Easy Vegan Vietnamese Sweet Soup (Chè) Recipe: A Flavorful, Refreshing Dessert

If you’re in the mood for a light, refreshing, and unique dessert, Vietnamese Sweet Soup, known as Chè, is a must-try! This traditional Vietnamese dessert is a delightful mix of sweet ingredients, such as beans, fruits, and jellies, often served with coconut milk. The best part? It’s easily adaptable for a vegan diet, making it both nutritious and indulgent. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through a simple, yet delicious, Vegan Vietnamese Sweet Soup recipe that’s perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth while keeping it healthy and plant-based.

Whether you’ve never tried Vietnamese sweet soup or are looking for an easy vegan version, this recipe will bring the authentic flavors of Vietnam to your kitchen. Plus, we’ll answer frequently asked questions and offer tips to help you master this delectable dessert.

What is Vietnamese Sweet Soup (Chè)?

Chè is a broad term for a variety of sweet soups and beverages in Vietnamese cuisine. These can be served hot or cold, depending on the ingredients and the season. Common ingredients include beans (like mung or red beans), jellies, fruits, and coconut milk, creating a dish that’s both rich and refreshing. It’s perfect for cooling down on a hot day or enjoying as a comforting treat.

Frequently Asked Questions About Vegan Vietnamese Sweet Soup

1. Is Chè always vegan?
Not all versions of Chè are vegan as some recipes include dairy milk or gelatin. However, many traditional Chè recipes are naturally vegan since they use ingredients like beans, coconut milk, and fruits. In this vegan version, we use plant-based alternatives to make it entirely vegan-friendly.

2. What are the key ingredients in vegan Chè?
The core ingredients of vegan Chè include coconut milk, sweetened beans (like red beans or mung beans), fruits (like bananas or jackfruit), and sometimes tapioca pearls or jellies. You can adjust these based on your preferences or what’s available to you.

3. Can I make Chè without sugar?
Yes! You can substitute refined sugar with natural sweeteners like maple syrup, agave, or coconut sugar. Keep in mind that the sweetness is a personal preference, so feel free to adjust the amount to your liking.

4. Can I serve Chè warm or cold?
Chè can be served both ways. For a refreshing treat, serve it chilled over ice, or for a comforting dessert, enjoy it warm straight from the pot.

5. How long does Chè last in the fridge?
Vegan Chè can last up to 3 days in the fridge when stored in an airtight container. It’s great for making ahead and serving when you’re ready!

Vegan Vietnamese Sweet Soup (Chè) Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 cup mung beans or red beans (cooked and sweetened)
• 1/2 cup tapioca pearls
• 1/2 cup jackfruit, thinly sliced (optional)
• 2 ripe bananas, sliced
• 1 cup coconut milk
• 1/4 cup sugar or preferred sweetener (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups water
• Crushed ice (for serving, optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Beans:
If you’re using dried mung beans or red beans, start by soaking them overnight. After soaking, cook the beans in a pot of water until tender, about 30-40 minutes. Drain and mix with 2 tablespoons of sugar. If using canned beans, simply drain, rinse, and sweeten them with sugar.

2. Cook the Tapioca Pearls:
In a separate pot, bring water to a boil and add the tapioca pearls. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook for about 10-15 minutes or until the pearls turn translucent. Once done, drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.

3. Prepare the Coconut Milk Mixture:
In a saucepan, combine the coconut milk, 2 cups of water, sugar, and vanilla extract. Heat gently over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Once the mixture comes to a simmer, reduce the heat and let it cook for about 5 minutes. Set aside.

4. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large bowl or individual serving glasses, layer the sweetened beans, cooked tapioca pearls, sliced bananas, and jackfruit (if using). Pour the warm coconut milk mixture over the top.

5. Serve Warm or Cold:
For a warm dessert, serve immediately. If you prefer a chilled treat, refrigerate the mixture for at least 1 hour, then serve over crushed ice.

Why You’ll Love This Vegan Chè Recipe

1. Naturally Sweet and Refreshing:
   The combination of coconut milk, sweet beans, and fruits creates a dessert that’s perfectly sweet without being overwhelming. The chilled version is especially refreshing on a hot day.
2. Customizable:
   One of the best things about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can swap out the bananas for other fruits like mango or lychee, add jelly cubes, or even mix in chia seeds for extra texture.
3. Healthy and Plant-Based:
   This vegan version of Chè uses wholesome ingredients like beans, coconut milk, and fruits. Beans provide plant-based protein, and coconut milk adds healthy fats, making this dessert both indulgent and nutritious.
4. Simple and Easy to Make:
   This recipe is beginner-friendly and doesn’t require any special equipment. You can have it ready in under an hour, making it perfect for a quick yet satisfying dessert.

Health Benefits of Vegan Vietnamese Sweet Soup

1. Rich in Nutrients:
   Mung beans and red beans are packed with fiber, protein, and essential vitamins, making this dessert not only tasty but also nutritious. Coconut milk is also rich in healthy fats, which help keep you full and satisfied.
2. Low in Processed Ingredients:
   By using natural sweeteners like coconut sugar or agave syrup, this recipe stays low in processed ingredients, making it a healthier alternative to many store-bought desserts.
3. Plant-Based and Dairy-Free:
   For those following a vegan or dairy-free lifestyle, this Chè recipe is perfect. The coconut milk provides a creamy texture without the need for dairy, while the plant-based ingredients keep it light and wholesome.

Tips for Making the Perfect Vegan Chè

1. Adjust the Sweetness:
   Depending on your taste, you can increase or decrease the amount of sugar or use alternative sweeteners like maple syrup or coconut sugar.
2. Experiment with Ingredients:
   Feel free to mix and match different fruits, beans, or toppings to suit your preferences. Some versions of Chè include taro, sweet potatoes, or lotus seeds for added variety.
3. Chill Before Serving:
   If you’re planning to serve Chè cold, make sure to chill the mixture in the fridge for at least an hour before serving. The cold coconut milk paired with the sweetness of the beans and fruit is a perfect summer treat.

Conclusion

Vegan Vietnamese Sweet Soup (Chè) is the perfect combination of indulgence and nutrition. Whether you enjoy it warm or chilled, this delightful dessert is bound to satisfy your cravings with its creamy coconut milk, sweetened beans, and refreshing fruits. Plus, it’s a versatile recipe that you can easily customize with your favorite ingredients.

Try this easy vegan version of Chè at your next gathering or as a treat for yourself. With its balance of flavors and textures, it’s sure to become one of your favorite go-to desserts!