Chè

Chè is a term in Vietnamese cuisine that refers to any traditional Vietnamese sweet beverage, dessert soup or pudding. Varieties of Chè are made with mung beans, black-eyed peas, kidney beans, tapioca, jelly (clear or grass), fruit (longan, mango, durian, lychee or jackfruit), and coconut cream. Other types are made with ingredients such as salt, aloe vera, seaweed, lotus seed, sesame seed, sugar palm seeds, taro, cassava and pandan leaf extract. Some varieties, such as chè trôi nước, are also served hot.

Ingredients

The main ingredients of Chè are often glutinous rice, fruit, beans, and coconut milk, with the addition of sugar and other sweeteners. The ingredients used in Chè can vary greatly by region and personal preference.

Varieties

There are many varieties of Chè, each with its unique combination of ingredients and flavors. Some of the most popular varieties include:

• Chè ba màu: Also known as "three-color dessert," this variety includes red beans, mung beans, and green jelly with coconut milk.
• Chè bắp: Made with corn and sweet rice, this variety is often served hot.
• Chè chuối: This variety is made with bananas, tapioca pearls, and coconut milk.
• Chè đậu đỏ: Made with red beans and coconut milk, this variety is often served hot.
• Chè đậu xanh: This variety is made with mung beans and coconut milk.

Serving

Chè can be served either hot or cold, and is often enjoyed as a snack or dessert. It is commonly sold by street vendors in Vietnam, and is also a popular choice for home cooking.

Cultural Significance

Chè holds a significant place in Vietnamese culture. It is often served during festivals and special occasions, and is also a common offering at ancestral altars.

See Also

• Vietnamese cuisine
• Dessert soup
• Pudding
• Tapioca