When it comes to "dessert paradises," it's hard to ignore Italy with its sweet delights ranging from Tiramisu to Panettone, Biscotti, and Panna Cotta. However, the "star" of summer is undoubtedly the colorful Gelato ice cream.

Today, in Vietnam or anywhere else, one can easily enjoy many distinctive gelato flavors such as Pistacchio (Pistachio), Fior di Latte (Milk Cream), or refreshing fresh fruit flavors. However, there are some unique flavors that you can hardly find anywhere else outside of their homeland.

Riso - The sweet taste comes from the rice grains.

Perhaps, amidst a myriad of vibrant and eye-catching flavors, one might easily overlook a humble yet unique option: rice-flavored gelato. If you ever visit the art city of Florence, you can find these gelatos in almost any ice cream shop, as this is where it originated. The main ingredient is Arborio – a short-grain Italian rice; however, any other similar grain can be used, and few would notice the difference.

"But what flavor could rice possibly bring?" - that's probably the question many people ask when they first encounter this unique ice cream flavor. However, the combination of the rich creaminess of the ice cream and the light, chewy, fragrant taste of cooked rice grains creates a wonderful blend of flavors. If you appreciate simplicity with subtle, special touches, you'll surely love the original deliciousness of this delightful dessert.

Liquirizia - Aromatic herbal scent

Licorice is traditionally used as an ingredient in herbal teas or medicinal preparations to enhance aroma, add a sweet aftertaste, and promote health benefits. In Italy, Gelato alla Liquirizia was created, making licorice the main ingredient to highlight its distinctive and explosive flavor.

Made from familiar ingredients including milk, cream, and sugar, with the addition of licorice powder or licorice extract, this ice cream has a unique light brown color, sometimes decorated with eye-catching black licorice candy. From the first bite, you're sure to be impressed by the strong aroma that awakens your senses. The creamy richness blended with the deep, sweet and bitter taste of licorice within the cool ice cream will take your taste buds from one surprise to another.

You can find licorice ice cream most commonly in southern Calabria, as this is the largest licorice-producing region in Italy. However, due to its widespread popularity, this flavor is now also available in many other areas throughout the country.

Zuppa Inglese - Inspired by England

Zuppa Inglese literally translates to "English Soup." The name itself sparks curiosity and anticipation. In fact, it originates from an English dessert called Trifle, which consists of layers of sponge cake, wafer, or biscuit, custard, jam, fruit, etc., layered in a glass bowl, revealing colorful layers. Therefore, enjoying Zuppa Inglese is like savoring a cake with a full range of rich, sweet flavors. To balance and accentuate this classic dessert, a touch of liqueur is added, cleverly enhancing the aromatic notes in the cool ice cream.

Particularly beloved by those with a sweet tooth, Zuppa Inglese has become a very popular gelato flavor in Italy and is sold in ice cream parlors throughout major cities and suburbs.

Zabaglione - Sweet and creamy custard flavor

If you love the rich, creamy flavor of custard, Gelato Zabaglione is definitely the choice for you. The ice cream has a bright yellow color like egg yolks and a smooth, creamy texture that immediately brings to mind the filling of the legendary Choux pastry. This sweet, rich flavor is combined with sweet wines like Marsala or Vin Santo, creating a unique and delightful twist on a traditional ice cream. Sometimes, a topping of fresh fruit is added to give it a refreshing summery taste.

Cipolla Rossa - Ice cream...with red onion flavor?

Creativity in cuisine is one of the most charming and interesting traits of the Italians. And it's taken to the next level with an unprecedented and bizarre combination in red onion-flavored gelato.

In the Tropea region of Southern Italy, red onions are a specialty, distinguished by their sweet flavor and pungent aroma thanks to the favorable climate and soil conditions. Therefore, as a source of pride, they are incorporated into a range of popular dishes such as pasta, bread, salads, pizza, and even gelato. It's safe to assume that a Gelato alla Cipolla Rossa ice cream cone has a flavor profile that's not easy to appreciate. While still featuring a creamy, high-fat base, the emphasis is on the sweet, pungent taste of the onion, which overwhelms the palate, offering a sensation that is both unusual, exciting, and explosive.

Because of its niche flavor, this ice cream isn't easy to find in Italy. You can visit the famous Gelati Tonino ice cream shop in Tropea – the creator of this unique ice cream – to experience it in its most authentic form. If you're brave and curious enough, this flavor adventure will give you an unforgettable experience, but it's definitely not for everyone.

Ha Thu - Photo: Internet