Vietnamese cuisine is famous for its vibrant flavors, fresh ingredients, and mouthwatering desserts. Among the most beloved treats is chè a delightful, Vegan Vietnamese soup enjoyed across Vietnam. Whether served hot or cold, this dessert is a perfect blend of creamy coconut milk, chewy tapioca pearls, and naturally sweet ingredients like bananas, sweet potatoes, or mung beans.
If you’re looking for an easy vegan Vietnamese sweet soup dessert recipe, you’re in the right place! This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about chè, from its origins to the best ingredients, cooking tips, and variations. By the end of this article, you’ll be able to make a delicious, dairy-free Vietnamese dessert right at home.
Vietnamese Sweet Soup Desserts
What is Vietnamese Sweet Soup (Chè)?
In Vietnam, chè refers to a broad category of sweet soups and puddings made from plant-based ingredients. Unlike Western desserts, which often rely on heavy dairy or refined sugars, chè gets its rich flavor from coconut milk, pandan leaves, and natural sweeteners like ripe bananas or palm sugar.
There are countless varieties of chè, some featuring tapioca pearls, while others are made with mung beans, corn, or even jelly-like seaweed. Some are thick and creamy, while others are light and refreshing. No matter the type, chè is a comforting treat that can be enjoyed warm in winter or chilled during the hot summer months.
Why Choose a Vegan Version?
Traditional chè recipes sometimes include dairy-based ingredients, but it’s incredibly easy to make them fully plant-based. In fact, many authentic Vietnamese chè recipes are naturally vegan! By using coconut milk instead of dairy and swapping refined sugar for more natural alternatives, you get a healthier, lactose-free dessert without sacrificing taste.
A vegan version of chè also fits into a variety of dietary lifestyles it’s gluten-free, dairy-free, and packed with plant-based nutrients. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy a taste of Vietnam without needing any complicated ingredients.
Popular Vegan Sweet Soup Desserts in Vietnam
Vietnamese sweet soups come in many forms, but here are some of the most popular plant-based varieties:
- Chè Chuối (Banana Sweet Soup) – Made with ripe bananas, tapioca pearls, and creamy coconut milk, this is one of the easiest and most beloved types of chè.
- Chè Bắp (Sweet Corn Pudding) – This dessert features sweet corn, coconut milk, and pandan leaves, creating a perfect balance of sweetness and creaminess.
- Chè Đậu Xanh (Mung Bean Sweet Soup) – A nutritious and lightly sweet dessert made from mung beans, coconut cream, and a touch of sugar.
- Chè Khoai Lang (Sweet Potato Dessert Soup) – A rich and hearty dessert made with purple or yellow sweet potatoes, often paired with tapioca pearls for extra chewiness.
Each of these desserts offers a unique texture and flavor, but they all share the same comforting, lightly sweet taste that makes chè a favorite among dessert lovers.
Essential Ingredients for Vegan Vietnamese Sweet Soup
Making an easy vegan Vietnamese sweet soup dessert recipe starts with choosing the right ingredients. The best part? You don’t need anything fancy! Most of these ingredients are available at Asian grocery stores or even regular supermarkets.
Coconut Milk: The Key to Creamy Texture
One of the defining flavors of chè is coconut milk. It gives the dessert a rich, velvety texture and a slightly sweet, nutty taste. Many traditional Vietnamese desserts rely on coconut cream for thickness, but you can use full-fat coconut milk for a lighter version. If you want a thicker consistency, refrigerate the can and use only the solidified portion on top.
For the best flavor, look for unsweetened coconut milk without additives. If you prefer a homemade touch, blend fresh coconut meat with warm water and strain it to create fresh coconut milk.
Tapioca Pearls: Small but Important
Tapioca pearls add chewiness and make chè even more enjoyable. These tiny, translucent balls come in different sizes, but for most sweet soups, small pearls work best. You’ll need to cook them separately before adding them to your dessert to prevent clumping.
Here’s a quick tip: To cook tapioca pearls properly, boil them in water until they turn translucent, then rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process. This prevents them from getting too sticky.
Bananas, Corn, and Sweet Potatoes: Natural Sweetness
Instead of using artificial sweeteners, Vietnamese sweet soups often rely on naturally sweet ingredients like bananas, sweet corn, or sweet potatoes. These ingredients not only enhance flavor but also add texture.
