How to Make Vietnamese Mixed Sweet Soup (Chè Thập Cẩm) - A Step-by-Step Guide

Introduction to Chè Thập Cẩm

Chè Thập Cẩm, or Vietnamese Mixed Sweet Soup, is a delicious and popular dessert that combines a variety of ingredients like red beans, mung beans, jelly, coconut milk, and more. This refreshing and nutritious dessert is perfect for hot days and is typically enjoyed with crushed ice to enhance its flavor. Let’s dive into the detailed recipe for this classic Vietnamese sweet treat!

Ingredients for Chè Thập Cẩm

1. Red beans: 100g
2. Mung beans (hulled): 100g
3. Sweet potatoes: 200g
4. Tapioca pearls: 50g
5. Jelly (agar or pandan jelly): 200g
6. Coconut milk: 300ml
7. Sugar: 200g
8. Condensed milk: 50ml
9. Roasted peanuts: 50g (for topping)
10. Shredded coconut or coconut flakes: 50g
11. Crushed ice: As needed
12. Vanilla extract: 1 small tube

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Chè Thập Cẩm

1. Cooking the Red Beans

• Soak the red beans in water for 4-6 hours or overnight to soften them.
• After soaking, drain and rinse the beans. Boil the beans in water until they become tender. Add 50g of sugar and stir until the beans absorb the sweetness. Simmer for another 10 minutes, then remove from heat and let cool.

2. Cooking the Mung Beans

• Soak the mung beans in water for 2-4 hours before cooking.
• Place the mung beans in a pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil, and cook until the beans are soft. Add 50g of sugar and stir. For a smoother texture, you can mash the beans.

3. Preparing the Sweet Potatoes

• Peel the sweet potatoes, wash them thoroughly, and cut them into small cubes.
• Steam or boil the sweet potatoes until tender, then mix them with 30g of sugar to enhance the flavor.

4. Cooking the Tapioca Pearls

• Soak the tapioca pearls in water for about 30 minutes.
• Boil water in a pot, add the tapioca pearls, and cook until they turn translucent. Once cooked, drain and rinse the pearls under cold water, then set them aside.

5. Preparing the Coconut Milk

• Pour the coconut milk into a pot and add 50g of sugar and a few drops of vanilla extract. Cook on low heat, stirring frequently until it thickens slightly. Remove from heat and let cool.

6. Making the Jelly

• You can either buy ready-made jelly or make your own using agar or pandan leaves for flavor. Follow the instructions on the jelly package and cut the jelly into small, bite-sized cubes once it’s set.

7. Assembling the Chè Thập Cẩm

• In a large serving bowl or cup, layer the ingredients: start with red beans, mung beans, sweet potatoes, tapioca pearls, and jelly. Pour coconut milk and a little condensed milk over the top.
• Add crushed ice and sprinkle roasted peanuts and shredded coconut (or coconut flakes) on top for extra crunch and flavor.

Serving and Enjoying Chè Thập Cẩm

Chè Thập Cẩm is best served cold with a generous amount of crushed ice. Mix all the ingredients well before enjoying the combination of textures and flavors, from the chewy beans and jelly to the creamy coconut milk and refreshing ice.

Tips for the Perfect Chè Thập Cẩm

• Soak the beans in advance to reduce cooking time and ensure a tender texture.
• Add natural food coloring like pandan leaves or beetroot for a more vibrant dish.
• For a richer flavor, you can add a little more coconut milk or condensed milk to your preference.
• Make sure to cook each ingredient separately to maintain the distinct taste and texture of each one.

Conclusion

Chè Thập Cẩm is a delightful and easy-to-make dessert that’s perfect for summer or anytime you want a refreshing, sweet treat. With this detailed guide, you can create this delicious Vietnamese dessert right at home and impress your family and friends. Enjoy the harmonious blend of flavors and textures in every bite!

Tags:

#VietnameseMixedSweetSoup #CheThapCam #VietnameseDessert #HowToMakeChe #MixedSweetSoup #VietnameseCuisine #SweetSoupRecipe #CheRecipe