Traditional Vietnamese Chè Ba Màu (Three Color Che) Recipe

Ingredients

1 cup of mung beans
1 cup of red beans
1 cup of agar agar jelly powder
1 can of coconut milk (400 ml)
1 cup of sugar
1 teaspoon of salt
8 cups of water
Ice cubes for serving

Steps and instructions

Rinse the mung beans and red beans under cold water until the water runs clear.
Soak the beans separately in plenty of water for at least 4 hours, or overnight is best.
Drain the beans, and in separate pots, cook the mung beans and the red beans with 4 cups of water each, until they are tender. This will take about an hour. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent the beans from sticking to the pot. Add more water if needed.
While the beans are cooking, prepare the agar agar jelly. In a pot, dissolve the agar agar powder in 4 cups of water. Bring to a boil while stirring constantly. Once it boils, reduce the heat to low, add 1/2 cup of sugar, and continue stirring until the sugar is completely dissolved.
Pour the mixture into a flat tray and let it cool down at room temperature. Once it's fully cooled, cut into small cubes.
When the beans are cooked, add 1/4 cup of sugar and 1/2 teaspoon of salt to each pot, stir well until the sugar and salt are fully dissolved. Let them cool down.
Put the can of coconut milk into a pot, add 1/4 cup of sugar and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Stir well and bring to a boil, then let it cool down.
To serve, add some red beans, mung beans, and jelly cubes into a glass. Pour in some coconut milk and add a few ice cubes. Stir well before drinking.

Tools for making

Mixing bowls - Used for soaking beans and mixing ingredients.
Pots - Used for cooking beans and preparing agar agar jelly.
Tray - Used for cooling and cutting agar agar jelly.
Knife - Used for cutting the agar agar jelly into cubes.
Spoon - Used for stirring beans, agar agar jelly, coconut milk, and sugar.
Glass - Used for serving the Chè Ba Màu.

Recipe variations

Use different types of beans or legumes such as kidney beans, black beans, or white beans.
Add cooked tapioca pearls for added texture.
Replace the agar agar jelly with grass jelly or basil seeds.
Experiment with different sweeteners such as palm sugar or honey instead of regular sugar.
Add diced fruits like mango, jackfruit, or lychee for a fruity twist.
Make it vegan-friendly by using a plant-based milk alternative instead of coconut milk.
Add a layer of pandan jelly or pandan-flavored coconut milk for an aromatic flavor.
Top with crushed peanuts or toasted sesame seeds for added crunch.
Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.

Recipe overview

Chè Ba Màu, often referred to as Three Color Dessert, is a popular and delightfully refreshing Vietnamese dessert. This recipe is a perfect blend of soft beans, sweet coconut milk, and chewy jelly that's served chilled, making it ideal for a hot summer day or as a light dessert after a hearty meal. This simple recipe takes you through the steps of preparing each layer of the dessert separately, and then combining them in a beautiful, colorful presentation. With flavors that are sweet and mildly savory, and textures that are both creamy and chewy, this traditional dessert is truly a treat for your taste buds. Enjoy the process of making it, and savor the unique combination of flavors and textures.

Common questions

Can I use canned beans instead of dried beans? No, it is best to use dried beans for this recipe. Canned beans may not have the same texture and can affect the overall taste of the dessert.
Can I use gelatin instead of agar agar? Yes, you can substitute agar agar with gelatin if you prefer. Follow the gelatin package instructions for the amount needed to set 4 cups of liquid.
Can I use a different type of bean or legume? Yes, you can experiment with different types of beans or legumes. However, keep in mind that it may change the flavor and color of the dessert.
Can I use a different type of milk? Yes, you can use alternative milk options such as almond milk or soy milk instead of coconut milk. However, it will alter the traditional taste of Chè Ba Màu.
How long can I store Chè Ba Màu? Chè Ba Màu is best enjoyed fresh. However, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the texture may change slightly upon refrigeration.
Can I add additional toppings or flavors? Yes, you can customize Chè Ba Màu by adding toppings such as sweetened condensed milk, coconut flakes, or crushed peanuts. You can also add flavors like pandan extract or vanilla extract to enhance the taste.

Serving dishes and utensils

Blender - For blending the cooked mung beans and red beans into a smooth paste.
Pot - For cooking the mung beans, red beans, and agar agar jelly.
Tray - For setting and cooling the agar agar jelly.
Knife - For cutting the agar agar jelly into small cubes.
Spoon - For stirring the beans, coconut milk, and agar agar jelly.
Glasses - For serving the Chè Ba Màu.

Origin stories

Chè Ba Màu, or three-color dessert, is a beloved staple in Vietnamese cuisine, particularly in the south of Vietnam. The dessert takes its name from the tri-colored ingredients used - red beans, mung beans, and green jelly, which together create a charming and visually appealing dish. This dish is traditionally enjoyed in the hot summer months, as it is served chilled and is known for its sweet and refreshing quality. The mix of textures from the soft beans and the crunchy jelly, combined with the creamy coconut milk, makes it a delightful experience. In Vietnamese culture, Chè Ba Màu is often enjoyed during family gatherings or celebrations, symbolizing unity, diversity, and the vibrancy of life. It is also a popular street food option, served in local markets and street corners, offering a sweet respite to locals and travelers alike.

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.