- Bananas (especially ripe ones) give chè chuối its signature taste. The softer the banana, the sweeter your dessert will be.
- Sweet corn is perfect for chè bắp, offering a mix of crunchiness and sweetness.
- Sweet potatoes (either yellow or purple) add heartiness to desserts like chè khoai lang.
Pandan Leaves: A Traditional Fragrance Booster
If you’ve ever wondered why Vietnamese desserts have a subtle, floral aroma, it’s because of pandan leaves. These long, green leaves are often boiled in water to infuse a light, vanilla-like fragrance into dishes.
If you can’t find fresh pandan leaves, don’t worry! You can use frozen ones or pandan extract as a substitute. Just remember a little goes a long way!
Easy Vegan Vietnamese Sweet Soup Dessert Recipe
Ready to make a delicious, easy vegan Vietnamese sweet soup dessert recipe? Follow this simple guide, and in no time, you’ll have a warm, comforting dessert that’s both dairy-free and gluten-free.
Ingredients Needed
For this basic chè chuối (banana sweet soup), you’ll need:
- 2 ripe bananas, sliced
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 3 cups water
- ½ cup small tapioca pearls
- ¼ cup sugar (or adjust to taste)
- Pinch of salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Toasted sesame seeds or crushed peanuts (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Prepare the tapioca pearls.
- Bring a pot of water to a boil. Add the tapioca pearls and stir to prevent sticking.
- Cook for about 10 minutes or until they turn translucent.
- Drain and rinse under cold water. Set aside.
- Heat the coconut milk mixture.
- In a pot, combine coconut milk, water, sugar, and a pinch of salt.
- Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
- Add the bananas.
- Once the coconut milk is warm, add the sliced bananas and cooked tapioca pearls.
- Let everything simmer for 5-7 minutes until the bananas soften.
- Enhance the flavor.
- Stir in vanilla extract for an extra layer of fragrance.
- Serve and enjoy!
- Pour the sweet soup into serving bowls and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds or crushed peanuts for extra crunch.
- Enjoy it warm, or let it cool and serve chilled.
Tips for a Perfect Chè Every Time
- Use ripe bananas for the best natural sweetness. If they’re too firm, they won’t blend well into the dessert.
- Adjust sweetness to taste by adding more or less sugar, or swap it with coconut sugar for a deeper flavor.
- Make it thicker by using more coconut milk or reducing the amount of water.
That’s it! You’ve just made a traditional chè chuối that’s both simple and satisfying. Next, we’ll explore different variations of chè to give you even more ideas! 😊
if you’re looking for more delicious recipes, be sure to explore other plant-based dessert ideas on their website everytastes such as Simple Healthy Dessert Recipes with Macros
Popular Variations of Vegan Vietnamese Sweet Soup
Vietnamese sweet soups come in many forms, each offering a unique taste and texture. While chè chuối is one of the most well-known, there are plenty of other variations to try. If you’re looking to expand your dessert menu, here are some popular types of chè that fit perfectly into an easy vegan Vietnamese sweet soup dessert recipe.
Chè Chuối (Banana Sweet Soup)
We’ve already covered this one in our recipe, but it deserves another mention! Made with bananas, coconut milk, and tapioca pearls, this dessert is creamy, naturally sweet, and incredibly easy to make. It’s perfect for those who love banana-based treats.
Chè Bắp (Sweet Corn Pudding)
If you prefer a slightly firmer dessert with a bit of crunch, chè bắp is a great choice. This dish features sweet corn simmered in coconut milk and thickened with tapioca pearls. The natural sweetness of the corn pairs beautifully with the rich, creamy base.
To make chè bắp, simply replace bananas with corn kernels, follow the same steps for preparing the coconut base, and adjust the sweetness to your preference.
Chè Khoai Lang (Sweet Potato Dessert Soup)
For a heartier option, chè khoai lang is a must-try. This version uses sweet potatoes, which add a smooth, creamy texture and a naturally rich sweetness. Some recipes also include pandan leaves to enhance the flavor.
If you want to make it even more exciting, try using purple sweet potatoes! They not only add a beautiful color but also bring an earthy sweetness to the dish.
