How to Make Che Vietnamese Dessert (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Che, a traditional Vietnamese dessert, is beloved for its refreshing, mildly sweet, and nourishing qualities. Though Che originated outside India, its vibrant medley of coconut milk, seasonal fruits, and pulses makes it a delightful choice for Indian palates, especially during the hot summer months or festive gatherings. In India, this dessert is reminiscent of popular sweet dishes like payasam or kheer, offering a unique twist with its layered textures and flavors. This health-conscious version of Che uses jaggery (gur) instead of refined sugar, and incorporates local ingredients like sabudana (tapioca pearls), moong dal, and fresh coconut, making it both nutritious and suitable for the Indian climate. The creamy coconut base, paired with the natural sweetness of fruits and the protein-rich dal, makes Che a perfect vegetarian dessert for lunch, especially during festivals like Holi or as a cooling end to a spicy meal. Its adaptability to local tastes and ingredients makes Che a new favorite among Indian households seeking variety and wellness in their diet.
Ingredients
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1 · Soak sabudana in water for 2 hours until soft
Soak sabudana in water for 2 hours until soft. Rinse and drain.
Step 2 · Boil moong dal with a pinch of salt until just cooked but not mushy
Boil moong dal with a pinch of salt until just cooked but not mushy. Drain and set aside.
Step 3 · In a saucepan
In a saucepan, add soaked sabudana and 1 cup water. Cook on medium flame till pearls turn translucent.
Step 4 · Add coconut milk and jaggery to the saucepan
Add coconut milk and jaggery to the saucepan. Mix well and simmer for 3-4 minutes till jaggery melts.
Step 5 · Add cooked moong dal
Add cooked moong dal, chia seeds (if using), and vanilla essence. Stir gently and cook for 2-3 more minutes.
Step 6 · Turn off heat
Turn off heat. Allow the dessert to cool slightly. Add diced fruits and top with roasted peanuts before serving.
Step 7 · Serve chilled or at room temperature in bowls
Serve chilled or at room temperature in bowls.
Why this recipe is healthy
Choosing Che made with coconut milk and jaggery instead of refined sugar means lower glycemic load and better mineral content. It’s a light, low-oil dessert that fits easily into a balanced Indian meal. The use of pulses and fruits supports sustained energy and better digestion, while making it a guilt-free treat even for those watching their weight or blood sugar levels.
A note on tradition
While Che is not traditional to India, its similarity to Indian payasam and kheer has made it a popular fusion dessert, especially in metropolitan cities and during summer festivals. Indian adaptations often use locally available fruits and coconut, aligning with the country's rich tradition of milk- and coconut-based sweets. It is commonly enjoyed as a refreshing midday sweet during Holi or family get-togethers.