Che Ba Mau Recipe

Cook Time: 50 minutes  

   Prep Time: 30 minutes

Che Ba Mau Ingredients

Che Ba Mau Instructions

  1. Drain the soaked mung beans and rinse thoroughly under cold water.
  2. Place the mung beans in a small saucepan, cover with water, and bring to a boil over medium heat. Reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes until the beans are soft and easily mashed.
  3. Drain any excess water from the mung beans, then mash them with 1/4 cup granulated sugar and 1/4 teaspoon salt until smooth. Set aside to cool.
  4. In a separate bowl, mix the sweetened red bean paste with 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/4 cup granulated sugar until well combined and smooth.
  5. Cut the pandan jelly (agar-agar) and grass jelly into small, even cubes. Set aside.
  6. In a small saucepan, combine the coconut milk, sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and pandan extract. Heat gently over low heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture is warm and smooth. Do not let it boil. Remove from heat and let cool.
  7. Prepare the tapioca pearls according to package instructions, then drain and set aside. Soak the basil seeds in water for 10 minutes, then drain and set aside.
  8. To assemble, add a layer of mashed mung beans to the bottom of each serving glass.
  9. Top the mung bean layer with a layer of sweetened red bean paste, spreading evenly.
  10. Add a layer of pandan jelly cubes, followed by a layer of grass jelly cubes.
  11. Spoon in the cooked tapioca pearls and soaked basil seeds, distributing evenly between glasses.
  12. Pour the cooled coconut sauce over the layers until just below the rim of the glass.
  13. Add a generous scoop of shaved or crushed ice on top of each glass.
  14. Sprinkle toasted coconut flakes, crushed roasted peanuts, lime zest, and a pinch of sea salt flakes over the ice for garnish and extra flavor.
  15. Serve immediately with a long spoon and straw, mixing the layers as you enjoy.

Estimated Calories: 320, Servings: 4

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Che Ba Mau Story

I remember the first time I made my version of this dish for a small get together at my place. I thought it would be a fun, easy treat to share, and honestly, I was just hoping everyone would like it. One of my friends, who is usually pretty reserved about food, took a bite and immediately stopped talking. I was worried for a second, thinking maybe I had messed up the recipe or something, but then she just started laughing and said it was the best thing she had tasted in a long time. That reaction totally caught me off guard, and it made me realize how sometimes the simplest, quick dishes can really surprise people.
Later that night, she pulled me aside and asked for the recipe, which was a first for her. She told me she had always thought of herself as someone who only liked very traditional, familiar foods, but this dish changed her mind. She said it was so delicious and had such a good balance of flavors that she wanted to try making it at home for her family. I never expected my version to have that kind of impact, especially since I had just thrown it together in a fast, casual way. It was a great reminder that sharing food can open people up to new experiences, even when you least expect it.
That interaction has really stayed with me. Every time I make this dish now, I think about how something so easy and healthy could create such a memorable moment. It made me appreciate the power of food to connect people and break down barriers. Even now, whenever I see my friend, she always brings up that night and how much she enjoyed it. It is funny how a quick meal can turn into a lasting memory, and it makes me want to keep experimenting and sharing with others.

About Che Ba Mau Recipe

Che Ba Mau, also known as Vietnamese Three Color Dessert, is a vibrant and delicious treat that's perfect for hot days. This easy and quick recipe combines layers of colorful ingredients such as mung beans, red beans, and pandan jelly, making it both visually appealing and tasty. If you're searching for the best and most authentic way to enjoy this dessert at home, this homemade version is sure to impress. The simple steps and accessible ingredients make it a great choice for anyone wondering how to make Che Ba Mau with minimal effort.
To achieve the perfect Che Ba Mau, it's important to use fresh and high-quality ingredients. The recipe typically calls for sweetened red beans, mung bean paste, and chewy pandan jelly, all layered over crushed ice and topped with creamy coconut milk. These components create a delicious blend of textures and flavors that are both refreshing and satisfying. For the best results, follow these tips: cook each layer separately, allow them to cool before assembling, and use a generous amount of coconut milk for that authentic taste.
If you're looking for a simple and tasty dessert that's sure to please a crowd, this Che Ba Mau recipe is the answer. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it also offers a quick way to enjoy a traditional Vietnamese treat at home. With the right ingredients and a few helpful tips, you'll master how to make this delicious and authentic dessert in no time. Whether you're new to Vietnamese cuisine or a longtime fan, this homemade Che Ba Mau is the perfect sweet ending to any meal.

