Japanese Mango Shaved Ice Kakigori became my favorite treat during my travels through Japan.
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Kakigori – Japanese mango Shaved Ice recipe
Japanese Mango Shaved Ice is a popular version of Kakigori – a beloved summer dessert in Japan. Kakigori is a traditional Japanese dessert made from finely shaved ice.
It is typically served in a bowl and generously drizzled with flavored syrups, such as mango, matcha, or strawberry, along with optional toppings like condensed milk, fresh fruits, sweet beans, ice cream, or other creative additions.

The mango version of Kakigori stands out due to its tropical sweetness. The combination of fluffy shaved ice with sweet mango syrup and creamy condensed milk results in a refreshing dessert that is both light and satisfying.
The sweet-tart balance of the mango syrup paired with the cold ice creates an invigorating experience, perfect for hot summer days. So, prepare to beat the heat of the summer days with shaved ice. Here is how to make Japanese mango shaved ice without a shaved ice machine:

Mango Shaved Ice in Japanese Style – Kakigori
Ingredients
- 4 cups crushed ice
- 2 ripe mangoes peeled and diced
- 1/4 cup condensed milk
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish optional
- 1 ripe mango peeled and chopped
- 2 tbsp water
- 2 tbsp sugar
Instructions
Making mango syrup for shaved ice
- In a blender, combine 1 chopped ripe mango, water, and sugar.
- Blend until smooth, then strain to remove any fibers. Set aside.
Making shaved ice
- Place ice cubes in a zip-top plastic bag or wrap them in a clean kitchen towel. Seal the bag or towel securely.
- Crush the ice using a rolling pin or mallet until you get a coarse texture.
- Transfer the crushed ice to a blender or food processor.
- Pulse or blend the crushed ice in short bursts until you achieve a fine, snow-like texture. Be cautious not to overblend.
Assemble Mango Shaved Ice Kakigori
- Divide the shaved ice among four serving bowls. In a blender, puree the diced mangoes until smooth.
- Drizzle the condensed milk first and then add the mango syrup over the shaved ice.
- Spoon the mango puree over the ice.
- Garnish with fresh mint leaves if desired.
Notes
Nutrition
How to pair
Here are some suggestions to pair Kakigori mango shaved ice:
1. Dish Pairings
– Japanese Street Foods:
- Takoyaki: Savory octopus balls contrast deliciously with the sweet kakigori.
- Yakisoba: Stir-fried noodles add heartiness to the dessert’s light texture.
– Snacks and Sides:
- Mochi: Chewy rice cakes add texture and flavor.
- Sweet Red Beans (Azuki): Serve as a side or topping for extra sweetness.
– Desserts:
- Dorayaki: Fluffy pancakes with red bean paste pair well for an extra sweet treat.
- Ice Cream: A scoop of mango or matcha ice cream complements kakigori beautifully.
2. Drinks to Pair
– Non-Alcoholic Options:
- Fruit juices: Fresh citrus or tropical juices like orange and pineapple juice boost the fruity notes.
- Sweetened condensed milk drink
- Mango smoothie
– Cocktails:
- Kakigori Negroni: A twist on the classic Negroni with strawberry syrup served over kakigori – refreshing and boozy.
- Fruit-infused cocktails: Try mango mojitos or tropical daiquiris to enhance the flavors of mango kakigori.
– Traditional Japanese Drinks:
- Matcha latte: Earthy matcha balances the sweetness of mango kakigori.
- Japanese green tea: Hot or iced green tea refreshingly contrasts the icy dessert.
- Ramune: This fizzy Japanese soda adds a playful sweetness.
Kakigori Variations
While mango is a delightful flavor, numerous variations of Kakigori cater to diverse tastes and preferences.
1. Popular Kakigori Variations
- Classic Flavors:
- Strawberry: Made with fresh strawberries or strawberry syrup, it’s a staple flavor.
- Melon: Typically topped with melon syrup or fresh melon pieces.
- Lemon: A refreshing, tangy twist to balance the sweetness.
- Green Tea (Matcha): Earthy and often complemented by sweetened condensed milk.
- Tropical Flavors:
- Mango: Served with mango syrup, fresh chunks, or mango puree with condensed milk.
- Pineapple: Adds a sweet-tart tropical flair.
- Unique & Modern Flavors:
- Blue Hawaii: Inspired by soda with a vibrant, sweet flavor.
- Tomato: Trendy, featuring chopped tomatoes, sometimes with cream cheese.
- Coffee: A bold choice, using coffee syrup for a caffeine boost.
- Fruit-Infused Kakigori: Uses real fruit pulp and juice for a fresh, natural taste. Common fruits include strawberries, melons, and mango.
- Specialty Styles:
- Shirokuma: Topped with condensed milk, fruits, mochi, and sweet red beans.
- Uji Kintoki: Combines green tea syrup, sweet bean paste, and mochi.
2. Toppings & Additions:
- Condensed Milk: Adds a creamy touch.
- Fruits: Fresh pieces like strawberries, kiwi, or mango.
- Mochi: Chewy rice cakes for texture.
- Sweet Red Beans (Anko): Traditional Japanese sweetness