Chè Hạt Sen
Vietnamese Lotus Seed Sweet Soup
A delicate and elegant Vietnamese dessert soup featuring tender lotus seeds simmered in a clear, lightly sweetened syrup with the subtle fruitiness of longan and the fragrant aroma of pandan leaves. This chè is perfect served warm or chilled.
🧂 Ingredients
- 150 g Dried lotus seeds
- 100 g Fresh or dried longan
- 100 g Rock sugar
- 2 Pandan leaves
- 1.5 L Water
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the lotus seeds: Rinse the dried lotus seeds thoroughly. Place them in a bowl and cover with ample water. Soak for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results. After soaking, drain the seeds and carefully remove the small, bitter green core from the center of each seed. This step is crucial for a pleasant flavor.
⏱️ 4+ hours (soaking) - 2
Cook the lotus seeds: Place the soaked and de-cored lotus seeds in a medium pot along with the knotted pandan leaves and 1.5 liters of water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer gently. Cook for approximately 40-50 minutes, or until the lotus seeds are tender and easily pierced with a fork. They should be soft but still hold their shape.
⏱️ 45-50 minutes - 3
Add sweetness and longan: Once the lotus seeds are tender, add the rock sugar and the prepared longan to the pot. Stir gently until the rock sugar has completely dissolved. Continue to simmer for another 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Remove the pandan leaves before serving.
⏱️ 5-10 minutes - 4
Serve: Ladle the Chè Hạt Sen into individual serving bowls. This dessert can be enjoyed warm, at room temperature, or chilled. For a refreshing treat, chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving.
⏱️ Optional chilling time
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Removing the green core from the lotus seeds is essential to avoid a bitter taste. Look for the small, dark green sprout in the center and gently pry it out.
- ✓The sweetness can be adjusted by adding more or less rock sugar. Taste and adjust as needed.
- ✓For a richer flavor, you can add a small piece of dried tangerine peel during the simmering process.
- ✓This dessert is often served during special occasions and celebrations due to its elegant presentation and delicate flavor.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add rehydrated white fungus (snow fungus) along with the lotus seeds for added texture and health benefits.
- Include a few pitted red dates (jujubes) when adding the rock sugar and longan for a touch of natural sweetness and color.