How to Make Vietnamese Lotus Seed Desserts

Vietnamese lotus seed desserts are a delightful way to experience traditional Vietnamese flavors while enjoying the health benefits of lotus seeds. These desserts are often light, subtly sweet, and packed with nutrition. Below is a comprehensive guide on how to make popular Vietnamese lotus seed desserts, ensuring you can recreate these treats at home.

What Are Lotus Seeds?

Lotus seeds are the edible seeds of the lotus flower, which is revered in Vietnamese culture. Known for their health benefits, these seeds are low in calories and high in protein, fiber, and antioxidants. They are also consumed for their calming effects and are believed to aid digestion.

Popular Vietnamese Lotus Seed Desserts

There are various ways to use lotus seeds in desserts, but the most popular include:

  • Lotus Seed Sweet Soup (Chè Hạt Sen)
  • Lotus Seed and Coconut Milk Pudding
  • Steamed Lotus Seed Buns

Lotus Seed Sweet Soup (Chè Hạt Sen)

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup dried lotus seeds
  • 4 cups water
  • 1 cup coconut milk
  • ¾ cup sugar (adjust to taste)
  • Pinch of salt
  • Optional: pandan leaves for flavor

Instructions:

  1. Soak the dried lotus seeds overnight in water to soften them.
  2. Drain and rinse the seeds, remove any green germ in the middle if desired.
  3. In a pot, combine lotus seeds and 4 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let simmer for about 30 minutes or until the seeds are tender.
  4. Add sugar, a pinch of salt, and pandan leaves (if using) to the pot. Stir well until the sugar dissolves.
  5. Pour in the coconut milk and simmer for another 5-10 minutes, adjusting the sweetness as needed.
  6. Serve warm or chilled, garnished with more coconut milk if desired.

Lotus Seed and Coconut Milk Pudding

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup lotus seeds
  • 1 can (400ml) coconut milk
  • 1/2 cup sugar (or to taste)
  • 1/4 cup tapioca pearls
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • Water for cooking

Instructions:

  1. Soak lotus seeds for at least 3-4 hours, then drain and rinse.
  2. In a pot, boil the lotus seeds in water until tender, approximately 30 minutes.
  3. In another pot, cook the tapioca pearls in boiling water until they become translucent, then drain and rinse.
  4. Combine boiled lotus seeds, coconut milk, sugar, and salt in a pot. Stir well and heat gently until the sugar dissolves.
  5. Add the cooked tapioca pearls and mix thoroughly.
  6. Pour the mixture into serving bowls or molds and refrigerate until set.
  7. Serve chilled, optionally garnishing with toasted coconut flakes.

Steamed Lotus Seed Buns

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup lotus seed paste (homemade or store-bought)
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 1 teaspoon yeast
  • 1/2 cup warm water
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

Instructions:

  1. Activate the yeast by mixing it with warm water and sugar, letting it sit for about 10 minutes until bubbly.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine flour and activated yeast mixture. Knead in vegetable oil until a smooth dough forms.
  3. Cover and let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
  4. Once risen