Have you ever marvelled at the sheer diversity of shapes and sizes that ice "cubes" can take? As a frequent diner, you must have encountered these culinary gems at some point in your gastronomic journey. You may have observed that the ice in your drink isn't always perfectly rectangular, whether you like fast food joints with self-serve salad bars or fine dining establishments. When it comes to ice, not all frozen water is created equal. The shape and size of ice can significantly impact its performance and suitability for various uses. Each type of ice boasts its own distinctive characteristics that can elevate its effectiveness in specific applications.
Confused? Stress not! Learn about the six most common ice varieties and when to use them with this article.
Gourmet ice
These little ice cubes are a fun twist on the traditional cube ice. They're a circular take on the classic ice cube shape, taking the form of hollow cylinders roughly as tall as they are broad. The open end of this ice has a rounded lip that resembles a hat band, thus the name. This form of ice, called "gourmet ice," is commonly found at high-end eateries and pubs that value both practicality and aesthetics.
Since top hat ice melts gradually, it is ideal for mixed beverages that require a delicate balance of components and shouldn't be diluted. Because of their transparency, these cubes are perfect for visually impressive drinks.
Cube ice
When most people hear the word "ice," they picture cubes. You may think of these as solid ice cubes, albeit they could have a slightly tapered end or rounded edges. Even yet, these are the classic ice cubes you produce at home and can find at most convenience stores; they are also the most probable form to come across if you are seeking the crystal-clear cubes that bartenders in high-end restaurants amateur mixologists esteem for mixed cocktails.
Flower and herbs infused ice cubes, Image Source: Pexels
The most fabulous all-around ice comprises full cubes, perfect for immediately cooling off beverages and icing down your cooler to keep your favourite meals cold on the move. Their compact form and low melting points make them useful in many contexts.
Half dice
Half-cube ice pieces are smaller ice cubes, also called half-dice ice, resulting from slicing a standard ice cube in half. They have a narrower breadth, like a pat of butter. Since these smaller cubes fill a glass more entirely and mix well with liquids as they melt, they are widely used in beverage dispensers. Half-cube ice is the way to go when it comes to preparing blended drinks or filling individual glasses. The punier size is ideal for blending silkier daiquiris and other frozen beverages. Its uniform melting makes it a great iced coffee mug.
Bullet ice
Bullet ice, as the name indicates, resembles a bullet in outline. It has a rounded end and is cylindrical in shape. It might melt faster because of a common hollow centre. The hazy or white colouration that characterizes bullet ice also lends credence to the name "pearl ice."
Bullet ice is perfect for mixed cocktails since it is typically hollow. Because of the ice bullets' larger "inside" surface area, beverages are chilled rapidly and evenly. The smaller size, like half cubes, is perfect for mixed drinks. Bullet ice makers are an excellent option for carbonated soft beverages and more relaxed settings where cloudiness isn't a deal breaker.
Pouring ice in a glass, Image Source: Pexels
Half moon
It goes by names such as crescent ice and sometimes half-moon ice. It is a solitary hunk of frozen water that resembles a cylinder sliced in half lengthwise. The ice cube is flat on one side and semicircular on the other. Large ice cubes like this are produced by automatic ice makers like those found in hotels or the freezer in your house.
Since most crescent ice is somewhat solid, it is not recommended in a blender. Additionally, its size makes it ideal for coolers and tall glasses. Being so thickly frozen and rather big, it melts slowly and provides excellent cooling for drinks on a hot day. The spherical design is perfect for domestic usage since it keeps drinks from spilling over when poured over ice.
Icy flakes
Tiny bits of ice has a texture that makes it appear as though they were chipped or shaved off of the larger block by the iceman who used to fill the icebox before the invention of electric freezers. The white beauty and unusual smoothness of this ice make it highly desirable. Use flake ice to make a snowy, chilly bed wherever it's needed; for example, under a bed of shrimp cocktails during a party.