As the scorching summer sun blankets the Philippines, there’s no better way to beat the heat than indulging in refreshing drinks and desserts. From icy beverages to delectable treats, the Filipino culinary scene offers a myriad of options to keep you cool and satisfied during the hottest months. Here, we explore seven must-try refreshments that will tantalize your taste buds and provide sweet relief from the summer heat.
Halo-Halo
No list of Filipino summer treats would be complete without mentioning the iconic halo-halo. Translating to “mix-mix” in English, this beloved dessert is a delightful medley of shaved ice, sweetened fruits, jellies, beans, and leche flan, topped with evaporated milk and a scoop of ice cream. Furthermore each spoonful offers a burst of flavors and textures, making it the perfect antidote to the sweltering weather.
Buko Pandan
Originating from the province of Laguna, buko pandan is a popular Filipino dessert made with young coconut meat, pandan-flavored jelly cubes, and sweetened condensed milk. Served chilled, this creamy and fragrant dessert is a favorite during summer gatherings and celebrations. Its light and refreshing taste make it an ideal choice for cooling down on a hot day.
Sago’t Gulaman
A classic Filipino refreshment, sago’t gulaman combines tapioca pearls (sago) and agar jelly (gulaman) in a sweetened syrup infused with flavors like pandan or brown sugar. Often served over ice, this simple yet satisfying drink is a staple in street food stalls and eateries across the country. Its thirst-quenching properties make it a popular choice for beating the summer heat.
Mango Shake
With the Philippines being known for its sweet and succulent mangoes, it’s no surprise that mango shake is a favorite summer indulgence. Moreover blended with ripe mangoes, crushed ice, and milk, this luscious beverage delivers a tropical burst of flavor. Whether enjoyed plain or with a dollop of whipped cream on top, mango shake is sure to cool you down on a sweltering day.
Mais Con Yelo
A delightful combination of sweet corn kernels, shaved ice, evaporated milk, and sugar, mais con yelo is a refreshing treat that is both comforting and satisfying. Originating from the Filipino word for corn (mais) and ice (yelo), this chilled dessert is a popular street food offering during the summer months. Its sweet and creamy taste makes it a hit among both children and adults alike.
Calamansi Juice
Indulge in the tangy zest of calamansi juice, a quintessential Filipino drink, perfect for hot days. Crafted from freshly squeezed calamansi, water, and sugar, it perfectly balances sweet and sour flavors.Enjoyed ice-cold, calamansi juice provides a zesty burst of flavor that is sure to invigorate your senses.
Ice Scramble
A childhood favorite for many Filipinos, ice scramble is a colorful and delightful dessert that is sure to evoke fond memories of summer days gone by. Added with shaved ice, powdered milk, sugar, and flavored syrups, this treat dazzles with marshmallows, chocolate sprinkles, and candies.Served in plastic cups or bowls, ice scramble is a fun and nostalgic way to cool off during the hot summer months.
From the creamy indulgence of halo-halo to the tangy freshness of calamansi juice, these seven refreshing drinks and desserts offer a taste of summer in the Philippines like no other. Whether you’re craving something sweet, fruity, or creamy, these cool delights are sure to satisfy your cravings and keep you feeling refreshed all season long. So beat the heat and treat yourself to these irresistible treats that are guaranteed to make your summer a little sweeter.
