Welcome to the wonderful world of Vietnamese desserts! Today, we’re diving into a delightful treat called Che Ba Mau, also known as Three-Color Dessert. This colorful dish is not just a feast for the eyes; it’s a delicious combination of flavors that captures the essence of Vietnamese cuisine.
Che Ba Mau has a rich cultural and historical significance in Vietnam. Traditionally, it is made to celebrate special occasions and is often enjoyed during family gatherings. The bright colors and sweet taste make it a popular choice among both children and adults. Its appeal lies in its unique combination of ingredients, which creates a satisfying texture and a burst of flavors in every spoonful.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
| Red beans | 1 cup (cooked) |
| Yellow mung beans | 1 cup (cooked) |
| Green jelly (agar-agar) | 1 cup (diced) |
| Coconut milk | 1 can (400ml) |
| Sugar | 1/2 cup (adjust to taste) |
| Ice | As needed |
| Water | 3 cups |
If you can’t find red beans, you can use black beans as an alternative. For the jelly, try using green food coloring if agar-agar is unavailable.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Red Beans: Soak 1 cup of red beans overnight, then cook them in boiling water until soft. This usually takes about 1-2 hours.
- Prepare the Yellow Mung Beans: Soak 1 cup of mung beans for 1 hour, then steam or cook them until they are soft. This takes about 20-30 minutes.
- Make Green Jelly: Dissolve agar-agar powder in 3 cups of boiling water, add sugar to taste, and mix well. Pour the mixture into a tray and let it set in the fridge. Once firm, cut it into small cubes.
- Prepare Coconut Milk: In a saucepan, heat the coconut milk and mix in some sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves, and let it cool.
- Assemble the Dessert: In a glass, layer the red beans, mung beans, and green jelly. Pour the sweetened coconut milk over the layers.
- Serve: Add crushed ice on top and enjoy your Che Ba Mau chilled!
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount | Daily Value (%) |
| Calories | 300 | 15% |
| Protein | 6g | 12% |
| Carbohydrates | 60g | 20% |
| Fats | 10g | 15% |
| Sugars | 25g | N/A |
| Fiber | 5g | 20% |
Tips and Tricks
- Don’t Rush: Allow enough time for the jelly to set properly; this will make serving much easier.
- Customize: Feel free to add fruits like jackfruit or mango for extra flavor.
- Sweetness Level: Adjust the sugar in the coconut milk according to your taste.
- Chill It! For a colder treat, let the dessert chill in the fridge before serving.
FAQs
What is Che Ba Mau?
Che Ba Mau is a traditional Vietnamese dessert made with layers of beans, jelly, and coconut milk, known for its vibrant colors and sweet flavors.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the components ahead of time and assemble them right before serving for the best experience.
What can I substitute for agar-agar?
If agar-agar is unavailable, you can use gelatin as a substitute, but it will change the texture slightly.
Is Che Ba Mau vegan?
Yes, this dessert is vegan as it is primarily made with plant-based ingredients.
How do I store leftover Che Ba Mau?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The jelly may lose some texture but will still taste great.
Can I add more colors?
Absolutely! You can use food coloring to create different colored jellies or even add fruits for more variety.
Is it possible to make Che Ba Mau sugar-free?
Yes, you can use sugar substitutes like stevia or monk fruit sweetener to make a sugar-free version.
Can I use canned beans?
Yes, canned beans can be used to save time, just rinse them well before using.
What kind of ice should I use?
Crushed ice works best, but you can also use ice cubes, depending on your preference.
Can I make Che Ba Mau in large batches?
Definitely! This recipe can be easily doubled or tripled for parties or special occasions.
Enjoy making and sharing this beautiful dessert! Whether it’s for a celebration or just a treat for yourself, Che Ba Mau will surely impress and delight everyone who tries it.
