Che Ba Ba: Vietnamese Tapioca and Coconut Milk Dessert Soup

Introduction

Che Ba Ba is a delightful Vietnamese dessert soup that combines the rich flavors of tapioca pearls, sweet potatoes, and coconut milk. This creamy and slightly sweet dessert is popular in Vietnamese cuisine and is often enjoyed during special occasions or as a comforting treat on a cozy evening. Let’s explore how to make this delicious Che Ba Ba at home!

Ingredients

– 1 cup of tapioca pearls
– 2 cups of sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 can of coconut milk
– 1/2 cup of sugar
– 4 cups of water
– A pinch of salt
– Crushed roasted peanuts for garnish
– Coconut cream (optional)

Directions

1. Begin by soaking the tapioca pearls in water for about 30 minutes. This will help soften them before cooking.
2. In a pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Add the soaked tapioca pearls and cook them until they turn translucent, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. This usually takes about 10-15 minutes.
3. Once the tapioca pearls are cooked, add the cubed sweet potatoes to the pot. Cook until the sweet potatoes are tender but not falling apart.
4. Stir in the can of coconut milk, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Let the mixture simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. Taste the Che Ba Ba and adjust the sweetness to your liking by adding more sugar if desired.
6. Once ready, ladle the Che Ba Ba into serving bowls. You can drizzle some coconut cream on top for extra richness.
7. Garnish each bowl with a sprinkle of crushed roasted peanuts for a delightful crunch.
8. Serve the Che Ba Ba warm or chilled, depending on your preference. Enjoy this comforting Vietnamese dessert soup with friends and family!

This traditional Vietnamese dessert soup is a perfect blend of textures and flavors, making it a favorite among both young and old. Try making Che Ba Ba at home to experience a taste of Vietnam’s culinary heritage.

FAQ About Che Ba Ba

What is Che Ba Ba?

Che Ba Ba is a traditional Vietnamese dessert soup made with tapioca pearls, sweet potatoes, cassava, and bananas, cooked in coconut milk sweetened with sugar or condensed milk.

How is Che Ba Ba served?

Che Ba Ba is typically served warm or cold in a bowl, topped with crunchy roasted peanuts or sesame seeds for added texture and flavor.

Can Che Ba Ba be customized?

Yes, Che Ba Ba can be customized by adding ingredients like taro, jackfruit, or mung beans according to personal preference, enhancing its taste and visual appeal.

Is Che Ba Ba easy to make at home?

While the ingredients for Che Ba Ba are simple and accessible, the preparation might require some time due to the cooking of tapioca pearls and root vegetables. However, the process itself is straightforward.