Rice Custard (Che Ba Mau): A Traditional Vietnamese Sweet

One of the most beloved desserts in Vietnamese cuisine is rice custard, known as Che Ba Mau. This delectable treat combines layers of sweet goodness to create a colorful and flavorful experience for your taste buds. If you’re a fan of creamy textures and sweet rice dishes, you’re in for a real treat with this traditional Vietnamese dessert.

Let’s dive into the delightful world of Che Ba Mau and uncover what makes this dessert so special.

What is Rice Custard (Che Ba Mau)?

Rice custard, or Che Ba Mau in Vietnamese, is a layered dessert that consists of three main components: sticky rice, pandan jelly, and mung bean paste. Each layer offers a unique texture and flavor that complements the others, resulting in a harmonious blend of sweet and creamy goodness.

Sticky rice serves as the base of the dessert, providing a chewy and slightly glutinous texture. The pandan jelly layer adds a refreshing and herbal note to the dish, while the mung bean paste brings a creamy and rich element to the mix. Together, these layers create a delightful dessert that is both visually appealing and delicious.

How is Rice Custard Made?

Making rice custard is a labor of love, as each layer requires careful preparation and attention to detail. Here is a general overview of how Che Ba Mau is made:

• Start by cooking sticky rice until it is soft and slightly sticky.
• Prepare the pandan jelly by boiling pandan leaves with water and sugar, then setting the mixture with agar agar powder.
• Cook mung beans until they are soft, then blend them into a smooth paste with sugar and coconut milk.
• Layer the sticky rice, pandan jelly, and mung bean paste in a glass dish to create the iconic tricolor effect.
• Chill the dessert in the refrigerator until set, then slice and serve cold.

Where to Find Rice Custard

Rice custard is a popular dessert in Vietnam and can be found in various restaurants, bakeries, and street food stalls throughout the country. It is often served as a sweet ending to a meal or enjoyed as a snack on its own. If you ever find yourself in Vietnam, be sure to seek out this delightful treat and experience the flavors of Che Ba Mau for yourself.

In Conclusion

Rice custard, or Che Ba Mau, is a traditional Vietnamese sweet that offers a unique and delicious experience for dessert lovers. With its layers of sticky rice, pandan jelly, and mung bean paste, this dessert is a true delight for the senses. Whether you’re a fan of Vietnamese cuisine or simply looking to expand your dessert horizons, give Che Ba Mau a try and savor the sweet flavors of this beloved Vietnamese treat.