ABC ice in English literally means "mixed ice." It is an acronym for the Malay term air batu campur.
Understanding ABC: Air Batu Campur
The term "ABC" stands for Air Batu Campur, a Malay phrase that directly translates to "mixed ice." This name perfectly describes the dessert's nature, as it typically consists of shaved ice mixed with various sweet ingredients.
Ais Kacang: Another Name for the Same Delight
While "ABC" is a widely recognized acronym, this popular dessert is also commonly known as Ais Kacang.
- Ais Kacang (Malay pronunciation: [aɪs ˈkatʃaŋ]) literally translates to "bean ice" in English. This highlights one of its traditional key ingredients: sweet red beans.
What is This Dessert?
ABC or Ais Kacang is a beloved Malaysian dessert, also very popular in neighboring countries. It is a refreshing treat, especially in warm climates.
| Term | Original Language | English Meaning | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| ABC | (Acronym for Air Batu Campur) | Mixed Ice | Popular acronym for the dessert |
| Air Batu Campur | Malay | Mixed Ice | Literal translation |
| Ais Kacang | Malay | Bean Ice | Another common name for the dessert |
Key Characteristics:
- Shaved Ice Base: The foundation of ABC is finely shaved ice.
- Diverse Toppings: It features a wide array of toppings, often including:
- Sweet red beans
- Creamed corn
- Grass jelly
- Attap chee (palm seeds)
- Agar-agar (jelly cubes)
- Peanuts
- Syrups and Milk: Drizzled with colorful syrups (like rose or sarsi syrup), condensed milk, and sometimes Gula Melaka (palm sugar syrup).
Where is it Common?
This delightful dessert is a staple in:
- Malaysia
- Singapore (where it is often specifically called ice kachang)
- Brunei
