As I stood in my kitchen, the aromatic scent of ripe bananas wafted through the air. I was about to embark on creating something magical: Banana Tapioca Pudding (Che Chuoi). This beloved Vietnamese dessert is not only a feast for the senses but also a surprisingly simple recipe that’s dairy-free and vegetarian. With its delightful combination of creamy coconut milk, tender bananas, and chewy tapioca pearls, this pudding transforms a few pantry staples into a warm hug in a bowl. Perfect for cozy evenings or impressing guests, Che Chuoi is a comforting dish that brings the authentic taste of Vietnam to your home. Are you ready to whisk together this sweet masterpiece?

Why is Che Chuoi a Must-Try?

Simplicity: This recipe requires just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, making it perfect for a quick yet impressive dessert.

Dairy-Free Delight: With its creamy coconut base, it’s an indulgent option for those avoiding dairy without sacrificing taste.

Versatile: Feel free to get creative! You can swap bananas for other fruits like mango or taro, or even adjust the sweetness to your liking.

Authenticity: Each bite of this Banana Tapioca Pudding (Che Chuoi) transports you straight to the heart of Vietnam, offering a true taste of its rich culinary heritage.

Crowd Pleaser: Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish is sure to satisfy and delight your guests, just like the charming recipes found in Chocolate Espresso Banana.

Enjoy it warm or chilled, and don’t forget to top it off with crushed peanuts for an extra crunch!

Banana Tapioca Pudding Ingredients

For the Pudding
• Small Tapioca Pearls – Creates the chewy texture that defines the pudding; opt for small pearls for the best result.
• Bananas – Use firm, ripe bananas for natural sweetness; pisang awak is a great choice for authenticity.
• Water – The essential base liquid for cooking the tapioca, ensuring it softens properly.
• Coconut Milk – Adds a rich, creamy flavor to the pudding; adjust the amount to your desired thickness.
• Sugar – Enhances the sweetness of the pudding; remember, bananas provide natural sugar, so use sparingly.

For Garnishing
• Unsalted Roasted Peanuts – Adds a delightful crunch and depth of flavor when sprinkled on top; a must for presentation!

Indulge your senses with this simple yet delightful Banana Tapioca Pudding (Che Chuoi) that brings warmth and comfort to your dessert table.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Banana Tapioca Pudding (Che Chuoi)

Step 1: Prep Tapioca
Start by soaking ½ cup of small tapioca pearls in water for 1 hour. After soaking, drain the pearls in a fine sieve, allowing any excess water to escape. This step ensures that the tapioca pearls achieve the perfect chewy texture in your Banana Tapioca Pudding (Che Chuoi).

Step 2: Prep Bananas
While the tapioca is soaking, peel and slice 2 firm, ripe bananas into ¾-inch thick pieces. Make sure the bananas are not overly ripe to maintain their shape during cooking. Set these beautiful banana slices aside, as they will add natural sweetness to the creamy pudding.

Step 3: Cook Tapioca
In a medium saucepan, bring 1 cup of water to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, carefully add in the drained tapioca pearls, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cook while stirring frequently for 4 to 5 minutes, or until the tapioca pearls become nearly transparent and chewy in texture.

Step 4: Add Coconut Milk
Stir in 1 cup of coconut milk and 2 tablespoons of sugar into the saucepan, mixing well. Increase the heat slightly until the mixture approaches a gentle boil, continuing to stir frequently. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the tapioca to fully absorb the coconut flavor and become completely translucent.

Step 5: Incorporate Bananas
Gently fold in the sliced bananas into the tapioca mixture. Simmer over low heat for another 2-3 minutes until the bananas soften slightly but hold their shape. Taste the mixture and adjust the sugar according to your preference for sweetness, ensuring a perfect balance in your Banana Tapioca Pudding (Che Chuoi).

Step 6: Serve
Once the pudding is ready, carefully spoon the warm mixture into bowls or glasses. To elevate your presentation, sprinkle each serving with crushed unsalted roasted peanuts for a delightful crunch. This finishing touch not only enhances the flavor but also adds texture to your inviting Banana Tapioca Pudding (Che Chuoi).

How to Store and Freeze Banana Tapioca Pudding

Fridge: Store your Banana Tapioca Pudding (Che Chuoi) in an airtight container; it will keep well for up to 2-3 days. Just remember to reheat gently before serving for the best experience.
Freezer: While best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the pudding for up to one month. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving space for expansion, and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat, place your pudding in a saucepan over low heat, stirring gently to regain its creamy texture. Alternatively, microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through.
Texture Reminder: Keep in mind that the texture may change slightly after freezing, particularly with the tapioca pearls; however, the delightful flavor remains intact!

Make Ahead Options

Preparing your Banana Tapioca Pudding (Che Chuoi) ahead of time is a fantastic way to save precious minutes during busy weeknights. You can soak the tapioca pearls and slice the bananas up to 24 hours in advance. Just make sure to store the soaked tapioca in an airtight container, and the banana slices in a small bowl with a splash of lemon juice to prevent browning. When you’re ready to enjoy your pudding, simply cook the tapioca with water, add coconut milk and sugar, and fold in the bananas. Simmer for a few minutes, and you’ve got a comforting dessert that’s just as delicious as when freshly made!

