A Cool Journey Across Cultures and Borders
BY RAJESH SHAH, Ex-Vice President Havmor-Lotte
It’s a herculean task to identify the top 10 ice cream flavours in the world. Tons of data, reports, and survey findings are available online with varied considerations and views. For this write-up, I have relied on combinations of such inputs besides my personal preferences, sales pointers, some uniqueness, and general perceptions at our disposal.
The compilation below is based on some of the following parameters:
Consumer Preferences
Sales Parameters
Uniqueness in terms of USP
Regional heroes
The World’s Top 10 Ice Creams:
Let’s dwell on the world’s top 10 ice creams from different countries. To my utter surprise, I found none of the Indian flavours on this list. Personally, I find it quite shocking. The list below covers countries like the USA, UK, Japan, Turkey, and Italy.
I am of the view that our traditional wedding special ice cream menu will beat any of the top-class ice cream hands down. The taste and mouthfeel of Indian ice cream are unbeatable and unmatchable. During my umpteen visits to Canada, I have always missed the unbeatable taste of Indian ice cream.
Clotted Cream Ice Cream (CORNWALL, England)
Clotted cream Ice cream hails from Cornwall, England, and is a traditional British treat. It features the rich and velvety consistency of Cornish clotted cream, combined with whole milk and eggs. The unique flavour and decadence of this ice cream make it a favourite across the United Kingdom. You might even find a dollop of clotted cream on top of your scoops!
Dondurma (Turkey)
Turkish Dondurma, originating from Maraş, boasts a chewy texture and remarkable resistance to melting. The secret lies in two thickening agents: Arab gum (mastic resin) and Salep (made from the root of the early purple orchid). In Kahramanmaraş, it’s often called “Kesme Dondurma,” and you’ll need a knife and fork to savour its unique consistency.
Frozen Custard (Wisconsin, USA)
Frozen custard, born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin (the “Custard Capital of the World”), is a gourmet delight. Unlike regular ice cream, it contains less air, resulting in a thick, dense custard bursting with flavour. Fans argue that its soft yet heavy consistency makes it even better than ice cream.
4. Gelato (Italy)
Gelato, Italy’s gift to frozen desserts, is denser and creamier than regular ice cream. It’s churned at a slower speed, resulting in less air incorporation. The intense flavours and silky texture make gelato a beloved treat worldwide.
5. Matcha Ice Cream (Japan)
Matcha (green tea) Japan’s matcha ice cream combines the earthy, vibrant flavour of matcha with the creaminess of milk. It’s a must-try for tea enthusiasts.
6. Stracciatella (Italy)
Stracciatella, an Italian classic, features delicate vanilla gelato with fine chocolate shavings. The contrast of smoothness and crunch is irresistible.
7. Mochi Ice Cream (Japan)
Mochi (sweet rice cake) wraps a scoop of ice cream in a chewy mochi shell. It’s a delightful fusion of textures and flavours.
8. Cherry Garcia (USA)
Ben & Jerry’s Cherry Garcia, named after Grateful Dead’s Jerry Garcia, combines sweet cherry ice cream with chunks of dark chocolate and real cherries.
9. Pistachio Gelato (Italy)
Creamy pistachio gelato celebrates the nutty goodness of roasted pistachios. It’s a favourite in gelaterias worldwide.
10. Raspberry Ripple (UK)
Raspberry ripple swirls vibrant raspberry sauce through smooth vanilla ice cream, creating a delightful contrast.
Whether you’re savouring clotted cream in Cornwall or indulging in matcha in Japan, ice cream transcends borders, bringing joy to taste buds everywhere. So go ahead, take a scoop, and let the world melt away!
The World’s Top 10 Ice Cream Flavours:
Let’s embark on a delightful journey through the top 10 ice cream flavours that tantalize taste buds and evoke sweet memories. I am happy to have found most of these flavours.
In India, traditional regional flavours served on the occasion of a marriage can definitely compete with the best in the world. Nutty and seasonal fruit-based ice creams loaded with kesar, traditional kulfis, and a few novelty flavours such as Paan, Rasmalai, etc. truly represent Indian ice cream flavours and would be rated nothing less than world-class.
1. Chocolate Ice Cream
The timeless classic, chocolate ice cream, needs no introduction. Velvety, rich, and indulgent, it satisfies cocoa cravings with every spoonful. Whether it’s a simple scoop or part of a decadent sundae, chocolate ice cream remains an eternal favourite.
2. Vanilla Ice Cream
Vanilla, often considered plain, is anything, but its simplicity allows the pure flavour of Madagascar or Tahitian vanilla beans to shine. Pair it with warm pie, drizzle it with caramel, or enjoy it solo—the versatility of vanilla knows no bounds.
3. Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream
Cool, refreshing mint meets bittersweet chocolate chips. This harmonious blend balances sweetness and freshness. It’s like a winter breeze on your taste buds, leaving you craving more.
4. Cookie Dough Ice Cream
Who can resist chunks of raw cookie dough nestled in creamy ice cream? Cookie dough ice cream combines childhood nostalgia with the joy of indulging in forbidden cookie batter. It’s a guilty pleasure worth every bite.
5. Buttered Pecan Ice Cream
Buttery, nutty, and slightly salty, buttered pecan ice cream celebrates the earthy flavour of toasted pecans. The crunch of the nuts against the smooth base creates a delightful contrast.
6. Neapolitan Ice Cream
Why choose one flavour when you can have three? Neapolitan offers a trifecta of vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry in perfect harmony. It’s the ultimate compromise for indecisive ice cream lovers.
7. Banana Ice Cream
Creamy banana Ice Cream captures the essence of ripe bananas. It’s like enjoying a frozen banana split without the fuss. Top it with caramel sauce or crushed nuts for extra flair.
8. Toffee Ice Cream
Toffee bits swirled into velvety ice cream create a symphony of sweet and crunchy. The caramel undertones make each spoonful a delightful surprise.
9. Caramel Ice Cream
Caramel lovers rejoice! Silky caramel ice cream dances between sweet and slightly burnt flavours. It’s like savouring a caramel latte in frozen form.
10. Dark Chocolate Ice Cream
For true chocoholics, dark chocolate ice cream is a revelation. Intense cocoa notes, a touch of bitterness, and a luxurious mouthfeel make it a sophisticated choice.
Whether you’re strolling along the Seine in Paris, savouring gelato in Rome, or enjoying a scoop at your local parlour, ice cream unites us all. So next time you indulge, remember that you are part of a global celebration—one spoonful at a time.
Remember, ice cream knows no borders—it’s a universal delight that brings joy to people across cultures. So, whether you’re indulging in a scoop from a local parlour or savouring a brick at home, celebrate the sweet moments!