In the wonderful world of the internet, one of the scandals of the week concerns a sundae topped with cilantro that would have been launched by McDonald’s in China.
The ice cream looks like a meme, but even the English newspaper The Independent says it’s real. The Chinese Mac would have made a special sundae flavor, with lemon and cilantro syrup, plus a handful of coriander leaves on top, to be sold between the 21st and 25th of February.
There may even be such an ice cream. That’s not to say the launch is much more than a big marketing ploy. A good one, by the way. Everyone’s arguing over whether the sundae is disgusting or whether it deserves a chance.
As you know, the leaf is a polarization vector. Haters hate hard, and defenders take up arms with equal fervor.
There’s no way to try Chinese cilantro ice cream, but I’ve tasted something similar – and probably much better – right here in Brazil.
The Vero gelateria, in Ipanema (south of Rio), is one of the best in the country. In addition to mastering the classic flavors, Bolognese gelataio Andrea Panzacchi likes to attract attention with decidedly unusual ice creams.
I’ve seen mortadella gelato with parmesan and balsamic there. From gorgonzola. And, of course, cilantro. “Citrus and spicy,” read the little sign on the fridge. It was just like that. Sweet, with lemon acidity and a hint of pepper.
Very interesting, nothing offensive to the palate. Yummy, even. For those who live in Rio, I just found out that it’s happening right now at Vero.
Only, um, I wouldn’t have a whole cup of cilantro ice cream. Satisfied curiosity, I asked the girl to serve me pistachio and caramel with fleur de sel.
I think I did well.
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