Delicious and Authentic Vietnamese Che Dessert: A Step-by-Step Recipe Guide

Ingredients

  • 1 cup of tapioca pearls
  • 1 cup of mung beans
  • 1/2 cup of kidney beans
  • 1/2 cup of black-eyed peas
  • 1 cup of sugar
  • 8 cups of water
  • 1 can of coconut milk
  • 1/2 cup of sweet rice
  • 1 cup of jellies or fruits (optional)
  • Crushed ice

Steps and instructions

  1. Soak the mung beans, kidney beans, and black-eyed peas in separate bowls of water overnight.
  2. Rinse the soaked beans and peas under cold water.
  3. Cook each type of bean separately in a pot of boiling water until they are soft. Drain and set aside.
  4. While the beans are cooking, cook the tapioca pearls according to the package instructions. Rinse under cold water and drain.
  5. In a separate pot, cook the sweet rice with 2 cups of water until it is soft and sticky.
  6. In a large pot, combine the cooked beans, peas, tapioca pearls, and sweet rice. Add the remaining water, coconut milk, and sugar. Stir well.
  7. Cook the mixture over medium heat for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
  8. Once the mixture has thickened to a creamy consistency, remove from heat and let it cool.
  9. Add jellies or fruits if desired.
  10. Serve the Che over crushed ice.

Tools for making

Recipe variations

  • Using different types of beans or legumes such as adzuki beans, chickpeas, or lentils.
  • Adding different flavors or extracts such as pandan, vanilla, or rose water.
  • Using alternative sweeteners like honey, maple syrup, or stevia instead of sugar.
  • Incorporating different types of jellies or fruits like mango, jackfruit, or lychee.
  • Adding a twist with toppings such as toasted coconut flakes, crushed peanuts, or sesame seeds.
  • Creating a vegan version by substituting the cow's milk in coconut milk with almond milk or soy milk.
  • Adding a touch of citrus flavor by squeezing in some lime or lemon juice.
  • Experimenting with different textures by blending some of the mixture to create a smoother consistency.
  • Including a layer of cooked taro or sweet potato for added flavor and texture.
  • Adding a hint of spice by incorporating ginger, cinnamon, or cardamom.

Recipe overview

Che is a delicious and refreshing Vietnamese dessert that is perfect for a warm summer day. This multi-textured dessert is loaded with a variety of mouthwatering ingredients like mung beans, kidney beans, black-eyed peas, and sweet rice. Added to this is the delightful chewiness of tapioca pearls and the rich creaminess of coconut milk. Optionally, you can also add jellies or fruits for extra flavor and texture. The process of making Che might seem a bit time-consuming, with all the soaking and separate cooking of the beans and pearls, but it's definitely worth the wait. The final product is a delightful mix that is served over crushed ice, making it a perfect cooling treat. From the sweetness of the sugar to the creaminess of the coconut milk and the chewiness of the pearls, this dessert is sure to tickle your taste buds. Prepare to be surprised and delighted by this unique Vietnamese dessert!

Common questions

  1. How long does it take to soak the beans and peas overnight? - Soak the beans and peas for approximately 8 hours or overnight.
  2. Can I use canned beans instead of cooking them from scratch? - While it's recommended to cook the beans from scratch for the best texture and flavor, you can use canned beans as a time-saving alternative. Just make sure to drain and rinse them before using.
  3. Can I use other types of beans or peas? - Yes, you can experiment with different types of beans or peas based on your preference. However, keep in mind that the cooking time may vary.
  4. How long does it take to cook the tapioca pearls? - Cook the tapioca pearls according to the package instructions, usually around 15-20 minutes.
  5. What if I don't have coconut milk? - If you don't have coconut milk, you can substitute it with regular milk or another plant-based milk of your choice. However, note that it will alter the flavor of the Che.
  6. Can I adjust the amount of sugar? - Yes, you can adjust the amount of sugar according to your taste preferences. Start with the recommended amount and add more if desired.
  7. Can I add different toppings or garnishes? - Absolutely! You can get creative with toppings and garnishes. Some popular choices include jellies, fruits, crushed peanuts, or coconut flakes.
  8. Can I make the Che ahead of time? - Yes, you can make the Che ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. It can be enjoyed chilled or reheated before serving.
  9. How long does the Che stay fresh? - The Che can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Serving dishes and utensils

Origin stories

Originating from the vibrant country of Vietnam, Che is a sweet dessert soup or pudding that is as diverse as the land it comes from. Across the diverse regions of Vietnam, from the bustling cities to the peaceful countryside, you'll find countless variations of Che. Each variant is a unique combination of ingredients that reflects the local tastes and available resources. Some versions are made with beans and grains, while others feature tropical fruits or even seaweed. Despite these variations, the foundation remains the same: a sweet and sometimes creamy base, served either hot or cold, often over ice, especially in the steamy summer months. It's more than just a dessert; it's a testament to the resourcefulness and creativity of Vietnamese cooking.

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.