Bean there...ate that! In Vietnam, sweet soups or puddings are known as chè. This Vietnamese Mung Bean Dessert, called che dau xanh, is easily one of the most simple Vietnamese desserts to make. Mung beans are said to have cooling properties on the body and other health benefits, but I'm no doctor. To me, this is purely a yummy dessert that can be served hot, cold, or over crushed ice. All you need are 4 simple ingredients - mung beans, sugar, coconut milk, and water!

This jiggly, wiggly custard of silky, sweet deliciousness was adopted by the Vietnamese during the French colonization of Vietnam in the 19th century and is a common dessert. In northern Vietnam, it is known as bánh caramel, kem caramel or caramen and in southern Vietnam, it is known as bánh flan or kem flan. The difference between Vietnamese flan and European flan is Vietnamese flan is usually smaller and steamed rather than baked. Vietnamese flan also uses coconut as an ingredient and is drizzled with black coffee when served.

This light traditional Vietnamese banana, coconut, and tapioca pudding (che chuoi) was one of my favorite desserts growing up. It’s lightly sweetened and the cooked bananas add the perfect tang. I remember eating this until I couldn’t fit anymore in me. You can serve che chuoi warm or cold so it’s perfect for warming you up on cold mornings or giving you a refresh on a hot summer day!