Chè Đậu Xanh (Mung Bean Sweet Soup)
Mung beans are often used in both sweet and savory Vietnamese dishes, and in chè đậu xanh, they take center stage. This dessert is a bit lighter than other variations and has a mild, nutty flavor. Coconut milk makes it creamy, while a touch of sugar enhances the sweetness.
Other Creative Variations
Once you get comfortable with making chè, feel free to experiment! Some people add ingredients like black beans, seaweed jelly, or even lotus seeds to give their dessert a new twist. Whatever you choose, the core elements coconut milk, tapioca pearls, and natural sweeteners remain the same.
Now that you know the different types of chè, let’s explore why this dessert isn’t just delicious but also packed with health benefits!
Nutritional Benefits of Vegan Vietnamese Sweet Soup
Not only is an easy vegan Vietnamese sweet soup dessert recipe simple to make, but it also offers several health benefits. Unlike many processed sweets, chè relies on natural ingredients that provide essential nutrients. Here’s why this dessert is a great addition to your diet.
Rich in Fiber and Nutrients
Ingredients like bananas, sweet potatoes, mung beans, and corn are loaded with fiber, which helps digestion and keeps you full longer. Fiber also supports gut health and stabilizes blood sugar levels.
Mung beans, in particular, are a great source of plant-based protein, making chè đậu xanh an excellent option for those following a vegan diet.
Dairy-Free and Suitable for Lactose-Intolerant Diets
Traditional puddings and creamy desserts often contain milk, butter, or cream, which can be hard to digest for those who are lactose intolerant. Since chè is made with coconut milk, it’s completely dairy-free and easy on the stomach.
Coconut milk also contains healthy fats that can help with energy levels and keep you feeling satisfied.
Gluten-Free Options Available
For those who avoid gluten, chè is a fantastic choice! Most recipes use tapioca pearls, which are naturally gluten-free. As long as you check your ingredients (especially store-bought ones), you can enjoy this dessert without any concerns.
Lower in Refined Sugar
Unlike processed sweets, chè doesn’t rely on artificial sweeteners. The natural sugars in bananas, sweet potatoes, and corn add just the right amount of sweetness. If you want to keep it even healthier, you can replace regular sugar with alternatives like coconut sugar or maple syrup.
Packed with Antioxidants
Ingredients like pandan leaves, mung beans, and sweet potatoes contain antioxidants that help fight inflammation and boost overall health. The vibrant colors of ingredients especially if you use purple sweet potatoes are a sign of high nutrient content.
Eating dessert and getting health benefits at the same time? That’s a win-win!
How to Serve and Store Vegan Sweet Soup
Once you’ve made your easy vegan Vietnamese sweet soup dessert recipe, the next step is knowing how to serve it properly and store any leftovers for later. Whether you prefer it warm or chilled, chè is a versatile dessert that can be enjoyed in different ways.
Best Ways to Serve (Hot vs. Cold)
One of the best things about chè is that it can be served both warm and cold, depending on the weather and personal preference.
- Warm Version: If you love comforting, creamy desserts, enjoy your chè fresh off the stove. The heat brings out the flavors of coconut milk and bananas, making it extra fragrant.
- Cold Version: For a refreshing twist, let the chè cool to room temperature before refrigerating it for at least an hour. Chilled chè has a slightly thicker consistency and is perfect for hot days.
To take it up a notch, add a few ice cubes when serving cold chè. The contrast between the creamy soup and melting ice makes for a deliciously cool treat.
Storage Tips for Freshness
If you have leftovers, don’t worry! Storing chè properly will keep it fresh and tasty for days.
- Refrigeration: Transfer your chè to an airtight container and store it in the fridge. It stays fresh for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: While chè can be frozen, some ingredients like tapioca pearls and bananas may change in texture after thawing. If you plan to freeze it, do so without the tapioca pearls, then add freshly cooked ones when reheating.
- Reheating: If enjoying chè warm, heat it gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of coconut milk if it thickens too much. Avoid using high heat, as it may cause the coconut milk to separate.
Proper storage ensures that every bowl of chè tastes just as good as when you first made it!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Vietnamese Sweet Soup
Before you dive into making your own easy vegan Vietnamese sweet soup dessert recipe, here are some common questions that might help you perfect the dish.
