How to Make Authentic Vietnamese Fruit Desserts

Vietnamese fruit desserts are a delightful way to enjoy the vibrant flavors of tropical fruits. These desserts are not only refreshing but also easy to prepare at home. Follow these simple steps to create authentic Vietnamese fruit desserts that will impress your family and friends.

1. Chè Sầu Riêng (Durian Sweet Soup)

Chè sầu riêng is a unique Vietnamese dessert that combines the rich flavor of durian with coconut milk, sugar, and tapioca pearls.

  • Ingredients:
    • 1 cup durian flesh
    • ½ cup tapioca pearls
    • 2 cups coconut milk
    • 1 cup sugar
    • Pinch of salt

Instructions:

  1. Soak the tapioca pearls in water for 30 minutes and then drain.
  2. In a pot, combine coconut milk, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Heat over medium until sugar dissolves.
  3. Add the soaked tapioca pearls to the pot and cook until they become transparent, about 10 minutes.
  4. Remove from heat and fold in the durian flesh until well combined.
  5. Serve warm or chilled.

2. Trái Cây Dằm (Mixed Fruit Salad)

Trái cây dằm is a refreshing and colorful fruit salad that showcases a variety of tropical fruits topped with coconut milk and crushed ice.

  • Ingredients:
    • 1 banana, sliced
    • 1 mango, diced
    • 1 cup watermelon, cubed
    • 1 cup pineapple, diced
    • ½ cup coconut milk
    • Ice, crushed
    • Sugar (to taste)

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, combine all the fruits.
  2. Drizzle coconut milk over the fruit salad and add sugar according to your taste.
  3. Mix gently to combine all ingredients.
  4. Serve over a bowl of crushed ice for a refreshing treat.

3. Bánh Chuối Nướng (Baked Banana Cake)

Bánh chuối nướng is a baked banana dessert that pairs well with coconut sauce for a delightful finish.

  • Ingredients:
    • 4 ripe bananas, mashed
    • 1 cup coconut milk
    • 1 cup flour
    • ½ cup sugar
    • 2 eggs
    • 1 tsp vanilla extract
    • Pinch of salt

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a bowl, mix mashed bananas, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
  3. Add flour, coconut milk, and salt, mixing until well combined.
  4. Pour the batter into a greased baking dish and bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown.
  5. Let it cool before serving. Drizzle with additional coconut milk if desired.

4. Sinh Tố (Vietnamese Fruit Smoothie)

Vietnamese smoothies, or sinh tố, are thick, creamy, and made with various fruits, yogurt, and condensed milk.

  • Ingredients:
    • 1 ripe avocado
    • 1 banana
    • 1 cup coconut milk
    • 2 tablespoons sweetened condensed milk
    • Ice cubes

Instructions:

  1. In a blender, combine avocado, banana, coconut milk, condensed milk, and ice cubes.
  2. Blend until smooth and creamy.