How to Make Grass Jelly Drink (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Grass Jelly Drink is a beloved cooling beverage commonly found in Singapore’s vibrant hawker centres and traditional kopitiams. Known locally as 'cincau', this drink is a staple in Singaporean cuisine, enjoyed both as a refreshing treat on sweltering afternoons and as a healthier dessert alternative. Its origins in Southeast Asian street food culture have evolved, making it a popular fusion drink, often paired with soya milk or other local beverages for an extra twist. The silky, slightly bitter grass jelly cubes float in lightly sweetened syrup, creating a delicate balance of flavors and textures. Its subtle herbal notes and the chewy bite of the jelly make every sip satisfying yet guilt-free. Grass Jelly Drink is especially prized for its cooling properties, often consumed to alleviate heatiness in Singapore’s tropical climate. As a vegan and vegetarian-friendly option, it fits seamlessly into various dietary preferences, making it a go-to choice for all ages seeking a healthier, authentic Singaporean beverage.
Ingredients
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1 · Drain the grass jelly and cut into small cubes (about 1cm)
Drain the grass jelly and cut into small cubes (about 1cm). Place the cubes in a large mixing bowl.
Step 2 · In a saucepan
In a saucepan, combine water, pandan leaves, and rock sugar. Bring to a gentle boil until the sugar dissolves completely. Simmer for 5 minutes, then remove pandan leaves.
Step 3 · Allow the syrup to cool to room temperature
Allow the syrup to cool to room temperature. For a healthier version, add stevia or monk fruit sweetener after cooling instead of extra sugar.
Step 4 · Divide grass jelly cubes equally into two tall glasses
Divide grass jelly cubes equally into two tall glasses. Add a generous amount of ice cubes over the jelly.
Step 5 · Pour the cooled syrup evenly over the jelly and ice in each glass
Pour the cooled syrup evenly over the jelly and ice in each glass. Stir gently to mix.
Step 6 · Garnish with a lime wedge and mint leaves if desired
Garnish with a lime wedge and mint leaves if desired. Serve immediately, kopitiam-style.
Why this recipe is healthy
This Grass Jelly Drink recipe is a healthy option because it uses minimal added sugar, offers a decent amount of fiber, and contains no animal products or processed creamers. Serving it with ice and fresh ingredients keeps hydration high and calorie counts low. The use of natural sweeteners and optional lime means you can customize sweetness without compromising on nutrition, making it suitable for most healthy diets.
A note on tradition
Grass Jelly Drink holds a special place in Singapore’s hawker and kopitiam culture, loved across generations for its cooling, thirst-quenching qualities. Commonly enjoyed after a spicy local meal or as a midday refreshment, it reflects the city’s fusion influences—sometimes paired with soya milk or local fruits. While not tied to a specific festival, it’s a year-round favorite, especially during the hot and humid months.