Vietnamese Sweet Lotus Seed Dessert (Che Hat Sen) Recipe: A Com Com Restaurant Delight

Vietnamese Sweet Lotus Seed Dessert, or Che Hat Sen, is a beloved treat in Vietnam, enjoyed for its delicate sweetness, comforting warmth, and subtle floral aroma. It’s a dessert that transcends generations, found everywhere from bustling Hanoi street corners to the cozy kitchens of Vietnamese families. At Com Com Restaurant in London, we proudly serve our own rendition of this classic, bringing a taste of authentic Vietnamese comfort food to your table. Want to learn how to make this delightful dessert yourself? This recipe will guide you through the process, unveiling the secrets to creating a perfect Che Hat Sen.

A Taste of Tradition at Com Com Restaurant

Che Hat Sen holds a special place in Vietnamese culture. Often served during family gatherings and celebrations, it symbolizes good luck, longevity, and harmony. At Com Com Restaurant, we honor this tradition by using only the finest ingredients, preparing our Che Hat Sen with the same care and attention to detail as generations of Vietnamese cooks before us. We believe that food is a powerful way to connect with culture, and our Che Hat Sen is a testament to this belief.

Com Com Restaurant's Che Hat Sen

Gathering Your Ingredients: A Trip to the Vietnamese Market (or Your Local Supermarket!)

Making Che Hat Sen is surprisingly simple. While the traditional method involves dried lotus seeds requiring soaking and simmering, you can find canned lotus seeds for convenience. Here’s what you’ll need from your local supermarket, or even better, a vibrant Vietnamese market if you’re lucky enough to have one nearby:

• Dried or canned lotus seeds
• Sugar (rock sugar is traditional, but granulated works well)
• Water
• Pandan leaves (for aroma)
• Shredded coconut (for garnish, optional)
• A pinch of salt

Ingredients for Che Hat Sen

Creating Your Che Hat Sen Masterpiece: A Step-by-Step Guide

Now, let’s get cooking! This recipe provides a simplified version, perfect for those new to Vietnamese cuisine.

1. Prepare the Lotus Seeds: If using dried lotus seeds, soak them in water for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. Drain and rinse before using. Canned lotus seeds can be rinsed and used directly.
2. Simmer the Lotus Seeds: In a pot, combine the lotus seeds with water. Add the pandan leaves (tied in a knot for easy removal). Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 30-45 minutes, or until the lotus seeds are tender.
3. Sweeten the Dessert: Add sugar to taste, stirring until dissolved. Start with a small amount and add more as needed, depending on your preference for sweetness. A pinch of salt can enhance the flavors beautifully.
4. Serve and Enjoy: Remove the pandan leaves. Ladle the Che Hat Sen into bowls. Garnish with shredded coconut, if desired. Serve warm or chilled.

Making Che Hat Sen at Home

Tips and Variations for Your Che Hat Sen Adventure

• Texture: For a creamier texture, you can blend a portion of the cooked lotus seeds before adding the sugar.
• Flavor Enhancements: A few drops of vanilla extract or a piece of ginger can add depth to the flavor.
• Seasonal Twists: Incorporate seasonal fruits like longan, lychee, or jackfruit for a refreshing twist.

Nutritional Benefits: More than Just a Sweet Treat

Che Hat Sen isn’t just delicious; it’s also packed with nutritional benefits. Lotus seeds are rich in protein, fiber, and essential minerals. They are known for their calming properties and are believed to promote restful sleep.

Pairing Your Che Hat Sen at Com Com Restaurant

At Com Com Restaurant, Che Hat Sen is the perfect ending to a delicious Vietnamese meal. Try it after our savory Pho or Bun Cha for a delightful contrast of flavors. We also offer a variety of refreshing drinks, such as Vietnamese iced coffee or fresh juices, that pair perfectly with this sweet treat.

Com Com Restaurant Interior

How to Make Che Hat Sen Vegan?

Simply ensure you’re using granulated sugar and not rock sugar, as some rock sugars are processed using bone char. Check your canned lotus seeds as well to ensure they don’t contain any animal products.

Why is Che Hat Sen considered a lucky dessert?

The lotus flower, from which the seeds are derived, is a symbol of purity and enlightenment in Vietnamese culture. This association lends Che Hat Sen a symbolic meaning of good fortune and prosperity.

Where can I find pandan leaves?

Asian grocery stores are your best bet. You can also find them online. If you can’t find them, you can omit them or substitute with a drop of vanilla extract.

Conclusion: A Sweet Escape to Vietnam at Com Com Restaurant

Che Hat Sen is more than just a dessert; it’s an experience. It’s a taste of Vietnamese tradition, a moment of comfort, and a celebration of simple pleasures. At Com Com Restaurant, we invite you to savor our authentic Che Hat Sen and discover the magic of Vietnamese cuisine. Come visit us at 183-185 Battersea Park Rd, London SW11 4LB, or call us at 020 7720 9928 to make a reservation or order for delivery. We are open daily from 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM. Share your Che Hat Sen experience with us – we’d love to hear your story! Don’t forget to try our other delightful Vietnamese dishes. We look forward to seeing you at Com Com Restaurant!