Chè Bắp, or Vietnamese Sweet Corn Pudding, is a comforting and delightful dessert that combines the natural sweetness of corn with the richness of coconut milk and the smoothness of tapioca pearls. This creamy, warm pudding is a popular treat in Vietnam, often enjoyed as a snack or dessert during special occasions or as a cool, refreshing dish on hot days. The balance of sweet corn, creamy coconut milk, and chewy tapioca creates a perfect harmony of textures and flavors, making it a beloved dish among both locals and visitors alike.
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh corn kernels (or 1 can of sweet corn, drained)
- 1/2 cup small tapioca pearls
- 3 cups coconut milk
- 1/2 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups water
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- A pinch of crushed ice (optional, for serving)
Directions
- Prepare the tapioca pearls:
- In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add the tapioca pearls and cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for about 10–15 minutes, or until the pearls become translucent and tender.
- Once cooked, drain the tapioca pearls and set them aside.
- Cook the corn:
- In another saucepan, add the corn kernels, coconut milk, sugar, and salt. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
- Once it starts to simmer, cook for about 5–10 minutes, allowing the corn to soften and infuse its sweetness into the coconut milk.
- Combine tapioca and corn mixture:
- Add the cooked tapioca pearls to the corn and coconut milk mixture. Stir well to combine.
- Continue to simmer the mixture over low heat for another 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pudding thickens to your desired consistency. If you prefer a thicker pudding, let it cook longer; if it’s too thick, you can add a bit of water or more coconut milk to adjust the texture.
- Optional flavoring:
- Stir in vanilla extract for an added layer of flavor if desired.
- Serve:
- Once the pudding reaches your desired consistency, remove it from the heat. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving, or you can chill it in the fridge for a cold dessert option.
- If serving chilled, add a pinch of crushed ice for a refreshing twist.
- Serve in small bowls or glasses and enjoy!
Enjoy this creamy and comforting Chè Bắp, a sweet Vietnamese treat that combines the rich flavors of coconut milk and sweet corn with the chewy tapioca pearls for a delightful dessert experience!
