Grass Jelly Drink

AI Gourmet Analysis

---

Overview

Grass Jelly Drink is a traditional herbal beverage widely distributed in East and Southeast Asia. Its main ingredient is grass jelly (English name: Grass Jelly; scientific name: Mesona chinensis), and it is especially popular in countries such as China, Taiwan, Malaysia, Singapore, Vietnam, and Thailand. In Singapore, where various food cultures intertwine due to its multi-ethnic society, grass jelly drink is one of the beverages that can be easily purchased at hawker centers, cafes, and chain restaurants. Grass jelly drink is typically made by dissolving grass jelly into cold water, syrup, or brown sugar syrup, resulting in a unique black or deep brown appearance.

History and Origins

Grass jelly has naturally grown since ancient times in southern China and tropical regions of Southeast Asia and has been incorporated as part of the “liang cha” (cooling tea) culture for its refreshing qualities. Although its precise origin is unclear, records show that it was enjoyed as “liangfen” or “xiancao jelly” in Fujian and Guangdong during the Qing Dynasty in the 18th century. From the 20th century onwards, it spread throughout Southeast Asia via overseas Chinese communities, and today it is a popular dessert beverage widely available at urban hawkers and supermarkets.

Manufacturing and Characteristics

To produce grass jelly drink, dried grass jelly (dried leaves and stems) is simmered with water for an extended period, then filtered and cooled to form a jelly. Traditionally, brown sugar and pandan leaves (for aroma) may also be added. In commercial products and restaurants, the solidified grass jelly is usually finely chopped, placed into cups together with liquid, and served chilled. Its color is a deep black or blackish brown, and it has a characteristic mild bitterness with a subtle natural sweetness.

Ingredients and Health Benefits

Grass jelly drink is also known as a health-conscious beverage. In traditional medicine, grass jelly is believed to “cool internal heat and remove excess moisture from the body,” with expected benefits for digestion, calming effects, and thirst suppression. Additionally, polysaccharides and dietary fiber contained in grass jelly are said to help improve gut health. However, recent studies provide only limited scientific evidence for these health effects, so excessive consumption should be avoided.

Regional Variations

Many local adaptations and arrangements of grass jelly drink exist. In Singapore, it is often available as bottled products or as homemade drinks at fresh juice stalls and hawker centers. There are also versions served with ice for extra refreshment, or with palm seed, red beans, or tapioca pearls added. In Malaysia and Thailand, grass jelly is sometimes enjoyed topped with evaporated milk or syrup, while in Taiwan, finely crushed grass jelly mixed with other chilled desserts, such as in “Black Ball Grass Jelly,” represents the beverage’s widening range of consumption.

Contemporary Significance and Culture

Grass jelly drink is not only popular as a readily available cooling beverage in the hot climates of Southeast Asia, but also as a healthy drink, drawing fresh attention in recent natural food trends. At urban hawker centers, it enjoys popularity among Japanese and Western tourists as an “exotic black jelly drink.” Its healthy image continues to evolve with the development of new flavors and combinations with other ingredients.