How to Make Delicious Fruit-Based Desserts Inspired by Vietnam

Vietnamese cuisine is renowned for its vibrant flavors, fresh ingredients, and unique dessert options that harness the natural sweetness of fruits. If you're a fan of fruit-based desserts, you’ll love exploring some traditional Vietnamese recipes. Below are steps to create delicious fruit-based desserts that will transport you to the bustling streets of Vietnam.

1. Che Ba Mau (Vietnamese Three-Color Dessert)

Che Ba Mau, or Three-Color Dessert, is a harmonious blend of beans, coconut milk, and colorful jelly that is both refreshing and satisfying.

  • Ingredients: Mung beans, red beans, black-eyed peas, pandan jelly, coconut milk, ice, sugar.
  • Preparation Steps:
  • Soak mung beans and red beans overnight; cook until soft.
  • Prepare pandan jelly according to package instructions and cut into small cubes.
  • Layer the beans, jelly, and crushed ice in a glass.
  • Pour coconut milk over the top, sweetening to taste.

Enjoy your Che Ba Mau chilled for a refreshing indulgence!

2. Sinh To (Vietnamese Fruit Smoothie)

For a quick and healthy dessert, Sinh To is a perfect choice. This fruit smoothie is versatile and can be made with a variety of tropical fruits.

  • Ingredients: Fresh fruits (bananas, mango, or lychees), yogurt or condensed milk, ice, and a hint of honey.
  • Preparation Steps:
  • In a blender, combine your chosen fruits, yogurt or condensed milk, and a dash of honey.
  • Add ice and blend until smooth.
  • Pour into glasses and serve immediately. Garnish with fruit slices.

This smoothie is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients!

3. Banh Chuoi Nuong (Grilled Banana Cake)

This traditional Vietnamese dessert features ripe bananas and is an excellent way to use up any overripe fruit.

  • Ingredients: Ripe bananas, coconut milk, tapioca flour, sugar, pandan leaves.
  • Preparation Steps:
  • Preheat your grill or oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas and add coconut milk, sugar, and tapioca flour.
  • Mix until you have a smooth batter, then pour it into a greased baking dish.
  • Bake for 30 minutes, or until golden brown on top. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Banh Chuoi Nuong is perfect for those craving a cozy, sweet treat.

4. Fruit Salad with Coconut Cream

This simple yet delightful dessert is a staple in Vietnam, and it’s incredibly easy to customize based on your favorite fruits.

  • Ingredients: Seasonal fruits (such as lychees, mangoes, and jackfruit), coconut cream, sugar, and crushed ice.
  • Preparation Steps:
  • Chop your chosen fruits into bite-sized pieces.
  • In a bowl, mix coconut cream with a bit of sugar to taste.
  • In serving bowls, layer the fruits and pour the sweet coconut cream over them.
  • Top with crushed ice for a refreshing crunch.

This fruit salad is a colorful and healthy dessert option.

5. Sticky Rice with Mango (Xôi Xoài)

Xôi Xoài is a beloved dessert that combines sweet sticky rice with ripe mango and coconut sauce, evoking the flavors of Vietnam.

  • Ingredients: Glutinous rice, ripe mangoes, coconut milk, sugar, and sesame seeds.
  • Preparation Steps:
  • Soak glutinous rice for a few hours, then steam until cooked and sticky.
  • Mix coconut milk with sugar and heat until the sugar dissolves.
  • To serve, place a portion of sticky rice on a plate, top with sliced mango, and drizzle with coconut sauce. Sprinkle with