Chè Mè Đen - Black Sesame Sweet Soup

You may not know this beauty yet, but black sesame sweet soup has been around for the longest time in Vietnam’s top desserts. A simple bowl of goodness which captured one’s heart solely for its phenomenal flavor.

What Is Black Sesame Sweet Soup (Che Me Den)?

Black sesame sweet soup (che me den) came from China. Ever since it was imported to Hoi An by traders, the delicious soup has become one of the most beloved desserts in Vietnam. The dish looks simple with a black soup mainly made from black sesame and kudzu root starch (or rice flour).

People reportedly love it for its delicate, refined taste. The mildly toasted sesame gives this soup a woody, aromatic note, which pairs perfectly with the slightly rich texture from the kudzu root starch. Since sugar can ruin the fresh flavor so normally, vendors put sugar in as little as possible. That’s why this will be perfect for those who dislike sugar, but don’t worry, you can add in more. It’s best when served hot.

As for health benefit, thanks to its key ingredient – black sesame – the dessert is said to give you better digestion and shinier hair.

Black sesame sweet soup is a favorite for its smooth texture and tender flavor

How Is Black Sesame Sweet Soup (Che Me Den) Made?

For such an elegant dessert, it’s incredibly easy to make. Firstly, soak the sesame seeds in water, let them dry then toast in a frying pan. Then, blend the sesame with coconut water and cook the kudzu starch in water. Finally, combine the two mixtures and you’ve got a healthy dessert.

Note: Good sesame looks shiny (not greasy) and has a light smell. They will drown when you put them in the water.

Good sesame is key to the perfect-tasting black sesame sweet soup.

Places To Try Black Sesame Sweet Soup In Saigon

Che Me Den

Address: 149, Nguyen Thai Binh Street, Nguyen Thai Binh Ward, District 1
Opening hours: 10 AM – 9 PM
Average price: VND 10,000 – VND 20,000

Che Me Den Luom

Address: 27A, Nguyen Van Dau Street, Ward 6, Binh Thanh District
Opening hours: 2:30 PM – 6:30 PM
Average price: VND 7,000 – VND 10,000

Che Me Den Co Hoa

Address: 137, Huynh Khuong An Street, Ward 5, Go Vap District
Opening hours: 7 AM – 10 PM
Average price: VND 8,000 – VND 15,000

Black sesame sweet soup at Che Me Den on Nguyen Thai Binh street.

Summary On Black Sesame Sweet Soup (Che Me Den)

Dessert is an integral part of Vietnamese street food culture, and black sesame sweet soup is a notable representative for the Chinese-inspired part. Try and see how a dessert doesn’t have to be sweet.

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