With its gentle sweetness and soft, creamy texture, Chè Đậu Xanh is a dessert that feels like a warm hug. This traditional Vietnamese mung bean sweet soup combines mung beans and coconut milk for a dessert that’s both nourishing and delicious. Discover how to make this easy dish that’s perfect for cooling down in summer or warming up in winter.
Ingredients
- 200g mung beans (soaked overnight and drained)
- 1 liter water
- 200g sugar
- 400ml coconut milk
- Pinch of salt
- Optional: small tapioca pearls for extra texture
These ingredients create a creamy, sweet soup that is both simple and satisfying. The rich coconut milk pairs beautifully with the soft mung beans.
Instructions
- Prepare Mung Beans:
- Soak mung beans overnight. Drain and rinse.
- Cooking:
- Combine mung beans with water in a saucepan. Bring to a boil.
- Simmer:
- Reduce heat to low, add sugar, and simmer for 45 minutes until tender.
- Finish:
- Stir in coconut milk and salt. Optional: add tapioca pearls. Let it cool before serving.
Each step ensures you achieve a smooth, flavorful dessert.
Tasting Notes
Chè Đậu Xanh offers a harmonious blend of sweetness from sugar and the creamy richness of coconut milk. The mung beans provide a slight nutty flavor and a soft texture.
When tasting, notice the balance between the soft beans and the light chewiness of optional tapioca pearls. The dessert is not overly sweet, allowing the coconut to shine.
Similar Desserts
In Vietnamese cuisine, several desserts share similarities with Chè Đậu Xanh. For instance, Chè Trôi Nước offers glutinous rice balls in sweet ginger syrup.
Chè Ba Màu, known as three-color dessert, layers various ingredients, including beans. Each echoes Chè Đậu Xanh’s texture and sweetness, yet they offer unique tastes and presentations.
History
Chè Đậu Xanh has deep roots in Vietnamese culture, often associated with traditional celebrations. It was traditionally prepared during Lunar New Year festivities and family gatherings.
This dessert reflects a blend of local ingredients and simple cooking techniques passed down through generations. The use of mung beans illustrates the resourcefulness and creativity in Vietnamese cooking.
Quick Pro Tips
- Consistency: Adjust water for desired thickness. Less water for thicker soup.
- Flavor Boost: Add vanilla or pandan leaf for extra aroma.
- Storage: Let the dessert cool before refrigerating. It thickens as it chills.
These tips ensure a perfect dessert with minimal effort.
When to Serve
Chè Đậu Xanh is versatile and suits various occasions. Serve it chilled on a hot day for a refreshing treat or warm during cooler months for comfort.
It’s a popular choice for festive events and family gatherings. Its comforting nature makes it an ideal dessert to conclude a meal or enjoy as a midday snack.
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