When the summer sun blazes, there’s nothing quite like treating yourself to a cool, refreshing dessert. That’s where Mango Bingsu comes in, a delightful Korean classic that transforms fluffy shaved ice into a tropical escape. The first time I indulged in this airy concoction, I was immediately captivated by the vibrant, juicy mango and the sweetness of creamy vanilla ice cream cascading over the ice like a soft summer rain.
This versatile treat allows you to customize every element, whether you prefer the richness of sweetened condensed milk or a lighter approach with agave syrup. Perfect for gatherings or simply treating yourself after a long day, each spoonful offers a burst of fruity freshness that feels almost ethereal. Join me in creating this mesmerizing Mango Bingsu, and let’s make this summer unforgettable!
Why Is Mango Bingsu the Perfect Summer Dessert?
Refreshing and Light: Unlike heavier desserts, Mango Bingsu offers a delightful, airy texture that’s perfect for hot summer days.
Versatile Customization: With options to use various toppings and sweeteners, you can tailor it to your taste or dietary needs.
Easy to Prepare: Even if you’re not a pro in the kitchen, this recipe is straightforward; anyone can master the art of shaved ice!
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether enjoyed solo or served at a gathering, this dessert always garners rave reviews, making it a hit with family and friends.
Cultural Experience: Immerse yourself in a delicious piece of Korean culinary tradition that elevates your dessert game.
Feeling adventurous? Try adding different fruits or non-dairy options for a unique twist, just like in our variation ideas!
Mango Bingsu Ingredients
For the Shaved Ice
• Milk (400 ml) – Provides a creamy base; use coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
• Sweetened Condensed Milk (2 tbsp) – Adds richness and sweetness; substitute with agave syrup for a lighter option.
For the Toppings
• Vanilla Ice Cream (1 scoop) – Complements the dish with creaminess; opt for a non-dairy ice cream for a vegan alternative.
• Fresh or Frozen Mango (200 g), diced – The star of the show, adding fresh flavor; choose ripe mango for the best taste.
• Toasted Almonds (optional) – Adds a delightful crunch; can be omitted for a nut-free dessert.
For the Mango Coulis
• Fresh or Frozen Mango (250 g), chopped – Essential for a flavorful sauce; use the ripest mango available.
• Sugar (1 tbsp) – Sweetens the coulis; adjust based on the natural sweetness of the mango.
• Lemon Juice (a few drops) – Balances sweetness with acidity; essential for a well-rounded flavor.
• Water (60 ml) – Helps achieve the right consistency for the sauce.
Let’s dive into this refreshing Mango Bingsu and make summer your delightful, cooling experience!
How to Make Mango Bingsu
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Prepare the Mango Coulis: Blend the fresh or frozen mango, sugar, lemon juice, and water until smooth. Cook over medium heat for 3-4 minutes until the sugar dissolves, then cool in the fridge for at least 1 hour.
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Make Shaved Ice: In a mixing bowl, combine the milk and sweetened condensed milk. Pour the mixture into a zip-top plastic bag, press to flatten, and freeze for at least 5 hours or overnight for the best texture.
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Shave Ice: Once frozen, break the ice into chunks and either pound them with a rolling pin or use a shaved ice machine for a fluffy consistency that resembles snow.
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Assemble: In a large bowl, layer the fluffy shaved ice, add the diced mango on top, scoop in a scoop of vanilla ice cream, drizzle generously with mango coulis, and finish off with optional sweetened condensed milk and toasted almonds if desired.
Optional: Serve in chilled bowls for an extra refreshing touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
Mango Bingsu is an ideal treat for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during the busy summer months! You can prepare the mango coulis and the base for the shaved ice up to 24 hours in advance. To make the coulis, blend and cook the mango, then refrigerate in an airtight container for enhanced flavor. For the shaved ice, mix the milk and sweetened condensed milk, pour into a zip-top bag, and freeze. When you’re ready to serve, simply shave the frozen ice, layer with fresh mango, and add a scoop of ice cream along with the cooled coulis. This way, you’ll enjoy restaurant-quality Mango Bingsu with minimal effort!
Expert Tips for Mango Bingsu
- Fresh Ingredients: Use ripe mango for the best flavor. Overripe mango can taste fermenty, which diminishes the refreshing quality of your Mango Bingsu.
- Texture Control: Shave the ice just before serving to maintain its fluffy texture. Pre-made shaved ice can become watery and lose its appeal.
- Chill Bowls: Serve in chilled bowls to keep the Mango Bingsu cool for longer. It enhances the overall experience and freshness of this delightful dessert.
- Customization Ideas: Don’t hesitate to experiment with toppings! Try berries, coconut flakes, or even a drizzle of chocolate for a fun twist on your Mango Bingsu.
- Avoid Overmixing: When preparing the coulis, blend just until smooth. Overmixing can introduce too much air, affecting the coulis’s silky consistency.
- Mind the Sweetness: Taste your mango before adding sugar to the coulis. Some mangoes are sweeter than others, and adjusting sweetness ensures a perfectly balanced Mango Bingsu.
How to Store and Freeze Mango Bingsu
Fridge: Store leftover mango coulis in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain its freshness and flavor.
