Kem Dừa
Chè & Tráng miệng • Việt Nam
Về Kem Dừa (Coconut Ice Cream)
Coconut ice cream served in a young coconut shell with peanuts and sticky rice
How to Make Kem Dừa (Coconut Ice Cream) (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Kem Dừa, or Vietnamese Coconut Ice Cream, is a beloved traditional dessert that captures the tropical flavors of Vietnam in every creamy bite. Originating from bustling street corners and beachside stalls, Kem Dừa is renowned for its refreshing taste and smooth texture, making it the perfect treat to beat the sweltering heat. Prepared mainly with fresh coconut milk, shredded coconut, and a touch of natural sweetness, this ice cream is often served in a coconut shell and topped with roasted peanuts or sticky rice, offering an authentic Vietnamese culinary experience. The dish’s popularity spans from the southern regions, where coconuts are abundant, to urban cities where it is cherished as a nostalgic comfort food. Kem Dừa delights both locals and tourists alike with its unique balance of creamy richness and light, airy mouthfeel. This dessert showcases Vietnam’s resourcefulness in using local ingredients, ensuring that each scoop bursts with authentic coconut flavor. Enjoying Kem Dừa is a celebration of Vietnam’s tropical heritage and a testament to the country’s love for simple, wholesome sweets.
Ingredients(for 1 generous scoop in coconut shell or small bowl)
- 1 cup Coconut milk (sữa dừa tươi)
- 1/3 cup Shredded coconut (dừa nạo)
- 1/2 cup Coconut water (nước dừa tươi)
- 2 tbsp Maple syrup or honey (for natural sweetness)
- 1 tsp Cornstarch (bột bắp, for thickening)
- 1/2 tsp Vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp Roasted peanuts (đậu phộng rang, chopped, for topping) - optional
- 2 tbsp Sticky rice (xôi, optional for serving) - optional
- 1/8 tsp Pinch of salt (to enhance flavor)
Instructions
- 1
In a saucepan, combine coconut milk, coconut water, and shredded coconut. Heat over medium flame, stirring often to prevent scorching.
5 minutes
Use fresh coconut milk for the richest flavor.
- 2
In a small bowl, dissolve cornstarch in 2 tablespoons of cold water until smooth. Add the mixture to the saucepan, stirring continuously to prevent lumps.
2 minutes
Cornstarch helps create a creamier texture without extra fat.
- 3
Add maple syrup (or honey), vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Continue to cook the mixture, stirring frequently, until slightly thickened.
5 minutes
Adjust sweetness according to your preference.
- 4
Remove from heat and let the mixture cool to room temperature. For a smoother texture, strain out the shredded coconut or leave it in for more bite.
10 minutes
Cooling prevents ice crystals from forming during freezing.
Why This Dish is Healthy
This traditional Vietnamese ice cream is a healthier dessert choice because it swaps refined sugar for natural sweeteners and omits heavy cream. Coconut milk offers beneficial fats and antioxidants, while the absence of artificial ingredients makes it suitable for clean eating. The recipe can be easily adapted for lower calories or special diets, making Kem Dừa a guilt-free indulgence for those who track their nutrition.
Kem Dừa is naturally dairy-free and vegetarian, relying on coconut milk for its creamy texture and flavor. Coconut milk provides medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which may support metabolism, while shredded coconut adds fiber and essential minerals like manganese and copper. Using natural sweeteners such as honey or maple syrup keeps the glycemic load moderate. The inclusion of peanuts adds a dose of plant-based protein and healthy fats, making this dessert both satisfying and nourishing.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: For the creamiest texture, stir or whisk the mixture several times during freezing.
- 💡Tip 2: Use freshly pressed coconut milk for the most authentic flavor.
- 💡Tip 3: Toast the shredded coconut before adding for a deeper, nuttier taste.
Storage & Serving
Store Kem Dừa in an airtight container in the freezer for up to one week. Allow it to sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before scooping to soften. Avoid repeated thawing and refreezing to maintain the best texture.
Best served: Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 185.0 kcal |
| Protein | 2.5 g |
| Carbohydrates | 22.0 g |
| Total Fat | 10.0 g |
| Fiber | 1.0 g |
