Tao Suan, a beloved Thai dessert, offers a delightful balance of sweet and subtly savory flavors. This creamy mung bean dessert boasts a unique texture, somewhere between a pudding and a slightly firmer custard, and its gentle sweetness makes it a refreshing treat, perfect for any occasion. The vibrant green hue comes naturally from the mung beans, making it visually appealing as well as delicious. Its simple elegance belies a depth of flavor that is both comforting and surprisingly complex. The subtle sweetness is often balanced with a hint of salt, creating a harmonious taste profile that will leave you wanting more.
This incredibly versatile dessert can be enjoyed warm or cold, making it a perfect choice for any season. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a complete novice, you'll be surprised by how easily you can recreate this authentic Thai delicacy at home. Ready to experience the magic of homemade Tao Suan? Let's dive into the step-by-step process to create this creamy, dreamy dessert.
Tools Needed
- Steamer
- Pot
- Mixing bowl
Ingredients
- Green turmeric
- Brown sugar
- Sand
- Pandan leaves
- Tapioca flour
- Rice flour: 1 tablespoon
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
- Coconut milk: 1 can (approx. 400ml)
- Mung beans
- Sugar: 300 grams
- Water: 1 liter + 1 part for mixing flour
- All-purpose flour: 4 tablespoons
- Tapioca flour (for thickening): 5 tablespoons
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Mung Beans
- Wash mung beans until water runs clear. Then soak in hot water until cooled.
- Steam the mung beans for 15-20 minutes, creating a small gap in the center for air circulation.
Step 2. Make the Coconut Milk Base
- Mix rice flour, salt, and coconut milk until dissolved.
- Cook coconut milk mixture over medium-low heat with pandan leaves until thickened.
Step 3. Cook the Thickening Agent and Combine
- Mix tapioca flour and all-purpose flour with water until smooth.
- Boil water, sugar, and pandan leaves.
- Add the flour mixture to the boiling sugar water, stirring constantly until clear.
- Add the cooked mung beans to the mixture and stir until combined.
- Continue stirring until the mixture thickens. Turn off the heat.
Step 4. Serve
- Serve warm with additional coconut milk.
Read more: Crispy Thai Corn Fritters: Easy Party Snack Recipe
Tips
- The flour mixture should be well dissolved before adding to the boiling water.
- Adjust the amount of sugar to your preference.
- Don't overcook the mung beans; they should be soft but not mushy.
- The dessert is best served fresh, but the texture will remain good if stored overnight.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 2500-3000
- Fat: approximately 40-50g
- Carbs: approximately 450-550g
- Protein: approximately 25-30g
FAQs
1. Can I use canned mung beans instead of dried?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to drain and rinse them thoroughly before using. However, the texture might be slightly different than using dried beans.
2. What can I substitute for coconut milk?
While coconut milk is traditional, you could try other plant-based milks like soy or almond milk, but the flavor will be noticeably different. The richness and creaminess might be reduced.
3. How do I store leftover Tao Suan?
Store leftover Tao Suan in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It's best served cold.
Enjoy your homemade Tao Suan! This simple recipe allows you to savor the authentic taste of Thailand in your own kitchen, and it's a delightful dessert to share with friends and family. Impress your loved ones with this surprisingly easy-to-make and incredibly delicious treat.