Today was pretty hot in Southern California, and it had me wishing I had all the ingredients to make one of my favorite refreshing treats; Chamango! It’s a Mexican fruit/ice cream/spice extravaganza of yum 😀 If you are not used to mixing fruit with chile, it might be an acquired taste. But I’ve found that even people who try it for the first time enjoy it! If you have a Mexican Fruit and Ice Cream shop in your area (Fruteria/Neveria) definitely stop in and try one, or you can even make one at home 🙂
You may be wondering what a CHAMANGO has to do with HAVDALAH? Well, technically it doesn’t! But as Jewish women often do, sometimes I see ordinary things a little differently. In the weekly ceremony of Havdalah we have the bright flame of the candle, the sweetness of the wine, and the scent of spices that help separate Shabbat from the week to come. When I remembered this delicious dessert today, it occurred to me that it would be the perfect addition to warm Saturday evening at the conclusion of havdalah. As you can see, this treat also has spices, sweetness, and vivid color that echoes the symbolism in this cherished ritual. What a beautiful and delicious way to beautify the mitzvah of separating the sacred and the secular! 🙂
So what exactly is in it??
Anatomy of Chamango:
The wet red stuff- Chamoy! Chamoy is a mild condiment made from fruit, chiles and lime juice. It has a little kick! You can buy it in a bottle in Hispanic markets or in the Hispanic section of some supermarkets, or there are simple recipes to make your own.
The fruit: Mangos 😀 Mangos are the perfect texture and sweetness to accompany the spice.
The ice cream: Usually Mango. But I’ve also had it with lime sherbet (sometimes called a Diablito), or Rainbow Sherbet.
The red stick thing: A tamarind candy w/ chile! Also available in Hispanic markets.
As the days get longer and warmer, why not get a little adventurous with recipes? Yum! ;D
L’Chayim and Buen provecho!
Jew Making Me Hungry! 