Authentic Vietnamese Chè Mè Recipe: A Sweet Sesame Dessert Delight

Ingredients

  • 1 cup of black sesame seeds
  • 4 cups of water
  • 1 cup of glutinous rice
  • 1.5 cups of sugar
  • 1 can of coconut milk (400ml)
  • 2 tbsp of tapioca starch
  • 1 pinch of salt

Steps and instructions

  1. Rinse the black sesame seeds under cold water and then transfer them to a pan.
  2. Toast the sesame seeds over medium heat. Stir them constantly for about 10 minutes until they start popping and become fragrant. Let them cool down.
  3. Grind the cooled sesame seeds in a blender or food processor until they become a fine powder.
  4. Rinse the glutinous rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in water for at least 3 hours or overnight.
  5. After soaking, drain the rice and transfer it to a blender or food processor. Blend until you achieve a smooth paste.
  6. In a large pot, combine the sesame seed powder, rice paste, sugar, salt and 4 cups of water. Stir well until the sugar is dissolved.
  7. Place the pot over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring often to prevent the mixture from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
  8. In a separate bowl, mix the tapioca starch with a little bit of cold water to make a thin paste.
  9. Slowly pour the tapioca paste into the pot, stirring constantly. Continue cooking for about 10 minutes until the mixture thickens.
  10. Finally, add the coconut milk and cook for another 5 minutes. Stir well to combine everything.
  11. Remove the pot from the heat and let the Chè Mè cool down a bit before serving.

Tools for making

  • Blender or food processor - Used to grind the black sesame seeds and blend the glutinous rice.
  • Pan - Used to toast the black sesame seeds.
  • Large pot - Used to cook the Chè Mè mixture.
  • Stove - Used to heat the pot and simmer the Chè Mè mixture.
  • Spoon or spatula - Used to stir and mix the ingredients while cooking.
  • Bowl - Used to mix the tapioca starch with water to make a paste.

Recipe variations

  • Instead of black sesame seeds, you can use white sesame seeds to make a white sesame Chè Mè.
  • For a nutty flavor, you can replace the sesame seeds with ground peanuts or almond powder.
  • To add a fruity twist, you can incorporate diced mangoes or strawberries into the Chè Mè.
  • For a creamier texture, you can use condensed milk instead of coconut milk.
  • To make it vegan, substitute the regular sugar with a plant-based sweetener like agave syrup or maple syrup.
  • If you prefer a gluten-free version, you can use tapioca flour or rice flour instead of glutinous rice.
  • Add a hint of floral aroma by infusing the Chè Mè with pandan leaves or rose water.
  • For a crunchy element, you can sprinkle toasted sesame seeds or crushed nuts on top before serving.
  • Experiment with different toppings such as coconut flakes, chia seeds, or fresh fruit slices.

Recipe overview

Chè Mè, also known as Black Sesame Soup, is a delightful and flavorsome dessert that originates from Vietnam. This traditional dessert is renowned for its unique combination of black sesame seeds and glutinous rice, providing a rich, nutty flavor, and a creamy texture that is both comforting and satisfying. In this recipe, you will be guided through a step-by-step process on how to create this wonderful treat right in your own kitchen. From toasting and grinding sesame seeds to achieving the perfect consistency with your rice paste, each step is carefully detailed to ensure a successful result. Expect to work with fragrant ingredients and experience a blend of both sweet and savory flavors. The process is a bit meticulous, but incredibly rewarding, especially once you taste the final product. The overall prep and cook time is approximately 30 minutes, excluding the time for soaking the rice. So, if you're looking for a unique and flavorful dessert to try, Chè Mè is a fantastic choice.

Common questions

  1. Can I use white sesame seeds instead of black sesame seeds? No, black sesame seeds are essential for the distinctive flavor and color of Chè Mè.
  2. Can I use regular rice instead of glutinous rice? No, glutinous rice provides the sticky texture that is characteristic of Chè Mè. Regular rice will not yield the same results.
  3. Can I use another type of sweetener instead of sugar? While sugar is traditionally used in Chè Mè, you can experiment with alternative sweeteners such as honey or agave syrup, adjusting the amount to taste.
  4. Is it necessary to soak the glutinous rice before blending? Yes, soaking the rice helps soften it and allows for easier blending into a smooth paste.
  5. Can I skip toasting the sesame seeds? Toasting the sesame seeds enhances their flavor. Skipping this step may result in a less flavorful Chè Mè.
  6. How long does Chè Mè need to cool before serving? Chè Mè should be allowed to cool for at least 15-20 minutes before serving. It can also be chilled in the refrigerator for a few hours for a refreshing treat.

Serving dishes and utensils

Origin stories

Chè Mè, a delightful Vietnamese dessert, is a testament to the country's history of agricultural strength and ingenuity in the kitchen. Originating from the fertile lands of Vietnam where rice and sesame seeds are abundant, this sweet soup, like many other dishes of the region, is a reflection of the resourcefulness of its people. The black sesame seeds and glutinous rice, staple ingredients in many Asian cuisines, are transformed into a comforting dessert that's not just scrumptious but also packed with nutritional benefits. While the original recipe has endured the test of time, in modern Vietnamese households, one might find variations of this dessert, sometimes infused with other local flavors, but always maintaining the essence of the classic Chè Mè.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.