Che
Che is a family of Vietnamese sweet soups and puddings made with beans, jellies, fruit, tapioca pearls, and coconut milk. It can be served warm or over ice.
Chè xoài: Mạnh An, CC BY-SA 3.0 (Wikimedia Commons)
Where it comes from
Che is enjoyed all over Vietnam, with each region offering its own toppings. Street vendors and dessert shops serve it in glasses, and families make simple versions at home.
Explore the cuisine of Vietnam.
Recipe
Make Che at home
Ingredients
- 1 cup split mung beans, rinsed
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1 can (13 oz) coconut milk
- Pinch of salt
- 1/2 cup small tapioca pearls, cooked
- 1 pandan leaf (optional)
- Crushed ice
- Toasted sesame seeds or peanuts
How it's made
- Steam or simmer the mung beans in water until soft, about 20 minutes, and mash lightly.
- Simmer the beans with sugar, pandan, and 2 cups water until thick and sweet.
- Warm the coconut milk with a pinch of salt until just steaming.
- Cook the tapioca pearls until translucent and drain.
- Spoon beans and tapioca into glasses.
- Pour coconut sauce on top and add ice for a cold version.
- Sprinkle with sesame seeds or peanuts.
Variations
- Che ba mau: three-color dessert with beans, pandan jelly, and coconut
- Che chuoi: banana and tapioca in coconut milk
- Che thai: fruit and jelly with coconut milk
Cook’s tip: Cook toppings separately so each keeps its own color and texture.
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About this page
Description and method written by Intercontinental Chef. Home-style method; quantities are a starting point, so adjust to taste.
Photo credit
- Chè xoài: Mạnh An, CC BY-SA 3.0 (Wikimedia Commons)