I didn't know what a kantong was.

Picture stolen from Kenie

Kenie and I, and my little brother Kevin (see blurred faced looking longingly at the bottom right corner of the pic) went strolling along Wayang Street where a one week celebration of the Mooncake Festival was held.

(For my own pictures, click here.)

That thing in my hand, that's a kantong. Apparently now, ALL little children in Kuching/ Malaysia had it some time ago in the dark old ages where everything was cheap and cost 5cents.

All little children except me.

So for all those who had a deprived childhood, this is how a kantong is made.

First, the woman (I am a feminist) will get a paper cup - such as the one I am holding in my hand.

Then the woman will shave ice and pack it into that paper cup while an ice-cream stick (that is longer than the usual ice-cream stick) is held firmly at the centre of the paper cup (no one measured the diameter so we're not quite sure if it's the exact centre).

After the 'thing' (it cannot yet be called a kantong because it is not complete) that looks similar to a popsicle is pulled out of the paper cup, syrup of all colours is poured onto it. But as black absorbes all colours, it just looks black.

And then the woman hands you the now finished kantong, and you lick it because it's too hard to bite into.

Taste description: Just sweet and nothing else.

Price: RM1.

Warning: Not to be eaten when wearing light-coloured/ favourite shirt.