What to Serve with Banana Tapioca Pudding (Che Chuoi)

Indulge in a harmonious meal experience, complementing your sweet and creamy creation with perfectly paired dishes.

Coconut Sticky Rice: The chewy, sweet rice enhances the tropical flavors of your pudding, creating a delightful dessert duo. Serve it warm alongside for an authentic taste of Southeast Asia.
Tropical Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of mango, pineapple, and kiwi will brighten the palate, adding an explosive burst of color and sweetness that balances the creamy pudding.
Vietnamese Coffee: The rich, bold flavor of this classic drink creates a wonderful contrast to the lightness of Che Chuoi, offering a delightful end to your meal.
Pandan Waffles: These fragrant green waffles provide a unique texture and flavor that beautifully harmonizes with the pudding, creating a delightful fusion of taste.
Mango Sorbet: Light and fruity, the sorbet offers a refreshing cleanse to the palate and pairs well with the warm tapioca, enhancing each bite’s sweetness.
Roasted Coconut Chips: For a crunchy element, sprinkle these on top of your pudding to tie in its coconut flavor while adding a satisfying texture.

Embrace this comforting assortment and elevate your dessert experience for any gathering or quiet evening in!

Banana Tapioca Pudding (Che Chuoi) Variations

Embrace the opportunity to make this delightful recipe truly your own, letting your creativity shine in the kitchen!

Authentic Flavor: Substitute regular bananas with pisang awak for a richer taste and traditional texture that brings authenticity to your dessert.
Fruit Medley: Add additional fruits like mango or taro to the pudding for a vibrant twist. Their unique flavors will enhance every spoonful and add beautiful color to your dish.
Creamy Coconut: For an extra creamy pudding, replace some of the water with more coconut milk while cooking. This rich exchange brings a tropical retreat to every bite.
Sweetness Adjustments: Feel free to experiment with different sweeteners like maple syrup or honey to suit your taste preferences while keeping the pudding delightfully sweet.
Texture Play: To create a thicker pudding, let the tapioca pearls cook longer, or reduce the coconut milk. Enjoy the luxurious, dense texture this method provides!
Nutty Delights: Experiment with different toppings like toasted coconut flakes or a sprinkle of sesame seeds for added texture and a lovely nutty flavor that complements the pudding beautifully.
Chill It: If you prefer a refreshing treat, cool your pudding in the refrigerator after cooking. This allows the flavors to meld together and offers a delightful chilled dessert option.
Spiced Variation: Introduce a pinch of cinnamon or a drop of vanilla extract to enhance the warmth and aroma of your Banana Tapioca Pudding, creating an inviting flavor profile.

Feel free to make each variation yours! And if you’re looking to explore other delicious desserts, why not check out this enticing Chocolate Espresso Banana recipe for another sweet indulgence?

Helpful Tricks for Banana Tapioca Pudding

• Banana Selection: Use firm, ripe bananas for the best results. Overripe bananas will turn mushy during cooking, detracting from the dish’s perfect texture.

• Sugar Adjustment: Taste your pudding before serving and adjust the sugar if necessary. Traditional Vietnamese desserts aren’t overly sweet, so let the natural flavors shine.

• Thicker or Thinner: Want a thicker pudding? Reduce the amount of coconut milk or cook the tapioca longer. For a thinner consistency, feel free to add more coconut milk during the cooking process.

• Garnish Tips: Don’t skip the crushed unsalted roasted peanuts! They add a delightful crunch and a lovely contrast to the creamy Banana Tapioca Pudding (Che Chuoi).

• Make Ahead: You can prepare this pudding ahead of time. Store it in the fridge for up to 2-3 days and gently reheat before serving for a comforting dessert any time.

Banana Tapioca Pudding (Che Chuoi) Recipe FAQs

What type of bananas should I use for making Banana Tapioca Pudding?
I recommend using firm, ripe bananas for the best texture and flavor in your Banana Tapioca Pudding (Che Chuoi). Avoid overly ripe bananas as they can turn mushy during cooking. If you can find pisang awak bananas, they are a fantastic choice for an authentic taste!

How should I store leftover Banana Tapioca Pudding?
To store your Banana Tapioca Pudding (Che Chuoi), transfer it to an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 2-3 days. Just remember to reheat it gently before serving to enjoy it at its best!

Can I freeze Banana Tapioca Pudding?
Absolutely! You can freeze Banana Tapioca Pudding for up to one month. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat over low heat on the stove or in the microwave.

What if the pudding turns out too thick or too thin?
No worries! If your Banana Tapioca Pudding ends up too thick, simply stir in a bit more coconut milk while reheating to achieve your desired consistency. Conversely, if it’s too thin, you can cook it a little longer over low heat to help it thicken up. Just keep stirring gently!

Can I make this dessert vegan or gluten-free?
Yes! This Banana Tapioca Pudding (Che Chuoi) is already dairy-free and vegetarian, making it suitable for a plant-based diet. It’s also gluten-free, so it’s a great dessert option for anyone with gluten sensitivities or allergies!

How long does the texture of the pudding hold up after making it?
The texture of your Banana Tapioca Pudding will be best enjoyed fresh but will still be decent for 2-3 days in the fridge. Just remember that freezing may change the texture slightly, particularly the chewiness of the tapioca pearls, but the flavor will remain delicious!