An "only in Japan" ice cream flavor

Essel Super Cup Zunda Flavor

Brand: Meiji

Price: 184 yen

Place of purchase: 7-11

Rating:

I feel like Japan has some unique ice cream flavors that pop up from time to time, and this new Essel Super Cup flavor is one to try if you're a bit adventurous! It's a zunda flavored one -- basically, a crushed edamame paste -- so it has an interesting, earthy flavor to it. There are actual small pieces of edamame visible in the ice cream, too, so if you like a bit of texture in your icy treats of choice then this would likely be fun for you. Price-wise, I feel like this is pretty reasonable at 184 yen including tax -- it's a fairly sizeable portion of ice cream, especially when you compare it to the likes of Haagen-Dazs which is basically double the price for a smaller tub size.

As I mentioned above in the positive features section, this ice cream definitely has an earthy taste to it, and I think that's often a case of people loving it or hating it without a great deal of in between thoughts. If you don't like other earthy flavors like red bean, kinako, etc., then I would steer clear of this one. Overall, I thought this was interesting -- I didn't mind it, but I don't think it's a flavor that I would be going out of my way to purchase it again. However, I would say it's a fun option to try as a foreigner living in Japan to expand your tastebuds and enjoy a really unique option that I don't think any of us could experience back home. Give it a try if you're game!