Teresa's Recipes
Cha Houy Teuk
Cha Houy Teuk is a delightful Cambodian dessert that beautifully combines the delicate flavors of coconut milk and pandan with the unique texture of agar agar. Often enjoyed during special occasions and festivals, this colorful treat is not only visually appealing but also offers a refreshing taste, making it a perfect end to any meal. Traditionally, it is served with an array of toppings such as sweet mung beans, ripe jackfruit, and chewy tapioca pearls, allowing each bite to be a delightful surprise.
Ingredients
- 2 teaspoons Agar agar powder
- 2 cups Water
- 2, tied in a knot Pandan leaves
- 1/2 cup, chopped Palm sugar
- 1 cup Coconut milk
- 1 cup, such as cooked mung beans, jackfruit, and tapioca pearls Assorted toppings
Dietary Notes
- Servings: 4
- Dish Type: Dessert
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Chill Time: 2 hours
- Calories: 180
- Fat: 6g
- Carbs: 30g
- Protein: 2g
- Sodium: 10mg
- Sugar: 15g
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine the agar agar powder and water. Allow the agar agar to soak for about 10 minutes to soften.
- Add the tied pandan leaves to the saucepan and bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the pandan to infuse its flavor.
- Stir in the chopped palm sugar and continue to cook until fully dissolved, about 2-3 minutes.
- Remove the pandan leaves from the mixture and discard them.
- Pour in the coconut milk, stirring gently to combine all the ingredients thoroughly.
- Remove from heat and let the mixture cool slightly at room temperature.
- Pour the warm mixture into individual serving bowls or molds, filling them about 3/4 full.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until the gelatinous dessert is fully set.
- Once set, top each serving with your choice of assorted toppings, such as cooked mung beans, sliced jackfruit, or chewy tapioca pearls, before serving.
Tips
- For a creamier texture, you can adjust the amount of coconut milk to your preference.
- Feel free to experiment with different toppings, such as sliced fruits or sweetened beans, to customize the dessert to your liking.
- To enhance the aroma, try adding a few drops of pandan extract if you cannot find fresh pandan leaves.