Bakdash facts for kids
Bakdash is a very famous ice cream parlor located in Damascus, the capital city of Syria. It is well-known throughout the Arab world for its special "Booza", which is a unique kind of Syrian ice cream. People from all over the world visit Bakdash to try this delicious and stretchy treat.
Bakdash: A Historic Ice Cream Shop
Bakdash is more than just an ice cream shop; it's a piece of history in Damascus. It first opened its doors way back in 1895. This makes it one of the oldest and most traditional ice cream shops in the entire Middle East. For over a century, it has been serving its special ice cream to generations of families.
What Makes Booza Special?
Booza is not like regular ice cream you might find in other countries. It has a unique texture that is both chewy and stretchy. This is because of two special ingredients:
- Mastic: This is a resin from a tree that gives booza its stretchy quality. It also adds a unique, slightly pine-like flavor.
- Sahlab: This is a flour made from orchid roots. It helps to thicken the ice cream and makes it resistant to melting quickly.
The way booza is made is also very traditional. Workers use large wooden mallets to pound the ice cream in a big, cold metal drum. This pounding helps to mix the ingredients perfectly and gives booza its smooth, elastic texture.
A Taste of Tradition
When you visit Bakdash, you'll often see long lines of people waiting to get their ice cream. The most popular flavor is a creamy white ice cream, usually topped with crushed pistachio nuts. The shop has a lively atmosphere, filled with the sounds of mallets pounding and happy customers enjoying their treats. It's a place where locals and tourists come together to experience a true Syrian tradition.
Bakdash is located in the heart of the Al-Hamidiyah Souq, which is a very old and busy market in Damascus. This location adds to its charm, as visitors can explore the historic market before or after enjoying their ice cream. It's a must-visit spot for anyone wanting to taste authentic Syrian culture and a truly unique dessert.
