Chè Trôi Nước
Chè & Tráng miệng • Việt Nam
Về Chè Trôi Nước
Glutinous rice balls with mung bean filling in ginger syrup — Tết Hàn Thực dessert
How to Make Chè Trôi Nước (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Chè Trôi Nước is a beloved traditional Vietnamese dessert known for its delightful combination of chewy glutinous rice balls filled with sweet mung bean paste, all bathed in a fragrant ginger syrup. Originating from the rich culinary heritage of Vietnam, this dish is often enjoyed during family gatherings and special celebrations. The delicate balance of flavors—gentle sweetness, warming ginger, and the subtle nuttiness of mung beans—makes it a comforting treat that resonates with many generations. In Vietnamese culture, Chè Trôi Nước is more than just a dessert; it's a symbol of unity and togetherness. The round, floating rice balls represent wholeness and fulfillment, and they're often served during festive occasions such as Tết Nguyên Đán (Lunar New Year) or Tết Hàn Thực. Its simple, plant-based ingredients provide a naturally healthy profile, making it a smart choice for those seeking a vegetarian and wholesome dessert. This healthy adaptation uses less sugar and minimal coconut cream, ensuring you can enjoy the authentic flavors with a lighter nutritional impact.
Ingredients(for 2-3 rice balls per person with syrup)
- 1 cup Glutinous rice flour (Bột nếp)
- 1/3 cup Mung beans (peeled, split)
- 3 tablespoons Sugar (preferably raw or coconut sugar)
- 1 inch piece Fresh ginger (sliced)
- 1/4 teaspoon Salt
- 1 1/4 cups Water (for dough and syrup)
- 2 tablespoons Coconut cream (optional for garnish) - optional
- 1 teaspoon Toasted sesame seeds - optional
Instructions
- 1
Soak the mung beans in water for at least 2 hours or overnight. Drain, then steam or boil until soft, about 10 minutes.
10 minutes
Soaking the beans reduces cooking time and improves texture.
- 2
Mash the cooked mung beans with 1 tablespoon sugar and a pinch of salt until smooth. Roll into 8 small balls for filling.
5 minutes
Ensure mung bean paste is not too wet for easier shaping.
- 3
In a mixing bowl, combine glutinous rice flour with 1/2 cup water. Knead gently to form a smooth, soft dough.
3 minutes
Add water gradually to prevent sticky dough.
- 4
Divide the dough into 8 pieces. Flatten each piece, wrap around a mung bean ball, and seal well to form smooth balls.
5 minutes
Seal tightly to avoid filling leaking during cooking.
Why This Dish is Healthy
This healthy Chè Trôi Nước recipe uses less sugar and plant-based ingredients, making it lower in calories compared to traditional versions. By minimizing coconut cream and focusing on natural sweetness from mung beans, it supports balanced blood sugar levels and heart health. It's a satisfying, nutrient-dense option for those seeking lighter international desserts.
Chè Trôi Nước, when prepared with moderate sugar and minimal coconut cream, is a wholesome dessert that offers plant-based protein from mung beans, complex carbohydrates from glutinous rice flour, and beneficial antioxidants from ginger. Mung beans are rich in folate, magnesium, and fiber, which support digestion and heart health. This dessert is naturally gluten-free and low in saturated fat if coconut cream is limited or omitted.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: Use freshly grated ginger for the most aromatic syrup.
- 💡Tip 2: Knead dough only until smooth—overworking can make it tough.
- 💡Tip 3: Serve immediately for best texture, as rice balls may harden when cold.
Storage & Serving
Store leftover Chè Trôi Nước in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Warm gently before serving to restore texture.
Best served: Breakfast or Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 155.0 kcal |
| Protein | 3.0 g |
| Carbohydrates | 32.0 g |
| Total Fat | 2.0 g |
| Fiber | 1.0 g |
