This post may contain affiliate links. Please read my disclosure policy for details.
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
What is Chi-Chi Grape Smoothie
The Chi-Chi grape smoothie is a bubble tea shop favourite: a frozen Kyoho grape slush with a thick cap of salty cheese foam. Half drink, half dessert.
Kyoho grapes are the big, deep purple Japanese grapes with a honey-sweet flavour. Peel them before blending so the slush is smooth and that bright purple colour pops.
This is my home recreation of the Chi-Chi Grape from MACU Tea, the Taiwanese tea shop known for its cheese foam fruit slushes, where a salty cream cap sits on top of icy blended fruit.
Kyoho grapes give it a deep purple colour and a honeyed, almost wine-like flavour. Sip it through the salty cheese foam first, then stir it all together.
Key Ingredient: Kyoho Grapes
Kyoho grapes are sweeter and more aromatic than regular red grapes. Find them at Asian grocers in late summer and fall. Out of season, use frozen Kyoho or the darkest, sweetest grapes you can find.
FAQs
What is cheese foam?
A whipped topping of cream cheese, cream and a pinch of salt, as served on cheese tea. Sip the drink through it.
Can I make it less sweet?
Yes. Start with half the syrups and add more to taste.
What grapes should I use?
Seedless purple or Kyoho grapes give the deepest colour and flavour. Freeze them first so the slush stays thick without extra ice.
Do I need a cream siphon?
No. You can whip the cheese foam with a hand mixer or a milk frother until it is thick but still pourable.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Skip the cheese foam and top it with coconut cream whipped with a pinch of salt and sugar.
Other Recipes You May Like
Love the recipe?
Make sure to follow me on Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and Pinterest to stay up to date with all of my content!
Sign up for my free newsletter to receive cooking tips & recipe updates!
If you made this recipe, send me a picture and tag it with #W2RECIPES.
I would love to see your re-creations on Instagram @willhkwong.
If you liked this recipe, Pin it to Pinterest! 👇🏻
Ginger Scallion Sauce is a versatile and flavorful condiment commonly used in Asian cuisine, particularly in Chinese…