Agency: While ‘Ice Rice’ may be relatively unknown in Nepal, it is becoming an increasingly popular summer delicacy in China. Known locally as ‘Bing Fan’, this chilled rice dish is widely loved for its refreshing taste during hot weather.
The city of Fuzhou in eastern China is particularly famous for its version of Ice Rice. The dish typically features chilled cooked rice served with fresh fruits, crunchy toppings, nuts, jelly cubes, and sweetened milk.
Local vendor Gao Yanqing, who has been selling Ice Rice for more than 25 years, says demand peaks during summer. “On hot days, I usually sell around 1,500 bowls daily. Customers often wait in line for at least half an hour,” he shared.
During summer nights, it’s common for hundreds of customers to bring their own bowls and wait patiently for their turn. The annual Ice Rice Festival further attracts tourists from various regions.
According to the local commerce bureau, the region is home to dozens of Ice Rice restaurants, generating millions of dollars in annual revenue. In Chang Le district alone, there are more than 20 night markets and over 40 dedicated Ice Rice eateries, making it a key part of the local economy.
(With inputs from CCTV+)
