Ais Kacang
Global • Eggetarian
About Ais Kacang
Shaved ice with beans, jelly, and syrup
How to Make Ais Kacang (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Ais Kacang, also known as 'ABC' (Air Batu Campur), is Malaysia’s iconic shaved ice dessert, cherished for its vibrant colors and delightful mix of textures. Originating from local hawker stalls, this treat embodies Malaysia’s multicultural heritage by blending ingredients popular among Malay, Chinese, and Indian communities. Each bowl is a celebration of tropical flavors—think sweetened red beans, corn, grass jelly, and refreshing santan (coconut milk) poured over finely shaved ice. The combination creates a cooling, satisfying dessert, perfect for hot Malaysian afternoons. Ais Kacang is not only delicious but visually stunning, often topped with rose syrup and pandan-infused palm sugar (gula Melaka). It’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser during festive seasons and family gatherings. Traditionally high in sugar, our healthy version reduces calories without sacrificing authentic taste, using natural sweeteners and fresh ingredients. Savoring Ais Kacang is a unique Malaysian experience, bringing together flavors from Penang street stalls to KL night markets, reflecting the nation’s rich culinary tapestry.
Ingredients(for 1 medium bowl per person)
- 2 cups Shaved ice (Air batu halus)
- 1/2 cup Cooked red beans (Kacang merah)
- 1/4 cup Sweet corn kernels (Jagung manis)
- 1/4 cup Grass jelly (Cincau)
- 2 tbsp Pandan syrup (Sirap pandan, homemade preferred)
- 2 tbsp Gula Melaka syrup (Palm sugar syrup)
- 3 tbsp Low-fat santan (coconut milk) (Santan rendah lemak)
- 1 tbsp Roasted peanuts (Kacang tanah) - optional
- 1/4 cup Chopped fresh fruit (Mango, jackfruit or papaya) - optional
- 1 tbsp Low-calorie condensed milk (Susu pekat rendah kalori) - optional
Instructions
- 1
Prepare all toppings: cook red beans until soft, slice grass jelly, roast peanuts, and chop any fresh fruit.
5 minutes
Prepare toppings ahead for easy assembly.
- 2
Make pandan syrup by simmering pandan leaves with water and a natural sweetener until fragrant and slightly thickened.
10 minutes
Use fresh pandan leaves for authentic aroma.
- 3
Shave ice using an ice shaver or blender until fine and fluffy. Mound shaved ice into serving bowls.
5 minutes
Fine ice gives a smoother texture and better absorption of flavors.
- 4
Arrange toppings: layer cooked red beans, sweet corn, grass jelly, and fresh fruit over the ice.
3 minutes
Balance colors and textures for visual appeal.
Why This Dish is Healthy
Ais Kacang can be a nutritious dessert when prepared mindfully. By swapping traditional syrups for natural sweeteners and adding fresh ingredients, this recipe maintains authentic Malaysian taste with fewer calories and less sugar. The inclusion of beans, nuts, and fruit delivers essential nutrients and fiber, supporting healthy digestion and satiety. Enjoying Ais Kacang in moderation is a smart choice for those tracking macros or seeking a lighter treat.
This healthy Ais Kacang recipe provides balanced macros with 250 calories, 4g protein, 55g carbohydrates, and only 5g fat per serving. Red beans and peanuts add plant-based protein, while corn and fruit contribute fiber, vitamins, and minerals like potassium and vitamin C. Using low-fat santan and natural sweeteners reduces saturated fat and sugar, making it suitable for calorie-conscious diets. Grass jelly offers antioxidants and aids digestion, while fresh fruit boosts overall nutrient density.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: Freeze serving bowls for extra chill and slower melting.
- 💡Tip 2: For smoother ice, use filtered water when freezing.
- 💡Tip 3: Adjust sweetness by diluting syrups if desired.
Storage & Serving
Ais Kacang is best served fresh. Toppings like red beans and syrups can be refrigerated up to 2 days. Shaved ice should be prepared just before serving. Reassemble only when ready to eat.
Best served: Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 250.0 kcal |
| Protein | 4.0 g |
| Carbohydrates | 55.0 g |
| Total Fat | 5.0 g |
| Fiber | 3.0 g |
| Sugars | 24.0 g |
| Sodium | 15.0 mg |
| Potassium | 90.0 mg |
| Cholesterol | 0.0 mg |
| Vitamin A | 10.0 IU |
| Vitamin C | 2.0 mg |
| Calcium | 15.0 mg |
| Iron | 0.3 mg |
| Magnesium | 8.0 mg |
| Zinc | 0.1 mg |
| Phosphorus | 12.0 mg |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 IU |
| Vitamin B1 (Thiamine) | 0.0 mg |
| Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin) | 0.0 mg |
| Vitamin B3 (Niacin) | 0.1 mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.0 mg |
| Vitamin B12 | 0.0 µg |
| Folate | 4.0 µg |
