Aiyu jelly
Aiyu jelly is a traditional dessert originating from Taiwan, commonly found at night markets and eateries throughout the country, including the famous Shilin Night Market in Taipei. It is made from the seeds of the aiyu plant (scientific name: Ficus pumila var. awkeotsang) and is characterized by its unique texture and refreshing taste. Served as a chilled jelly, it is especially popular during the hot seasons and is enjoyed by both locals and tourists.
- Taste Rating
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- Price
- 50 New Taiwan Dollar
- Meal Date
- 1/4/2025
- Food Travel Log
- The Shilin Night Market with over 100 years of history The area still retains remnants of Japanese rule, making it a place ripe for exploration and contemplation. First, let’s start with some aiyu jelly to refresh the palate! When you sip it through a straw, the chilled jelly and mildly sweet citrus juice are incredibly invigorating! Oh, I see there's a frog and its eggs depicted on the cup. Could there be a connection? Ah, I guess the texture is similar... better not overthink it.
AI Gourmet Analysis
Overview
Aiyu Jelly (Ai-Yu Jelly, Taiwanese: Ò-gíô) is a traditional dessert representative of Taiwan and has long been popular as a refreshing beverage, especially during hot seasons and at night markets. The unique jelly, made from the seeds of the creeping fig "Aiyu-zi" (Ficus pumila var. awkeotsang), a member of the mulberry family, spread among the general population throughout Taiwan during the Japanese colonial period. Especially at famous tourist destinations like Taipei's Shilin Night Market, it remains a staple enjoyed by both locals and visitors, known for its smooth texture and refreshing taste, which continues to be widely appreciated.
Origin and History
The history of Aiyu Jelly starts from the late 19th to early 20th centuries, with strong evidence pointing to Hsinchu County in Taiwan as its place of origin. The wild-grown aiyu fruit found in the region's mountainous areas is rich in plant fibers that solidify naturally without boiling or heating, and has long been used as an ingredient for refreshing drinks and desserts. It is said that immigrants from Fujian, China, who came to Taiwan in the late Qing Dynasty, discovered and popularized Aiyu Jelly. For over 100 years, it has been served at well-known night markets like Taipei's Shilin, and various regional recipes and serving styles have developed over time.
Preparation and Characteristics
The preparation of Aiyu Jelly is unique, distinguished by the fact that it involves almost no heating. The dried aiyu seeds are placed in a netted bag and kneaded in cold spring or purified water, causing the pectin on the seed surface to dissolve and naturally gel into jelly. This phenomenon is unique to aiyu jelly, resulting in a natural texture that doesn't rely on gelatin or agar. The finished jelly appears transparent with a golden to pale yellow hue, featuring a light and refreshing flavor.
Serving Methods and Variations
Aiyu Jelly can be served simply as jelly or paired with lemon juice or citrus-based sauces as beverages or desserts. Typically, it is served with ice in a cup or bowl and topped with syrup, which may be adjusted with water, brown sugar, or honey. In modern times, there has been an increase in creative menu items such as "aiyu drinks" in the style of bubble tea, or combinations with seasonal fruits, Chinese herbs, and tofu pudding (douhua).
Food Culture and Trivia
At Taipei's Shilin Night Market and similar venues, Aiyu Jelly is a staple night market delicacy, especially popular during Taiwan's hot summers and festival seasons. The cups often feature frog illustrations or egg designs, humorously referencing the jelly's similarity to frog eggs in appearance (though not in ingredients). There are various theories about the origin of the dish's name, including a legend that it was named after the discoverer's daughter "Aiyu," as well as suggestions that it derives from the sound or meaning in Taiwanese or Chinese, which are also noted in international literature.
Health Benefits and Modern Evaluation
Aiyu Jelly is low in calories and high in dietary fiber and minerals, making it popular among those who are health-conscious or dieting. It requires no preservatives or artificial sweeteners, gaining attention as a natural food. Today, it is found in Asian cafes and dessert shops around the world and is highly regarded internationally as a dessert symbolizing Taiwanese tourism.
Related Culture and Local Experience
Shilin Night Market is one of Taiwan's largest night markets and is a historic area bearing the significant influence of the Japanese colonial era. Enjoying Aiyu Jelly during a stroll reflects a slice of daily life for locals and offers tourists a gateway to experiencing authentic Taiwanese culture. Its convenience and refreshing flavor make it a memorable culinary experience for visitors.