The best option is full-fat coconut milk because it gives the dessert a rich and creamy texture. Avoid brands with added sugar or thickeners for a more natural taste. If you prefer a lighter version, use lite coconut milk, though it won’t be as creamy.
Yes! If you don’t have tapioca pearls, you can substitute them with:
– Sago pearls (they have a similar chewy texture)
– Chia seeds (for a healthier, pudding-like alternative)
– Jelly cubes (for a fun, bouncy texture)
Each alternative adds a unique twist, so feel free to experiment!
Yes! This dessert is naturally dairy-free, gluten-free, and packed with nutrients from bananas, sweet potatoes, and mung beans. To keep it even healthier, reduce the sugar or use natural sweeteners like coconut sugar or maple syrup.
If you prefer a milder sweetness, try these tips:
– Use ripe bananas instead of added sugar.
– Reduce the sugar amount in the recipe and taste-test before adding more.
– Swap white sugar for coconut sugar for a less intense sweetness.
Absolutely! While bananas, corn, and sweet potatoes are common, you can also try:
– Jackfruit for a tropical twist
– Lychee for a floral sweetness
– Mango for a creamy, fruity version
Vietnamese sweet soup is all about flexibility, so feel free to mix and match ingredients to suit your taste.
Pairing Vietnamese Sweet Soup with Other Desserts
While chè is delicious on its own, pairing it with other light treats can elevate your dessert experience. If you’re preparing an easy vegan Vietnamese sweet soup dessert recipe for guests, consider serving it alongside other plant-based sweets for a more indulgent spread.
Best Desserts to Serve with Chè
- Coconut Sticky Rice (Xôi Lá Dứa) – This fragrant, sweet sticky rice dish made with pandan leaves and coconut milk pairs beautifully with chè. The chewy texture of sticky rice contrasts nicely with the smooth creaminess of chè.
- Sesame Balls (Bánh Cam) – These crispy, deep-fried rice flour balls filled with mung bean paste provide a crunchy contrast to the soft, warm texture of chè.
- Vegan Banana Cake (Bánh Chuối Nướng) – If you love bananas in chè chuối, try serving it with a slice of this moist, lightly sweet Vietnamese banana cake. It’s baked with coconut milk, making it a perfect complement to your dessert soup.
- Mung Bean Pudding (Chè Khúc Bạch) – A jelly-like dessert made from mung beans and coconut cream, this pudding is another great addition to a Vietnamese dessert spread.
Best Drinks to Pair with Chè
- Iced Vietnamese Coffee (Cà Phê Sữa Đá) – If you love strong coffee flavors, a glass of Vietnamese iced coffee pairs well with the creamy sweetness of chè. Just make sure to use plant-based condensed milk to keep it vegan!
- Pandan Iced Tea – Made by steeping pandan leaves in hot water, this tea has a naturally sweet, floral flavor that enhances the chè experience.
- Fresh Coconut Water – If you’re serving chè chilled, pair it with fresh coconut water for a refreshing tropical combination.
By mixing and matching different flavors, textures, and temperatures, you can create a complete Vietnamese dessert experience that will impress your guests!
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Even though an easy vegan Vietnamese sweet soup dessert recipe is simple to make, a few common mistakes can affect the final result. Here’s how to avoid them!
Overcooking the Tapioca Pearls
Tapioca pearls are one of the key ingredients in chè, but they can turn mushy if overcooked. To prevent this:
- Cook tapioca pearls separately from other ingredients.
- Once they turn translucent, remove them from heat immediately.
- Rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent sticking.
Using the Wrong Type of Coconut Milk
Not all coconut milk is the same! Some brands contain added sugar, while others have a thin, watery consistency. For the best flavor and texture:
- Use full-fat coconut milk for creamier chè.
- Shake the can before opening to mix the coconut cream and liquid evenly.
- If making a lighter version, dilute coconut milk with a bit of water rather than using low-fat versions.
Adding Sugar Too Early
Adding sugar at the wrong time can change the texture of your chè, making it grainy instead of smooth. To avoid this:
- Add sugar toward the end of cooking, once all ingredients are soft.
- Stir well to dissolve the sugar evenly into the coconut milk.
Not Adjusting Sweetness to Taste
Some ingredients, like ripe bananas or sweet corn, naturally add sweetness to chè. Instead of following a recipe blindly:
- Taste your chè before adding extra sugar.