Healthy Che Ba Mau Tips

When I set out to make the best Che Ba Mau recipe at home, I always look for ways to boost its health benefits without sacrificing that delicious, authentic flavor. Swapping out the usual canned beans for homemade, low-sugar versions is my go-to health tip. I soak and cook the beans myself, which lets me control the ingredients and avoid unnecessary additives. For the jelly layer, I use agar-agar instead of gelatin, since it's plant-based and lighter on the stomach. Using coconut milk is a must for that tasty, creamy finish, but I opt for the light version or dilute it a bit to keep the recipe easy on the calories while still keeping it rich and satisfying.
Another health trick I love is sweetening my homemade Che Ba Mau with natural sweeteners like stevia or a touch of honey, rather than refined sugar. This keeps the dessert quick and simple to prepare, but much better for my health. I also add extra toppings like fresh fruit or chia seeds for a boost of fiber and nutrients, making the best use of every ingredient. If you're wondering how to make this classic treat even healthier, just remember: small changes can make a big difference. With these tips, you'll have a perfect, easy, and healthy Che Ba Mau recipe that's just as tasty and authentic as the original!

Che Ba Mau Quick Mistake Fixes

One time, I got a little too enthusiastic with the salt when making this, thinking it would bring out the flavors more. Instead, it ended up overpowering everything else, which was definitely not the best outcome. I learned that with a dish like this, it's easy to go overboard, especially if you're not tasting as you go. Now, I always remind myself that a good recipe is about balance, and it's better to start with less and add more if needed. That way, the final result is still delicious and not ruined by being too salty.
There was a day when I was in a rush and tried to make this as fast as possible, but I ended up overcooking some of the components. It really affected the texture, making things either too mushy or just not as appealing as they should be. I realized that even with an easy and quick approach, it's important to keep an eye on the cooking times. A great dish should have a variety of textures, and overcooking can take away from that healthy, satisfying experience.
Sometimes, after putting everything together, I taste it and feel like something is missing. That's when I start thinking about how to balance the flavors with some last minute changes. Maybe a squeeze of lime, a sprinkle of toasted coconut, or a dash of something sweet can really bring everything together. It's amazing how a few quick tweaks can turn a bland dish into something truly delicious. I always keep a few tricks up my sleeve to make sure the final result is the best it can be, no matter what.

Storage Tips

When it comes to storage, I always make sure to use an airtight container for Che Ba Mau. That is honestly the best way to keep it fresh and delicious for as long as possible. I usually pop it in the fridge right after it cools down, and it is so easy and quick to do. If you are following a healthy recipe, you will want to keep it away from strong-smelling foods so the flavors do not get muddled. I have found that a good seal really helps retain that great, sweet aroma.Thinking about shelf life, I have noticed that Che Ba Mau stays at its best for about two to three days in the refrigerator. After that, the texture starts to change and it is not as delicious as when it is fresh. I love how fast and easy it is to make a new batch if I want more, so I never worry about making too much at once. If you are planning to serve it for a party, I recommend making it the day before for the best results. That way, you get the most out of your healthy and tasty treat.Spoilage signs are something I always keep an eye out for, especially with a dessert like this. If I notice any sour smell, odd taste, or a change in color, I know it is time to toss it. It is never a good idea to risk it, even if the recipe was a great success the first time. I have learned that being quick to check for spoilage keeps everyone safe and lets us enjoy this easy and delicious dessert without worry.