The first time I saw a Taiwanese peanut ice cream roll being made, I honestly stopped walking. A vendor was shaving a block of peanuts into soft, fluffy curls right in front of me, and I had no idea what was coming next! A crepe, ice cream, peanuts, cilantro. It sounded strange, but I had to try it!
This dessert is a classic sight at Taiwanese night markets. You’ll usually see it at smaller stalls, where everything is made fresh to order! The peanut block is shaved by hand into thin flakes, almost like snow, and spread across a thin crepe. Then a scoop or two of ice cream goes right on top, usually taro, vanilla, or sometimes pineapple!
What makes this dessert really special is how unexpected the combination is. The peanuts are sweet and nutty. The ice cream is cold and creamy. And then there’s cilantro. It surprises a lot of people, but in Taiwan it’s very normal! The fresh, herbal note keeps the dessert from feeling too sweet and balances everything out!
This snack has been around for decades and is deeply tied to night market culture. Night markets aren’t just about food in Taiwan. They’re where people hang out after work, meet friends, and snack while walking around! Peanut ice cream rolls are easy to eat on the go, which makes them perfect for that setting!
I also love how simple and unpretentious it is. There’s no fancy equipment, no long waiting time, and no attempt to dress it up. You watch it being made, you get it in your hand, and you eat it right away. It’s quick, playful, and very much part of everyday life!
What really sticks with me is how this dessert reflects Taiwanese food culture. Mixing sweet with savory. Using fresh herbs in unexpected places. And not being afraid of combinations that sound odd until you actually taste them!
If you ever find yourself wandering through a Taiwanese night market, keep an eye out for this roll. It might look unusual at first, but once you take a bite, it makes complete sense!