Surprisingly, grilled ice cubes are becoming a sensation in Changsha, Hunan Province, as a peculiar street food trend takes centre stage.
Photo via The Straits Times
A viral video showcasing a street vendor crafting and serving grilled ice cubes as a snack has gained attention on Chinese social media, amassing over 26,000 likes, according to The Straits Times. Priced at approximately 15 yuan (RM9.80), this unusual treat involves grilling ice cubes over an open flame and then seasoning them with a blend of spices and sauce.
Attributing the dish to Northeast China, the vendor claimed it as a local specialty. However, Mr. Zhao, a drafter for the Heilongjiang Landmark Food Brand Identification Management Standards, dismissed this assertion, stating: "There is no such thing as grilled ice cube snacks in the northeast. This is a fabrication by the street vendor," as reported by Newsflare.
While the exact origin of the seasoning on these frosty delicacies remains mysterious, The Straits Times noted that the dish was initially documented as early as March 2021 in Harbin.
Photo via South China Morning Post
Known as suodiu, the dish involves stir-frying river rocks with chilli oil, garlic sauce, garlic cloves, and a medley of spices. The Guardian reported that a single serving of suodiu costs 16 yuan (RM10).
CNN translates suodiu to "suck and discard," explaining that the enjoyment involves savouring the pebbles for flavour before spitting them out.
Adding a historical and cultural touch to this unique street food phenomenon, Malay Mail suggests that suodiu is believed to have originated centuries ago when stranded river boatmen cooked stones with condiments to stave off hunger.
This quirky culinary experience fuses tradition with a contemporary twist, creating a buzz in the world of street food.
Would you ever try this?
