When it comes to icy treats in New Orleans, the snoball is king. This sweet and refreshing treat is a summer staple in the city and has a long and interesting history that dates back over a century.
The earliest form of the snoball dates back to the late 1800s, when it was known as the “sorbet” or “sorbetto” and was made using a hand-cranked ice shaver. At the time, the treat was only available to the wealthy, who could afford the expensive ice and hand-cranked machines needed to make it.
In the early 1900s, an inventor named George Ortolano patented the first automated ice-shaving machine, which revolutionized the way snoballs were made. With the new machine, snoballs became more accessible and affordable, and soon they became a popular treat among people of all classes.
In the 1930s, a man named Ernest Hansen took the snoball to the next level by adding flavored syrups to the shaved ice. He started with just a few flavors, including cherry and grape, but eventually expanded to over 40 different flavors.
Over the years, the snoball has become a beloved New Orleans tradition, with countless snoball stands popping up throughout the city during the hot summer months. Many of these stands are family-owned businesses that have been passed down from generation to generation, and they all have their own unique flavors and techniques.
One of the most famous snoball stands in New Orleans is Hansen’s Sno-Bliz, which was founded by Ernest Hansen’s granddaughter, Ashley Hansen, and her husband, Drew. The stand has been serving up delicious snoballs since 1939 and has won numerous awards for its unique flavors and high-quality ingredients.
Today, the snoball is a quintessential part of New Orleans culture, and it continues to be enjoyed by locals and visitors alike. From classic flavors like strawberry and pineapple to more exotic combinations like wedding cake and blueberry basil, there’s a snoball for everyone in the Big Easy. So next time you’re in town, be sure to stop by a snoball stand and indulge in this delicious and refreshing treat!
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