Hong Kong's Mango Dessert Soup Offers an Exquisite Way to Savor Ripened Mangoes
In the heart of Hong Kong, nestled among the bustling streets, lies a gem of a restaurant called Kam Wah Cafe. This establishment holds a special place in my heart, as it was a frequent stop during my childhood, where I would indulge in the delightful dessert known as Mango Pomelo Sago.
Mango Pomelo Sago, or Yeung Zi Gum Lo in its original Cantonese name, is a refreshing dessert soup that transports you to a world of tropical flavours. The recipe, a poetic homage to Guanyin, the goddess of mercy in Chinese mythology, consists of three chilled mangos, one to two segments of peeled pomelo or grapefruit, 3/4 cup plus 1 tablespoon of coconut milk, evaporated milk, rock sugar or granulated sugar, and approximately 1/4 cup of sago.
The sago, mini tapioca pearls, are cooked for ten minutes, allowed to soak for another ten minutes, and then drained. The mango puree, sago, mango cubes, and pomelo are combined in the final step, with a generous drizzle of coconut and evaporated milk, and a touch of the melted sugar.
However, the experience of enjoying Mango Pomelo Sago in Kam Wah Cafe was not just about the dessert. The vibrant red and gold decor of the dim sum restaurants, the dim sum carts pushed by aunties, and the adults hidden from my view due to their seating positions, all added to the charm of these brunches.
Sadly, Mango Pomelo Sago is not easy to find in the United States unless one lives near a Chinatown. Its variations may differ from the traditional version in Hong Kong. But for me, every spoonful of this dessert soup brings back memories of my childhood, making it my favourite dessert from these brunches.
Dessert soups, such as Mango Pomelo Sago, are inspired by the Cantonese preference for herbal soups, a quintessential element of Cantonese cuisine. They offer a refreshing contrast to the rich and savoury dim sum dishes, providing a perfect ending to a meal.
So, if you ever find yourself in Hong Kong, do visit Kam Wah Cafe and try their Mango Pomelo Sago. It's more than just a dessert; it's a taste of tradition, a piece of my childhood, and a testament to the beauty of Cantonese cuisine.
