Instead of after-work Kölsch in the beer garden, Cologne-Zollstock has an ice cream with a Kölsch flavor. While the makers are planning more types of alcohol, t-online has dared to try them.
For many Cologne residents it is a tradition in the summer: After a long day at work, enjoying the last rays of sunshine of the day, ideally with a refreshing Kölsch in the beer garden. Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, this is currently not possible, despite bright sunshine and temperatures of up to 26 degrees. The City has even closed the banks of the Rhineso that not too many people gather.
An alternative is the “Eisliebe” in Cologne-Zollstock, in the ice cream parlor near the Südstadion there is now ice cream with a Kölsch flavor: for 1.10 euros a ball.
The idea for the Kölsch ice cream came from “Eisliebe” owner Waldemar Koppe. He uses two liters of Kölsch for around four kilograms of ice cream, the process is similar to that of normal ice cream: The ingredients are mixed together in an ice cream machine – the most important thing is the ratio of the ingredients to one another.
Kölsch ice cream in a bowl: this variety is not available for children. (Source: Daniel Rottländer)
Also liquorice and Aperol spritz in the ice cream display
Koppe emphasizes that he likes to try new things: “I’ve also created a Red Bull ice cream for my girlfriend.” However, this was too expensive to purchase and produce. Instead, there is now liquorice and Aperol spritz in the ice cream display.
The Kölsch ice cream is particularly popular: “The demand is satisfactory,” says Koppe. “People from all over the Rhineland come to us to try the Kölsch ice cream.” Whether Aachen, Düren or Düsseldorf – many groups come to Zollstock especially for that special ice cream.
Last afternoon, too, up to 15 people stood in line at the same time to secure refreshment from Cologne.
Customers in front of the ice cream parlor in Cologne-Zollstock: In the meantime, queues have recently formed. (Source: Daniel Rottländer)
But does the ice cream really taste like beer? t-online did the test. Result: The taste of the Kölsch ice cream is actually reminiscent of beer. However, with a sweeter, fruity note. At blind tastings, guests have already guessed on flavors such as pineapple or blood orange, says Koppe.
An enthusiastic guest, on the other hand, compared the ice cream to t-online with a mango, passion fruit and beer mix. “It’s hard to put into words, but it definitely has that slightly bitter Cologne aftertaste.”
Other types of ice cream are already being planned
In the future, Koppe and his business partner Miri Slimani would like to try out other types of ice cream: “For the summer we are planning to have a gin and tonic ice cream and a strawberry champagne ice cream.” These are drinks that are particularly popular in summer. Koppe is therefore convinced that these flavors also work as ice cream. What if this is not the case? “Then we’ll think of something new,” says the ice cream master with a laugh.
But, be careful: Despite the fruity taste, Kölsch ice cream is not an alternative for children: Due to the alcohol content of 2.5 percent, Kölsch ice cream is only approved for ages 16 and over.
– .
