Growing up, this was always something my parents bought for me at Asian supermarkets. Egg-custard tarts include a puff pastry outer layer with a jelly-like egg custard in the middle. It’s a wonder dessert to have at any house parties, large family gatherings or potlucks.
Growing up as a Chinese-American, I’ve had my fair share of Asian desserts.Instead of grocery shopping at the traditional American supermarkets such as Giant or Shoppers, my family usually shops at any local Asian grocery store in the area. While shopping in these Asian grocery stores, I would find myself roaming each aisle, in search of the different kinds of Asian desserts I grew up eating and loving.
Below, I’ve compiled a list of some of my favorite Asian desserts. Of course, this is by no means a comprehensive list of delicious Asian desserts, as the sheer number of desserts in Asia is overwhelming. In no particular order, here are some Asian desserts you need to try in your lifetime:
1. Mochi Ice Cream
It’s cold. It’s chewy. It’s absolutely delicious. Originating from Japan, pick it up at any local Asian grocery store.
2. Fried Sesame Balls
These little sesame balls are chewy on the outside, and extremely sweet on the inside. Try to get homemade sesame balls that are right out of the oven. The warmth of the sesame balls will slowly melt in your mouth, and the taste is truly indescribable.
3. Bingsoo
Bingsoo is a combination of shaved ice and ice cream, covered by all kinds of different toppings such as fruit, condensed milk, mochi, etc. A popular Korean dessert, you can find this at any Korean dessert or café place. Not only is it Instagram worthy, it’s always an amazing dessert to try on a hot summer day.
4. Shibuya Honey Toast
Many places also place ice cream and fruits on top. Who knew toast could be so delicious?5. Bubble Tea
This is always a classic. Bubble tea can come in many different flavors, ranging from fruity flavors, such as strawberry and mango, to traditional tea flavors, such as Thai Tea and Green Tea. The most defining characteristic of bubble tea is the small, black tapioca pearls that you suck up as you drink.
6. Mango Sticky Rice
A great addition to a meal, you can get this dessert at any Thai restaurant. It’s a traditional dessert made from rice, mango and coconut milk, and it’s truly an experience you don’t want to miss out on.
7. Egg-Custard Tart
Growing up, this was always something my parents bought for me at Asian supermarkets. Egg-custard tarts include a puff pastry outer layer with a jelly-like egg custard in the middle. It’s a wonderful dessert to have at any house parties, large family gatherings or potlucks.