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Indian Express

TasteAtlas names five Indian ice creams among world's best; what sets traditional frozen treats apart from Western ones?

While Italy's Vivoli Gelateria claimed the top spot with its classic Crema, India held its own with a mouth-watering lineup of iconic frozen treats. Ice cream isn't just a dessert, it's an emotion, and Indian flavours are finally getting the global recognition they deserve. TasteAtlas, a global food and travel guide, has listed five Indian ice creams among the world's top 100 iconic frozen desserts. Each of these treats reflects not only regional ingredients but also the nostalgic charm and innovation of Indian sweet traditions. While Italy's Vivoli Gelateria claimed the top spot with its classic Crema, India held its own with a mouth-watering lineup of iconic frozen treats. From Mumbai, K. Rustom & Co.'s nostalgic Mango Ice Cream Sandwich continues to charm generations with its creamy mango filling and crisp biscuit layers. Naturals Ice Cream's Tender Coconut flavour stands out for its fresh, tropical taste. Also hailing from Mumbai, Apsara Ice Cream offers a bold twist with its spicy-sweet Guava ice cream, complete with a hint of chilli. Down south, Mangalore's Pabba's brings the fun with its colourful, layered Gadbad Ice Cream. And in Bengaluru, Corner House's legendary Death by Chocolate sundae delivers a rich, indulgent experience that has earned a cult status. Each entry brings something distinctly Indian to the table. What sets traditional Indian ice creams apart is their deep-rooted connection to local ingredients and flavour traditions. With platforms like TasteAtlas spotlighting these creations, there's a renewed appreciation for preserving regional dessert legacies. (Source: Freepik) 2 / 7 But, what makes traditional Indian ice creams stand out compared to their Western counterparts in terms of flavour profile and ingredients? Alok Singh, expert on food history and science at Diga Organics, tells 'Traditional Indian ice creams, such as kulfi and its regional variations, have a distinct richness and depth of flavor that come from slow cooking and the use of full-fat milk or condensed milk. Unlike Western ice creams that often rely on cream, eggs, and air-churning for texture, Indian versions are typically denser and more intense in taste.' (Source: Freepik) 3 / 7 The flavour profiles are also quite unique. Ingredients like cardamom, saffron, rose, pistachios, and even regional fruits or spices create a complex, layered experience, notes Singh, adding, 'There is a cultural generosity in Indian desserts -- every spoonful feels full-bodied and indulgent.' The traditional cooking process, often involving hand-stirring and natural thickening, adds to the charm and nostalgia that Indian ice creams carry. (Source: Freepik) 4 / 7 Preservation and promotion of regional dessert traditions in India TasteAtlas has given long-overdue recognition to regional desserts that have been cherished for generations but may not have always had the global spotlight. Singh states, 'When international platforms highlight these delicacies, it not only brings pride to local communities but also encourages renewed interest among younger generations.' (Source: Freepik) It also gives small-scale artisans and traditional makers more visibility and commercial value. These recognitions act as cultural preservation tools, helping ensure that heirloom recipes and local variations continue to be passed down and celebrated. (Source: Freepik) 6 / 7 Are Indian consumers becoming more inclined toward artisanal or traditional-style ice creams? Singh believes that there is a noticeable shift. 'Indian consumers today are more informed, experimental, and quality-conscious. They are seeking out ice creams that use real ingredients, have regional authenticity, and come with a story. This interest in artisanal and traditional offerings is part of a larger movement toward mindful consumption,' he explains. (Source: Freepik) Especially in urban centers, he mentions, consumers are showing a growing appreciation for texture, natural flavors, and cultural relevance. 'Whether it is a kulfi on a stick from a family-run shop or a small-batch saffron pistachio ice cream, people are gravitating toward ice creams that feel handcrafted and rooted in tradition,' concludes the expert. (Source: Freepik)