Halo-halo is a popular cold dessert in the Philippines, which translates to "mixed" in Tagalog. It is made up of crushed ice, evaporated milk or coconut milk, and various ingredients including side dishes such as sugar palm fruit, coconut sport, saba plantains cooked in syrup, jackfruit, agar jellies, tapioca pearls, nata de coco, sweet potato, sweetened beans, cheese, pounded toasted young rice, and ice cream. There is no standardized set of ingredients for halo-halo, and the dessert can include a wide variety of ingredients, with different local and regional varieties throughout the country. It can be found in various establishments, from food stands to 5-star hotels, and is also served in Filipino fast-food restaurants like Jollibee, Maxs, and Chowking.
Halo-halo is known for its contrasting textures, from chewy to crunchy, creamy to sticky, and it is typically assembled in a tall glass and mixed by the diner with a long-handled spoon upon arrival. The dessert is endlessly customizable, with various add-ins such as sago, macapuno, kaong, shredded cheese, cornflakes, or polvorón, making it a unique and flavorful treat.
In summary, halo-halo is a delightful and refreshing Filipino dessert that offers a mix of textures and flavors, making it a popular choice, especially during the summer months.
