Lately, torched marshmallow ice cream has caught the attention of Hanoi's youth. The ice cream is wrapped in a layer of marshmallow and torched until it achieves a golden brown color on all sides.
In Hanoi, only a few places offer the treat, and one of the popular spots is Kho Kho at 5 Hang Mam Street, Hoan Kiem District, owned by Hoang Mai Phuong.
Phuong, who opened a shop specializing in cakes and marshmallows eight years ago, encountered torched Korean marshmallow ice cream during a trip to Busan, Korea. There, she enjoyed it for 4,000 won ($3).
Intrigued by its simplicity and flavor, Phuong connected with a Korean supplier, introducing the dessert to her shop just three weeks ago. The treat has since gained instant popularity that is rapidly spreading.
The shop imports the ice cream from a Korean company, ensuring a 90% similarity to the original Korean flavor, according to Phuong.
Each ice cream tray contains 12 rectangular pieces, measuring about 5 x 6 centimeters, all wrapped in a layer of marshmallow. There are six flavors which are matcha, vanilla, coconut latte, milk strawberries, sea salt and cheese, and dark chocolate.
To prepare the torched marshmallow ice cream, Phuong follows the instructions provided by the ice cream brand. She coats the outer layer with a kind of flour coating, then adds a thin layer of water for a shiny and smooth finish.
The final step involves torching all sides, transforming the marshmallow into a golden brown cube with a sweet aroma.
The torched marshmallow layer provides a light crunch similar to burnt sugar, with a spongy and creamy candy underneath. When diners then bite through the still-warm marshmallow layer, they instantly experience the cold ice cream filling.
The contrast between the hot outer layer and the cool ice cream inside creates a unique flavor. To balance the sweetness, Phuong offers complimentary tea. Each ice cream costs VND50,000 ($2).
Le Phuong Anh, a university student in Hanoi, discovered the ice cream through social networks.
"The matcha ice cream inside is refreshing, toning down the sweetness of the marshmallow. The temperature is just right, not too hot or too cold, making it perfect to eat during winter without causing tooth sensitivity," Phuong Anh said.
The shop sells an average of 200 to 300 ice creams daily, with weekend numbers surging to nearly 400 customers. Customers coming to the shop are mostly young people, who are curious about trending dishes on social media.
Typically crowded between 7 p.m. and 9 p.m., the shop also offers other snacks like straight marshmallows and salted egg sponge cakes.
However, the space has limited seating indoors and outdoors, along with a narrow parking area, and can only allow for a maximum of about 30 customers at a time.