Freezer: It’s best to freeze only the mango pieces for 2-3 months; avoid freezing the assembled bingsu, as it’s best enjoyed fresh with the perfect fluffy texture.
Reheating: If you reheated the mango coulis, do so gently on low heat, stirring until warmed through. Pair it with freshly shaved ice topped with fresh mango for the ultimate experience.
Mango Bingsu Variations
Feel free to get creative and put your personal spin on this refreshing dessert!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute milk with coconut milk for a delicious vegan version that keeps the creamy essence.
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Agave Sweetener: Use agave syrup instead of sweetened condensed milk for a lighter touch, catering to health-conscious fans.
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Fruit Medley: Experiment with other fruits like strawberries, kiwi, or even peaches for an exciting twist on flavor and freshness.
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Nut-Free: Simply omit the toasted almonds for a safe option that satisfies nut allergies while still being delightful.
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Extra Creamy: Swap in whipped cream for an ultra-rich topping that’ll make your Mango Bingsu even more indulgent.
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Add a Spice Kick: Mix in a hint of cayenne or chili powder for those who like a little heat with their sweet, creating a sophisticated balance.
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Chocolate Drizzle: A chocolate sauce can add an unexpected layer of flavor that pairs surprisingly well with mango’s sweetness.
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Frozen Yogurt: Use frozen yogurt instead of ice cream for a tangy twist that also amps up the creaminess while keeping it light.
Let your taste buds guide you as you create your own unique version of Mango Bingsu!
What to Serve with Mango Bingsu?
Dive into summer bliss with harmonious accompaniments that elevate each delightful spoonful of this Korean dessert.
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Coconut Sticky Rice: The creamy and slightly sweet flavors of coconut sticky rice contrast beautifully with the refreshing mango and icy texture of Bingsu.
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Fruit Salad: A mix of tropical fruits like pineapple, kiwi, and berries adds vibrant color and additional freshness to the dessert experience.
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Green Tea: The subtle bitterness of green tea balances the sweetness of Mango Bingsu while providing a calming, soothing companion.
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Korean Melon Ice Chunks: Known as “chancer,” these icy bites offer a playful texture and a hint of natural sweetness, embodying the spirit of summer.
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Toasted Coconut Flakes: Sprinkling these crunchy flakes on top gives an irresistible tropical crunch that complements the mango’s fruity flair, enhancing each bite.
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Matcha Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy, slightly bitter matcha ice cream works seamlessly with the fruity notes of Mango Bingsu, creating a delightful flavor contrast.
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Chilled Lemonade: The citrus zing from a refreshing glass of lemonade cuts through the sweetness, providing a light and invigorating pairing for those sun-soaked days.
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Almond Cookies: Crisp and nutty almond cookies create a perfect textural contrast, adding a satisfying crunch alongside the airy Bingsu.
Enjoy these pairings and turn your Mango Bingsu into a delightful summer feast!
Mango Bingsu Recipe FAQs
What type of mango should I use for best flavor?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, choose ripe mangoes that are slightly soft to the touch and emit a sweet aroma. Avoid those with dark spots all over, as this indicates over-ripeness. If fresh mangoes aren’t available, frozen mango can be a convenient alternative.
How long can I store the leftover mango coulis?
You can store the leftover mango coulis in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure to let it cool completely before sealing. It’s best enjoyed fresh, but a few days in the fridge will keep the flavors intact!
Can I freeze the assembled Mango Bingsu?
Not recommended! The assembled Mango Bingsu is best enjoyed fresh, as freezing can alter its delightful fluffy texture. However, you can freeze diced mango for 2-3 months if you need to prepare in advance. Just remember to shave the ice and prepare the coulis fresh!
What if my shaved ice turns out too hard?
Very! If your shaved ice comes out too hard, that may be due to freezing time or method. Aim for at least 5 hours but not more than 24. If using a bag, keep the mixture flat as it freezes. If it’s too solid, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before shaving.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Definitely! If you or your guests have nut allergies, you can simply omit the toasted almonds. For a dairy-free version, substitute regular milk with coconut milk and use non-dairy ice cream. Always check labels for added allergens, especially in the sweetened condensed milk or any store-bought ingredients.
How can I make my Mango Bingsu more visually appealing?
The more the merrier! You can enhance the visual appeal by layering colorful fruits like strawberries or kiwi alongside the mango. Drizzle extra mango coulis artistically over the top before serving and garnish with mint leaves for a refreshing touch!
Mango Bingsu Magic: Your Ultimate Summer Chill Treat
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Mango Coulis: Blend the fresh or frozen mango, sugar, lemon juice, and water until smooth. Cook over medium heat for 3-4 minutes until the sugar dissolves, then cool in the fridge for at least 1 hour.
- Make Shaved Ice: In a mixing bowl, combine the milk and sweetened condensed milk. Pour the mixture into a zip-top plastic bag, press to flatten, and freeze for at least 5 hours or overnight for the best texture.
- Shave Ice: Once frozen, break the ice into chunks and either pound them with a rolling pin or use a shaved ice machine for a fluffy consistency that resembles snow.
- Assemble: In a large bowl, layer the fluffy shaved ice, add the diced mango on top, scoop in a scoop of vanilla ice cream, drizzle generously with mango coulis, and finish off with optional sweetened condensed milk and toasted almonds if desired.