Chikoo Milkshake | Sapota Milkshake

Chikoo is one fruit that is seen in plenty in early summer across India. As a child I remember shopping for Chikoo from roadside vendors. The ripe ones would be washed and go straight into the refrigerator. Once they were chilled, we'd peel and quarter them and serve them for dessert after lunch. Heaven - the simplest yet most delicious dessert.

Though I hunted for this gorgeous fruit in every market I have visited here, Chikoo is the one fruit that I have never seen in a farmer's market, supermarket, or even a speciality market. But just last month to my utter delight I found some frozen Chikoo in my local Indian store. Though doubtful about its taste and texture, I decided nevertheless to give it a try. I have to say that I am delighted that I did!!

The Chikoo, Sapota, or Sapodilla is believed to be a highly desirable tropical fruit. Belonging to the Sapotaceae family, it is a native of the Yucatan in Mexico. The Chikoo was brought to the Philippines by the early Spanish colonisers, and soon spread across the Asian tropics. In India it is cultivated extensively in the coastal areas of Maharashtra, Gujarat, Bengal, Madras, and Andhra Pradesh. Interestingly, the Chikoo is grown in the Florida Keys and in the South Florida mainland. I be love to hear from anyone in the States who has been able to purchase fresh Chikoo!!!!

I thought that Chikoo milkshake would be my contribution to Sweet Series: Cool Desserts hosted by Mythreyee of Paajaka. Believe me, once you have tasted Chikoo milkshake, there is no turning back!!


And as Chikoo milkshake is very fast becoming my favourite, it is also my contribution to WYF - Juices and Ice Cream Event.

Ingredients:
1 cup frozen Chikoo pieces (fresh, if you're lucky enough to have them)
11/2 cups fat free milk, chilled
1/8 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 cup crushed ice
Sugar, to taste (I find the Chikoo sweet enough and have never felt the need for sugar)

Method:

1. Place the Chikoo pieces and milk in a blender. Blend well until light and frothy.
2. Divide the ice between two serving tumblers. Pour the milkshake over the ice.
3. Sprinkle with a pinch of cinnamon powder.
4. Serve immediately.

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