Banh mi kep kem (ice cream sandwiches) is a beloved childhood snack for many Vietnamese, blending seemingly unrelated ingredients into a delightful treat that has been a part of daily life for generations.
The dish consists of soft bread filled with two to three scoops of ice cream, with various flavors such as coconut, vanilla, chocolate, or durian. Toppings like crunchy peanuts, shredded dried coconut, and a drizzle of condensed milk or syrup add extra flavor and richness.
Though it features only two main ingredients—bread and ice cream—this combination offers a delightful and memorable taste. The soft, chewy bread pairs perfectly with the cool, sweet, and creamy ice cream inside.
To fully enjoy this treat, diners need to take a wide bite to include both the ice cream and the bread. The tongue experiences the soft, fragrant bread combined with the cold ice cream and the sweet, nutty taste of condensed milk and peanuts.
The sight of sidewalk ice cream stalls or carts with jingling bells has become an inseparable part of many people’s memories. On hot summer days, holding a banh mi kep kem, sitting under the shade of a tree, or running around with friends are unforgettable moments.
