be sure to try as many variations of Bing Su as you can, and discover your favorite!
Related Questions
What is Bing Su?
Bing Su is a popular Korean dessert made with shaved ice that is topped with various sweet toppings such as fruit, condensed milk, red bean paste, and ice cream. It is a refreshing dessert that is perfect for hot summer days and is enjoyed by people of all ages.
What are the origins of Bing Su?
The origins of Bing Su can be traced back to the Joseon Dynasty in Korea when ice was shaved from frozen lakes and rivers and was served with various fruits and syrups. In the 20th century, Bing Su evolved into the dessert we know today, with the addition of condensed milk, red bean paste, and other toppings.
What are the different types of Bing Su?
There are many different types of Bing Su, ranging from traditional ones with red bean paste and fruit to more modern ones with ice cream, chocolate, and other sweets. Some popular variations include Injeolmi Bing Su (made with sticky rice cakes), Pat Bing Su (made with red bean paste), and Fruit Bing Su (made with fresh fruit).
How is Bing Su made?
Bing Su is made by shaving ice into fine flakes and layering it with various toppings. The ice is shaved using a special machine called a bing su machine, which creates the delicate, fluffy texture that makes Bing Su so unique. The toppings can vary depending on the type of Bing Su being made but usually include sweetened condensed milk, fruit, red bean paste, and ice cream.
What are some popular toppings for Bing Su?
Some popular toppings for Bing Su include sweetened condensed milk, red bean paste, fresh fruit, chocolate sauce, nuts, and ice cream. These toppings can be mixed and matched to create a unique and delicious Bing Su dessert.
