Banana with Tapioca and Coconut Milk

Prep Time 10 mins

Cook Time 25 mins

Total Time 35 mins

Cooking Method: Boiling, Simmering

Cuisine: Vietnamese

Courses: Comfort Food, Desserts, Street Food

Difficulty: Beginner

Servings: 6

Best Season: Suitable throughout the year, Summer

Description

Chè chuối is a creamy Vietnamese dessert that blends the sweetness of bananas, the richness of coconut milk, and the chewy texture of tapioca pearls. With its pudding-like consistency, this dish stands out for its unique combination of flavors and textures. Served warm or at room temperature, chè chuối is a delightful way to end a meal, offering a comforting and satisfying treat that highlights the simplicity and warmth of Vietnamese cuisine.

Ingredients

4 bananas (ripe, preferably plantains or saba bananas)
1/4 cup small tapioca pearls
1 3/4 cups coconut milk
1 cup water
1/2 cup sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
1/4 cup roasted peanuts, crushed, or toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)

Instructions

Prepare the Tapioca Pearls:

1
In a small pot, bring 1 cup of water to a boil.
2
Add the tapioca pearls and cook until they turn translucent, about 10-15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
3
Once cooked, drain and rinse the tapioca pearls under cold water to remove excess starch. Set aside.

Cook the Bananas:

4
Peel the bananas and cut them into bite-sized pieces. In a medium saucepan, combine the coconut milk, 1 cup of water, sugar, and salt. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
5
Add the banana pieces to the coconut milk mixture and cook until the bananas are tender, about 10 minutes.

Combine and Flavor:

6
Once the bananas are cooked, stir in the cooked tapioca pearls. If using, add the vanilla extract for extra flavor.
7
Continue to simmer for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Serve:

8
Serve warm or at room temperature.
9
Garnish with crushed roasted peanuts or toasted sesame seeds for added texture and flavor.

Maricel's Tips

If you can, use plantains or saba bananas for this recipe. Their firm texture and natural sweetness make them ideal for cooking and pair beautifully with the rich coconut milk.

Feel free to adjust the amount of sugar to your taste. If you prefer a less sweet dessert, start with 1/4 cup of sugar and add more if needed. The natural sweetness of the bananas will also contribute to the flavor.

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