Grass Jelly Brown Sugar Milk is a delicious and unique beverage that combines the smoothness of milk, the rich sweetness of brown sugar syrup, and the chewy texture of grass jelly.

This cold, non-caffeinated drink is perfect for anyone looking for a refreshing treat without the buzz of coffee. Best of all, it's adaptable to various milk options, making it suitable for both dairy lovers and those looking for a dairy-free alternative. Let's explore how to make this delightful drink at home!

What is Grass Jelly?

Grass jelly, also known as "Chao Guo," is a jelly-like substance made from the boiled mesona plant, starch, and potassium carbonate. It's typically black in color and has a mild herbal taste, making it an ideal addition to desserts and beverages. While grass jelly itself is nearly flavorless, its unique texture provides an enjoyable contrast when paired with sweet syrups, such as the brown sugar syrup used in this recipe.

Ingredients and Substitutes

To make Grass Jelly Brown Sugar Milk, you'll need a few simple ingredients:

• Canned Grass Jelly: Available at most Asian grocery stores, you can find either black or pandan-flavored (green) varieties. For this recipe, opt for the black grass jelly.

• Milk:Choose your preferred type of milk—whether dairy or a plant-based alternative like almond, soy, or oat milk.

• Brown Sugar: If you prefer, you can substitute brown sugar with white sugar, coconut sugar, or cane sugar.

• Cold Water and Ice Cubes: For that perfect chill.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your own Grass Jelly Brown Sugar Milk:

1. Prepare the Grass Jelly: Open your can of grass jelly and carefully slice it into small and medium-sized cubes. The variety in texture makes the drink more enjoyable.

2. Make the Brown Sugar Syrup: In a small saucepan, combine brown sugar and water. Bring it to a boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer until the syrup thickens. Be sure to stir it constantly to prevent burning. Once thickened, remove it from the heat.

3. Mix the Jelly with Syrup: Divide the brown sugar syrup into two portions. Take half of the syrup and pour it over the grass jelly cubes in two separate bowls. Gently mix the syrup into the jelly for an even coat.

4. Assemble the Drink: In a tall glass, layer the grass jelly cubes with ice cubes. Spoon some of the syrup along the glass's walls to create a beautiful marble effect. Continue layering the jelly and ice, finishing with a generous pour of milk over the top.

5. Serve and Enjoy: Stir everything together and enjoy the refreshing, creamy beverage!

Expert Tips

To perfect your Grass Jelly Brown Sugar Milk, here are some expert tips:

• Don't Overcook the Syrup: Once the syrup begins to thicken, remove it from the heat immediately to avoid burning.

• Cut the Jelly in Different Sizes: Slicing the jelly into both small and medium cubes gives your drink a pleasant variety of textures.

• Serve Immediately: This drink is best enjoyed fresh and cold. Prepare it right before serving for the best flavor and texture.

Why You'll Love This Drink

Grass Jelly Brown Sugar Milk is a delightful drink that combines a sweet, creamy taste with a chewy texture. It's a perfect dessert for any occasion, and it can be easily customized with your choice of milk. Plus, it's dairy-free adaptable, making it a great option for anyone with dietary preferences. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can create this refreshing treat at home in no time.