A Sweet Recipe: Mango Ice Candy

Story:

Ice candy is just another term for a fruity popsicle. Given the heat and humidity of the Philippines, ice candy is rampant and can be found at sari-sari (variety) stores, carinderias (eateries) and even on street corners. Ice candy is easy to make and very economical, especially when made in large batches. After a long day of sightseeing around Bohol, staff members from CEVI and I decided to cool off by preparing frozen treats for ourselves. It was a sweet way to end our day!

Recipe:

Prep Time: 15-20 minutes, Yield: 15 servings

Ingredients:

    * 2 cans (500 ml) evaporated milk

    * 3 mangoes or seasonal fruit of your choice

    * 1 can (168 ml) condensed milk

    * approximately 1.5 cups water

    * approximately 1 tablespoon sugar

    * 15, 1 ¾ x 10 plastic ice candy bags

Preparation:

1.     If you have a blender, slice the fruit into large pieces and chop to your liking. If you do not have a blender, slice the mangoes into very small pieces with a sharp knife. Scoop fruit into large bowl.

2.     Mix fruit, evaporated milk and condensed milk in a large bowl.

3.     Slowly add water and sugar – stir till mixture is even and taste. You may add more/or less water and sugar till the mix is to your liking.

4.     Place a funnel at the opening of the ice candy bag, holding the casing tightly so that the mixture does not spill out. Fill the ice candy bags to your desired height, but be sure to keep 6-7 cm (about 4 fingers across) at the top to make room for the knot.

5.     Make a secure knot at the top of each bag to properly seal. Twist the plastic just above the point where the mixture levels off. As you pinch the twisted plastic with your thumb and forefinger, wrap the top part over your thumb and tuck it under, pulling it through the loop. Make certain that the knot is tight to prevent bags from leaking.

6.     Once all your ice candy bags are filled, rinse them off with water to remove excess mixture. Then lay them on a flat surface in the freezer till fully set.

Serve when you feel like enjoying something sweet or would like to cool off from the heat!

Note: If you prefer to make smaller ice candies, you can purchase smaller plastic bags. This recipe makes about 15 large ice candies.