Authentic Vietnamese Red Bean Dessert Soup (Chè Đậu Đỏ) Recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 cup of red beans
  • 5 cups of water
  • 1 cup of sugar
  • 1 can of coconut milk (13.5 ounces)
  • 1/2 cup of tapioca pearls
  • 1/2 teaspoon of salt
  • 1/2 cup of crushed ice (optional)

Steps and instructions

  1. Rinse the red beans under cold water, then drain.
  2. In a large pot, combine the red beans with the water. Bring to a boil over high heat.
  3. Once boiling, lower the heat to medium and let the beans simmer for about 90 minutes, or until they are soft and plump.
  4. Add the sugar and salt to the pot, stirring until they are fully dissolved.
  5. Next, pour in the coconut milk and let the mixture return to a simmer.
  6. While the mixture is heating, soak the tapioca pearls in cold water for about 15 minutes.
  7. Drain the tapioca pearls then add them to the pot. Stir gently to prevent them from sticking to the bottom.
  8. Let the mixture cook for another 15 minutes, or until the tapioca pearls become translucent.
  9. Optional: To serve chilled, let the mixture cool down then add crushed ice.
  10. Serve this sweet dessert soup either warm or chilled, as desired.

Tools for making

  • Large pot - needed to cook the red beans and make the dessert soup
  • Strainer - used to rinse the red beans and drain them
  • Measuring cup - required to accurately measure the ingredients
  • Wooden spoon - ideal for stirring the red beans and other ingredients
  • Saucepan - used to soak and cook the tapioca pearls
  • Knife - needed to crush the ice, if desired

Recipe variations

  • Add a pandan leaf or pandan essence to infuse a subtle aroma into the dessert.
  • Replace red beans with mung beans for a different flavor and texture.
  • Use different types of beans such as black beans or kidney beans.
  • Experiment with different sweeteners like palm sugar or condensed milk.
  • Add cooked sticky rice to create a thicker and more filling dessert.
  • Include cooked taro or sweet potatoes for added texture and flavor.
  • Add a splash of rose water or almond extract for a unique twist.
  • Garnish with toasted sesame seeds or crushed peanuts for added crunch.
  • For a vegan version, substitute the regular milk with plant-based milk like almond milk or soy milk.
  • Make it a savory version by reducing the sugar and adding a pinch of salt and coconut cream instead of coconut milk.

Recipe overview

Chè Đậu Đỏ, or Vietnamese Red Bean Dessert Soup, is a delightful sweet treat that's both nourishing and comforting. Originating from Vietnam, this dessert features red beans, creamy coconut milk, and chewy tapioca pearls for a memorable blend of textures. Cooking these ingredients together results in a sweet, creamy soup that's satisfying and surprisingly light. Chè Đậu Đỏ can be enjoyed hot on a chilly day, or chilled for a refreshing dessert during warmer months. This recipe takes about two hours to prepare and cook, but the end result is well worth the time and effort. Whether you've tried this dessert before or are just now discovering it, this recipe will guide you through the process of creating your own delicious Chè Đậu Đỏ at home. Enjoy!

Common questions

  1. Can I use canned red beans instead of cooking them from scratch?
  2. Yes, you can use canned red beans instead of cooking them from scratch. Simply drain and rinse the canned beans before adding them to the pot in step 2.
  3. Can I use a different type of bean?
  4. While traditionally Chè Đậu Đỏ is made with red beans, you can experiment with other types of beans such as black beans or mung beans. However, keep in mind that the taste and texture may vary.
  5. Can I reduce the amount of sugar?
  6. Yes, you can reduce the amount of sugar according to your personal preference. Start with a smaller amount and gradually add more if needed, tasting as you go.
  7. What if I can't find tapioca pearls?
  8. If you can't find tapioca pearls, you can substitute them with other types of chewy pearls like sago pearls or even small-sized glutinous rice balls.
  9. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
  10. Yes, you can make Chè Đậu Đỏ ahead of time. After cooking, let it cool down and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can be reheated or served chilled when ready to enjoy.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Large pot - Used for boiling the red beans and cooking the dessert soup.
  • Spoon - For stirring the ingredients in the pot.
  • Measuring cup - Used to measure the red beans, sugar, coconut milk, and tapioca pearls.
  • Strainer - Needed to rinse the red beans and drain the soaked tapioca pearls.
  • Bowl - For soaking the tapioca pearls in water.
  • Serving bowls - Used to serve the Chè Đậu Đỏ dessert soup.
  • Crushed ice maker (optional) - If serving the dessert soup chilled, a crushed ice maker can be used to add crushed ice.

Origin stories

Chè Đậu Đỏ, or Vietnamese Red Bean Dessert, is a beloved dish from Vietnam, highlighting the country's affinity for sweet dessert soups. The use of red beans in a dessert may seem unusual to some, but it is a common ingredient in East Asian desserts, believed to have been influenced by Chinese culinary practices. The addition of coconut milk, a staple in Southeast Asian cooking, and tapioca pearls, gives the dessert a unique tropical twist. Traditionally, this dessert is enjoyed either hot or chilled, depending on the weather. It's a testament to the Vietnamese ability to create delightful and complex dishes out of simple, readily available ingredients.

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.