How to Make Fruit-Based Desserts from Vietnam

Vietnam is famous for its vibrant culinary scene, and its fruit-based desserts are a delightful showcase of tropical flavors. These desserts combine local fruits with traditional recipes, making them not only delicious but also visually stunning. Here’s a guide on how to make some popular Vietnamese fruit-based desserts in your own kitchen.

1. Che Ba Mau (Three Color Dessert)

Che Ba Mau, also known as the Three Color Dessert, is a popular Vietnamese sweet treat that features layers of colorful beans, coconut milk, and fresh fruits.

Ingredients:

  • Red beans (cooked and sweetened)
  • Yellow mung beans (cooked and sweetened)
  • Green jelly or pandan jelly
  • Coconut milk
  • Ice cubes
  • Fresh fruits (like mango or longan, optional)

Instructions:

  1. In small cups, layer the red beans followed by the yellow mung beans.
  2. Add a layer of green jelly on top.
  3. Pour in some coconut milk over the layers.
  4. Top with ice cubes and fresh fruits if desired.
  5. Serve cold and enjoy the textures and colors!

2. Sinh To (Fruit Smoothies)

Sinh To is a refreshing Vietnamese fruit smoothie that can be made with various fruits, offering a perfect way to beat the heat.

Ingredients:

  • Fresh fruit (mango, banana, or avocado)
  • Coconut milk or yogurt
  • Sweetened condensed milk
  • Ice cubes

Instructions:

  1. In a blender, combine your choice of fresh fruit with coconut milk or yogurt.
  2. Add a drizzle of sweetened condensed milk for sweetness.
  3. Include ice cubes for a chilled smoothie.
  4. Blend until smooth, then pour into glasses and serve immediately.

3. Banh Chuoi Nuong (Baked Banana Cake)

Banh Chuoi Nuong is a delicious Vietnamese baked banana cake that is moist, sweet, and infused with coconut flavor.

Ingredients:

  • Ripe bananas
  • Coconut milk
  • Condensed milk
  • All-purpose flour
  • Cooking oil
  • Eggs

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
  2. In a bowl, mash the ripe bananas and mix with coconut milk, sweetened condensed milk, and eggs.
  3. Add the flour and mix until well combined.
  4. Grease a baking dish with cooking oil and pour the batter into the dish.
  5. Bake for about 30-40 minutes or until golden brown on top.
  6. Let cool before slicing and serving.

4. Fresh Fruit with Sticky Rice (Xoi Dua)

Xoi Dua is a simple yet delightful dish that combines sticky rice with fresh tropical fruits, often enjoyed as a dessert or snack.

Ingredients:

  • Glutinous rice
  • Coconut milk
  • Salt
  • Your choice of fresh fruit (mango, papaya, or jackfruit)

Instructions:

  1. Soak the glutinous rice in water for a few hours, then steam until cooked.
  2. Mix steamed rice with coconut milk and a pinch of salt.
  3. Serve warm sticky rice topped with slices of your favorite fresh fruit.

These traditional Vietnamese fruit-based desserts are not only easy to make but also a delightful way to experience the tropical flavors of Vietnam. Try them out to impress your family and friends with these exotic delicacies! Enjoy the vibrant tastes and textures that each dessert brings to the table.