raspado

Raspado is a frozen dessert consisting of shaved ice dressed with sweet syrups. The name derives from the Spanish rasp ar, meaning to scrape or shave. It is commonly found in Mexico and other Latin American countries and in Latino communities in the United States, where street vendors sell it especially in warm weather.

Preparation involves shaving ice with a raspadora or similar device to produce a light, fluffy texture. The ice is served in a cup or cone and topped with fruit-flavored syrups, such as limón (lime), fresa (strawberry), mango, or tamarindo. Some versions include condensed milk or crema, and garnishes like fresh fruit, chamoy, Tajín, or lime juice.

Regional variations exist: in some areas raspados emphasize dairy toppings, while others favor spicy-sour chamoy and chili-seasoned fruits. The dessert is typically a street-side snack during warm days, but it is also available in cafes and markets. While similar to a snow cone, raspado generally uses more finely shaved ice for a softer texture and a more pronounced ice-to-syrup balance.

Raspado is part of a broader family of shaved-ice treats that reflects local flavors and ingredients, with variations across regions and vendors.