Vietnamese dessert recipes offer a tantalizing array of flavors and textures that are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. From refreshing and light dishes to indulgent and rich treats, Vietnamese desserts encompass a wide range of options that cater to different tastes. Whether you’re a fan of fruity delights, creamy concoctions, or sticky rice creations, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant culinary tradition.
Vietnamese Dessert Recipes
One popular Vietnamese dessert is chè, a sweet soup made with various ingredients such as beans, fruits, jelly, and coconut milk. Chè comes in countless variations, each boasting its own unique combination of flavors and toppings. It’s not uncommon to find ingredients like mung beans, tapioca pearls, pandan jelly, or even durian in these delightful bowls of goodness. The contrast between the warm soup base and the cool toppings creates a pleasant temperature juxtaposition that adds an extra layer of enjoyment.
Another beloved Vietnamese treat is bánh flan – a silky smooth caramel custard reminiscent of its French cousin crème caramel. Bánh flan is made by pouring a mixture of eggs, condensed milk, vanilla extract over hot caramelized sugar before baking it until set. The end result is an elegant dessert with a luscious texture and a subtle sweetness that melts in your mouth. It’s often served chilled and garnished with fresh fruit or drizzled with additional caramel sauce for added decadence.
Delicious Che Ba Mau Recipe
Let’s start our exploration of traditional Vietnamese dessert recipes with the delicious Che Ba Mau. This colorful and refreshing dessert is a delightful combination of sweet beans, coconut milk, and jelly cubes. It’s a treat for both the eyes and the taste buds.
To make Che Ba Mau, you’ll need:
- 1 cup of cooked mung beans
- 1 cup of red beans
- 1 cup of black-eyed peas
- 4 cups of water
- 1 can of coconut milk
- ½ cup of sugar
- A small amount of agar agar (jelly) cubes for garnish
Here’s how to prepare it:
- Rinse the mung beans, red beans, and black-eyed peas thoroughly.
- In separate pots, cook each type of bean with 2 cups of water until they are tender.
- Drain the cooked beans and set them aside.
- In another pot, bring the remaining 2 cups of water to a boil.
- Add sugar to the boiling water and stir until dissolved.
- Reduce heat to low and add coconut milk; simmer gently for about 5 minutes.
- Divide the cooked beans into three equal portions and place them in separate bowls.
- Pour one-third of the coconut milk mixture over each portion.
- Allow it to cool before refrigerating for at least an hour.
- Serve chilled with garnishes such as agar agar cubes or crushed ice.
Che Ba Mau is not only visually appealing but also offers a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that will surely satisfy your cravings.
Easy-to-Make Banh Flan Recipe
Another classic Vietnamese dessert that you shouldn’t miss is Banh Flan, a creamy caramel flan with a Vietnamese twist! This silky smooth custard dessert has become incredibly popular, both in Vietnam and beyond.
To make Banh Flan, you’ll need:
- 4 eggs
- 1 can of sweetened condensed milk
- 2 cans of fresh milk (use the empty condensed milk can to measure)
- ½ cup of sugar (for caramel)
- A pinch of salt
- Vanilla extract (optional)
Here’s how to prepare it:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Start by making the caramel: In a small saucepan, melt the sugar over medium heat until it turns golden brown.
- Carefully pour the caramel into individual ramekins or a large baking dish, swirling it around to coat the bottom evenly.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, condensed milk, fresh milk, salt, and vanilla extract (if desired) until well combined.
- Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to ensure a smooth texture.
- Pour the custard mixture into each ramekin or baking dish on top of the caramel layer.
- Place the ramekins or baking dish in a larger pan filled with hot water halfway up their sides (this creates a water bath).
- Bake for about 45 minutes or until set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
- Remove from the oven and let them cool completely before refrigerating for at least two hours.
- To serve, run a knife around the edges of each flan and invert onto serving plates.
Banh Flan is an elegant dessert that will impress your guests with its velvety texture and rich flavor profile.
Whether you choose Che Ba Mau or Banh Flan, these traditional Vietnamese dessert recipes are sure to please your palate with their unique flavors and cultural significance. Give them a try and enjoy indulging in these delectable treats!
Bob Duncan is the lead writer and partner on ConversationsWithBianca.com. A passionate parent, he’s always excited to dive into the conversation about anything from parenting, food & drink, travel, to gifts & more!