- If using very ripe fruits, reduce the sugar amount to avoid an overly sweet dessert.
Skipping Pandan Leaves
Many first-time chè makers think pandan leaves are optional, but they actually add a signature aroma that makes Vietnamese desserts special. If you can’t find fresh pandan leaves, use:
- Frozen pandan leaves (thawed before use)
- Pandan extract (just a few drops will do)
These small adjustments will ensure your chè turns out rich, flavorful, and just like the ones served in Vietnam!
How to Customize Your Vietnamese Sweet Soup
One of the best things about an easy vegan Vietnamese sweet soup dessert recipe is that it’s highly customizable. Whether you want to try different flavors, textures, or sweeteners, there are endless ways to make chè your own.
Adding Extra Toppings for More Texture
A bowl of chè is already delicious, but adding toppings can take it to the next level. Here are some great options:
- Toasted Coconut Flakes – Adds crunch and enhances the coconut flavor.
- Crushed Peanuts or Cashews – Brings a nutty contrast to the creaminess.
- Chia Seeds or Basil Seeds – A fun twist that boosts fiber content.
- Jelly Cubes – Made from agar-agar or grass jelly for a refreshing bite.
Experimenting with Different Sweeteners
Traditional chè is made with white sugar, but you can easily swap it for other natural options:
- Coconut Sugar – A richer, caramel-like sweetness.
- Maple Syrup – A mild, natural alternative.
- Date Paste – A great way to sweeten chè naturally.
Making a Low-Calorie Version
If you’re watching your calorie intake, try these simple adjustments:
- Use lite coconut milk instead of full-fat coconut milk.
- Reduce the amount of sugar and rely on natural sweetness from bananas or sweet potatoes.
- Add more water or unsweetened almond milk to lighten the texture.
Serving Chè for Special Occasions
This easy vegan Vietnamese sweet soup dessert recipe isn’t just a casual treat it’s also perfect for celebrations! In Vietnam, chè is often served at festivals, weddings, and family gatherings.
Festive Ways to Present Chè
- Layered in Glass Cups – Serve in small dessert glasses with a drizzle of coconut cream on top for an elegant touch.
- Garnished with Edible Flowers – Brighten up your bowl with edible flowers like jasmine or butterfly pea flowers.
- Served in a Coconut Shell – For a tropical vibe, serve chè inside a hollowed-out young coconut.
Chè as a Comfort Dessert
Not just for parties, chè is also a comforting dessert after a long day. A warm bowl of chè chuối can be just as soothing as a cup of tea on a rainy evening.
Conclusion
Now you have everything you need to make an authentic, delicious easy vegan Vietnamese sweet soup dessert recipe. Whether you enjoy it warm or cold, simple or topped with extras, this traditional treat is sure to satisfy. With its creamy texture, natural sweetness, and endless variations, chè is a dessert you’ll want to make again and again.
So, grab your ingredients, start cooking, and enjoy a taste of Vietnam right from your kitchen!
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Easy Vegan Vietnamese Sweet Soup Dessert Recipe: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
This easy vegan Vietnamese sweet soup dessert recipe is a simple, creamy, and naturally sweet dish made with coconut milk, bananas, and tapioca pearls. Enjoy it warm or chilled for a traditional Vietnamese treat.
Ingredients
- 2 ripe bananas, sliced
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 3 cups water
- ½ cup small tapioca pearls
- ¼ cup sugar (adjust to taste)
- Pinch of salt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Toasted sesame seeds or crushed peanuts (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the tapioca pearls: Boil them in water until translucent, then rinse under cold water.
- Prepare the coconut milk base: Simmer coconut milk, water, sugar, and salt over medium heat.
- Add the bananas: Stir in the banana slices and cooked tapioca pearls. Simmer for 5-7 minutes.
- Enhance the flavor: Add vanilla extract, mix well, and remove from heat.
- Serve and enjoy: Pour into bowls, top with toasted sesame seeds or peanuts, and serve warm or chilled.
Notes
100%
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Vietnamese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 45mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: easy vegan Vietnamese sweet soup dessert recipe, chè, coconut tapioca dessert, banana sweet soup, dairy-free Vietnamese dessert