Che (Sweet soup)
Che is Vietnamese dessert soup or pudding, which comes in a variety of flavours and ingredients.
The ingredients of Che are usually coconut milk, while toppings include sago pearls, mung beans, kidney beans, tapioca, sweet potatoes and glutinous rice, as well as fresh fruits such as bananas, jackfruit, durian and mangos.
There are variety of Che, for example,
Che Chuoi
Those who are interested in bananas will like this concoction of tapioca pearls, coconut cream and grilled bananas. This smooth, creamy pudding is easily found at coffee shops and street stalls.
Che Troi Nuoc
Eaten on special occasions, these mochi-esque rice flour balls have mung bean paste at the centre, and are drizzled with ginger syrup and sesame seeds. Served with a dash of coconut milk.
Che Bap
A mix of corn, coconut milk and tapioca pearls, this pudding is a creamy and nourishing dessert in winter months. Be sure to try in Hoi An where it’s made with fresh, locally grown corn.
Banh Chuoi Chien (Fried Banana)
Fried banana fritters are a popular street snack throughout the country. With a crispy exterior and soft gooey interior, these fritters can be found in alleyways and around markets for 5,000VND a piece.
Flan Cake (Caramel Pudding)
Flan Cake (or caramel pudding in northern Vietnam) comprises custard pudding with a layer of soft caramel on top. Introduced by the French, this sinfully sweet dessert is made by combining eggs, sugar and milk or coconut milk. It is served chilled with a side of fresh fruit, but some places add a shot of espresso on top of the caramel layer – a must-try if you are looking for a jolt of caffeine.
Hoa Qua Dam (Mixed Fruits)
This healthy snack brings together fresh mixed fruit, coconut cream and shaved ice. Anything fresh is invited to the party, including jackfruit, kiwi, watermelon, apple and even avocado. You can also add on pandan jellies or tapioca balls for more texture.
Rau Cau Trai Dua (Coconut Jelly)
Refreshing with just the right amount of sweetness, you can find in some stores or supermarket selling Rau Cau Trai Dua (coconut jelly). Its top layer is custard-like coconut cream while the bottom consists of jelly which is made with coconut water. Rau Cau Trai Dua is also a good dessert option for traveling vegans as the jelly is made from seaweed called Agar-Agar.