When you search the term shaved ice, you may be surprised at the variation you’ll see. In the United States, the term shaved ice refers to thinly shaved pieces of ice that have been flavored with a syrup. But with a little digging, it becomes clear that the shaved ice we know and love isn’t the only variant out there. Other countries, such as Taiwan, have their own unique shaved ice tradition.

History

Despite being called “Hawaiian” shaved ice, this form of shaved ice actually originates from Japan. Japanese shaved ice or kakigōri was invented sometime during the Heian period. Blocks of ice were shaved and then flavored with fruit syrup for the Japanese aristocracy to enjoy.

During the early 1900s, many Japanese people immigrated to Hawaii to work on plantations. The hard work and hot climate made these individuals homesick for kakigōri. With ice more readily available due to technological advancements, these Japanese immigrants were able to recreate a version of kakigōri that eventually became known as Hawaiian shaved ice. Now Hawaiian shaved ice is considered a cornerstone of Hawaiian culture and has spread across America to compete with the less refined snow cone.

Taiwanese shaved ice was first recorded in China sometime during the 7th century. Known as baobing or tsuabing in the Tawianese Hokkien dialect, Taiwanese shaved ice was served with fruit and other toppings as a refreshing treat.

Flavors

Hawaiian shaved ice is flavored through the use of syrup. Once the ice has been thinly shaved and then packed into a serving cup, customers can choose which syrup flavors they would like. While some prefer single flavor syrups, others take the opportunity to combine several base flavors to create new and unique tastes.

In contrast, Taiwanese shaved ice doesn’t add any flavor additives to the ice itself. Fresh toppings are placed on top of the ice to cool. Flavors from toppings may be absorbed by the ice, but the intention is to eat the toppings along with a spoonful of shaved ice. The soft and refreshing texture of the shaved ice compliments the additives and provides a tasty way to cool down.

Toppings

Usually, Hawaiian shaved ice doesn’t utilize toppings. Because of the sugary nature of the syrup, toppings aren’t needed to add flavor. When toppings are added, they are used to garnish the dessert rather than being intended for consumption.

However, Taiwanese shaved ice is exclusively flavored with toppings. The cool shaved ice acts as a base to keep additional toppings cool for longer periods of time, making them perfect for a hot day. Common Taiwanese shaved ice toppings include fruit, condensed milk, sugar water, adzuki beans, mung beans, and tapioca balls.

Seasonal Differences

Both Hawaiian shaved ice and Taiwanese shaved ice are popular in the hotter months of the year, but they do experience some seasonal differences.

Because Hawaiian shaved ice is flavored with syrup, vendors offer all of the same syrups year round. Individual sellers may try certain flavor promotions or combinations, but none of these are dictated by syrup availability. Additionally, because the climate of the United States varies from state to state, certain states experience little to no seasonal change in business.

Taiwanese shaved ice has to contend with serving seasonal ingredients and vendors have to change their offerings based on what fruit is available. Taiwanese shaved ice customers understand that strawberry shaved ice and mango shaved ice are not available year round. Other toppings that are not seasonal such as condensed milk or sugar water are always available.

Hawaiian Shaved Ice vs. Tawainese Shaved Ice: The Takeaway

Whether you prefer Hawaiian shaved ice flavored with syrup or the abundance of toppings available with Taiwanese shaved ice, both of these shaved ice treats are perfect for the hot summer months.