Name: Iced Grass Jelly Cooler
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 500 g Grass jelly (canned or fresh block); 150 g Dark brown sugar or Gula Melaka; 2 cups Water; 2 pieces Pandan leaves, tied in a knot; 4 cups Crushed ice

"This Iced Grass Jelly Cooler is the ultimate thirst-quencher for hot summer days, featuring cubes of silky, herbal grass jelly submerged in a fragrant brown sugar and pandan-infused syrup. Its unique cooling properties and satisfying texture make it a beloved staple in Southeast Asian dessert culture."

Ingredients

Qty	Item
500 g 500 g	Grass jelly (canned or fresh block)
150 g 150 g	Dark brown sugar or Gula Melaka
2 cups 480 ml	Water
2 pieces 2 pieces	Pandan leaves, tied in a knot
4 cups 800 g	Crushed ice

How to Make Iced Grass Jelly Cooler

In a small saucepan, combine the dark brown sugar, water, and pandan leaves. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce to a simmer for 5-8 minutes until the sugar has completely dissolved and the syrup is slightly thickened. Remove from heat and let it cool completely.

Remove the grass jelly from its packaging and rinse gently under cold water. Pat dry with a paper towel.

Slice the grass jelly into 1-cm cubes or use a coarse grater to create long, thin strands for a different texture.

Divide the diced or grated grass jelly equally among four tall glasses.

Fill each glass with crushed ice or ice cubes.

Remove the pandan leaves from the cooled syrup and pour the syrup over the ice and jelly.

Stir well to combine and serve immediately while chilled.

·
For a creamier version, add a splash of evaporated milk or soy milk to the glass before serving.
·
Using Gula Melaka (Malaysian palm sugar) instead of regular brown sugar adds a much deeper, smoky caramel note to the drink.
·
You can add basil seeds (sabja) or attap seeds to add more textural variety to the cooler.
·
Ensure the syrup is completely cold before pouring over the ice to prevent the ice from melting too quickly and diluting the flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is grass jelly made of?

Grass jelly is made from the oxidized stalks and leaves of the Platostoma palustre plant, a member of the mint family, which are boiled with starch to create a jelly-like consistency.

Is grass jelly vegan?

Yes, grass jelly is plant-based and vegan-friendly as it uses plant extracts and starch for gelling rather than gelatin.

How long can I store the grass jelly syrup?

The brown sugar syrup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

Can I use store-bought grass jelly powder?

Yes, you can prepare the jelly using powder according to the package instructions, let it set in the fridge, and then proceed with the recipe.

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