ice powder

How to Make Bingfen: A Comprehensive Guide

Bingfen, a beloved Chinese summer dessert, is a silky, jelly-like treat served chilled, topped with sweet and savory ingredients. Making it at home is simple and customizable. Here’s a step-by-step guide.

First, prepare the base. Mix 2 tablespoons of bingfen powder (mung bean starch or pea starch) with 100ml cold water until smooth. In a pot, bring 500ml of water to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Slowly pour the starch mixture into the water, stirring constantly. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the mixture thickens into a translucent paste. Immediately pour it into a shallow container, let it cool, then refrigerate for 1-2 hours until set.

Once firm, cut the jelly into cubes. For toppings, get creative! Drizzle with brown sugar syrup, add crushed peanuts, dried fruits (like goji berries), fresh fruit chunks (mango, strawberry), or chewy tapioca pearls. For a savory twist, sprinkle with sesame seeds, chili oil, or crushed Sichuan peppercorns.

Bingfen is versatile—adjust sweetness to your taste and experiment with toppings. It’s a refreshing, low-effort dessert perfect for hot days. Enjoy this versatile treat and savor its cool, smooth texture in every bite!