19 May Raspados of Panama
By Natalie Warner
Trying new foods in a new country can be somewhat intimidating. Raspados, a typical street food, are something you won’t regret trying. After all, what’s not to love about walking around the streets of Panama on a warm day while enjoying shaved ice?
This isn’t your ordinary snow cone. Panama kicks your ordinary shaved ice up a notch by adding condensed milk. Seeing a raspado being made can be quite entertaining. It starts off by using a special device that shaves a large block of ice into a cup. The ice then gets a generous squirt of condensed milk and the syrup flavoring of your choice. Common flavors include cherry, maracuya (passion fruit), grape, and piña (pineapple).
Finding a street vendor that makes raspados can be easy, if you know where they tend to hang out. Expect to find them in popular tourist spots and high traffic areas. There are many pushing their carts in Casco Viejo and the boardwalk of Av. Balboa in Panama City. Schools are another popular spot for raspado vendors. Keep a look out for them during festivals too.
Raspados are not only entertaining to watch being made, but are also a refreshing treat. Be on the lookout for people who sell them and try one for yourself!