Hue Food Tour – Discovering the Irresistible Hue Sweet Soup

Introduction to Hue’s Culinary Scene

Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam, is famous for its rich history and cultural heritage and its diverse and flavorful culinary scene. The city's cuisine is a perfect blend of royal elegance and local flavors, making it a paradise for food enthusiasts worldwide.

Why Hue is a Must-Visit for Food Lovers

Hue's culinary offerings are truly unique, with dishes that showcase the city's imperial past and its close connection to nature. Some of the must-try dishes include:

1. Bun Bo Hue: A spicy and savory beef noodle soup with a fragrant lemongrass broth.
2. Banh Beo: Small, steamed rice cakes topped with dried shrimp, pork cracklings, and scallion oil.
3. Com Hen: A hearty rice dish served with tiny clams, peanuts, herbs, and a flavorful broth.
4. Banh Khoai: A crispy rice flour crepe filled with shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts, served with a sweet and spicy dipping sauce.

These dishes showcase the creativity and sophistication of Hue's culinary traditions, making the city a must-visit for any food lover.

Hue Sweet Soup (Che Hue): A Unique Vietnamese Dessert Experience

One of the most beloved desserts in Hue is the Hue Sweet Soup, also known as Che Hue. This refreshing and colorful dessert is a perfect way to end a meal or to enjoy as a midday treat. 

What makes Che Hue special is the way it looks. Each bowl is carefully made, with the ingredients arranged in pretty layers or patterns. The bright colors of the jellies, fruits, and beans make the dessert look as good as it tastes.

A food tour in Hue would not be complete without trying the irresistible Hue Sweet Soup. This unique and beautiful dessert shows the city's rich food history and its focus on keeping traditional flavors and cooking methods alive. So, when in Hue, be sure to try this sweet and refreshing treat!

What is Hue Sweet Soup (Che Hue)?

Hue Sweet Soup, or Che Hue, is a traditional Vietnamese dessert that originated in the city of Hue. It is a cold, sweet soup made with a variety of ingredients such as beans, jellies, fruits, and tapioca pearls, all combined in a sweet coconut milk or syrup base. The dessert is known for its vibrant colors, diverse textures, and refreshing flavors.

The History and Cultural Significance of Che Hue

Che Hue has a long history tied to Hue's imperial past. During the Nguyen Dynasty (1802-1945), Che Hue was served as a delicacy in the royal palace. Over time, it became more widely available and popular among the general population. Today, Che Hue is an essential part of Hue's culinary identity, with family recipes passed down through generations.

How Hue’s Sweet Soup Reflects Vietnamese Culinary Heritage

Che Hue exemplifies several key aspects of Vietnamese culinary heritage:

• Use of fresh, seasonal ingredients
• Balance of flavors and textures
• Emphasis on presentation
• Adaptability and regional variations

Che Hue reflects Vietnam's rich culinary heritage and showcases the skill, creativity, and passion of Hue's culinary artisans. By savoring a bowl of Che Hue, one can experience the unique flavors, textures, and traditions of Vietnamese cuisine.

Types of Hue Sweet Soups You Must Try

  1. Che Hat Sen (Lotus Seed Sweet Soup)

Che Hat Sen is a beloved variation of Hue Sweet Soup that features lotus seeds as the main ingredient. Lotus seeds are highly prized in Vietnamese cuisine for their delicate flavor, nutritional value, and cultural significance.

The Symbolism and Flavor of Lotus in Hue’s Desserts

In Vietnamese culture, the lotus symbolizes purity, beauty, and spiritual awakening. The use of lotus seeds in Che Hat Sen reflects this symbolism and Hue's connection to nature. Lotus seeds have a mildly sweet and nutty flavor that complements the sweetness of the syrup or coconut milk base in Che Hat Sen.

Where to Try Che Hat Sen in Hue

When visiting Hue, there are several places where you can savor the delightful taste of Che Hat Sen:

1. Che Ba Cang: This popular dessert shop, located near Dong Ba Market, is famous for its Che Hat Sen and other traditional Hue desserts.
    
2. Che Hem: A small alley near Dong Ba Market, Che Hem is known for its wide variety of Hue sweet soups, including Che Hat Sen.
    
3. Street vendors: You can often find Che Hat Sen sold by street vendors in the evenings, especially around popular tourist areas like the Imperial City and the Perfume River.

When trying Che Hat Sen, take a moment to appreciate the subtle flavor of the lotus seeds and the way they harmonize with the other ingredients. This simple yet elegant dessert offers a true taste of Hue's culinary heritage and the city's deep connection to nature and spirituality.

2. Che Dau Van (Mung Bean Sweet Soup)

A Classic, Creamy Dessert Loved by Locals

Che Dau Van is another classic variation of Hue Sweet Soup that showcases the versatility and deliciousness of mung beans. This creamy and comforting dessert is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

Mung beans have been a staple in Vietnamese cuisine for centuries, and Che Dau Van is a testament to their enduring popularity. The dessert is loved for its smooth, creamy texture and its mildly sweet, nutty flavor.

In Hue, Che Dau Van is often enjoyed as an afternoon snack or a light dessert after a meal. It is especially popular during the summer months, as its cool temperature and refreshing ingredients provide a welcome respite from the heat.

Unique Ingredients and How It’s Made

To make Che Dau Van, cooked and mashed mung beans are combined with coconut milk, sugar, and a pinch of salt to create a rich, flavorful base. A unique ingredient in Che Dau Van is "bot bang," a special type of rice flour that gives the dessert its distinctive smooth, slightly chewy texture.

To try Che Dau Van in Hue, head to local markets, street vendors, or specialized dessert shops. When savoring this classic dessert, appreciate the simple yet satisfying combination of mung beans, coconut milk, and bot bang – a true reflection of Hue's culinary ingenuity and dedication to traditional flavors.

3. Che Bot Loc Heo Quay (Tapioca Sweet Soup with Roast Pork)

Sweet and Savory: A Surprise for First-Time Diners

Che Bot Loc Heo Quay is a unique variation of Hue Sweet Soup that unexpectedly combines sweet and savory flavors. This dessert features tapioca dumplings filled with savory roast pork, served in a sweet coconut milk broth.

The combination of sweet soup and savory pork may seem unusual, but it showcases the creativity and boldness of Hue's culinary tradition. The tapioca dumplings are filled with finely chopped roast pork seasoned with garlic, shallots, and fish sauce, giving them a savory, umami-rich flavor.

How It Combines Textures and Flavors in Hue Cuisine

The filled tapioca dumplings are served in a sweet, creamy coconut milk broth, balancing the richness of the pork filling. Che Bot Loc Heo Quay exemplifies the Hue culinary philosophy of balancing contrasting flavors and textures within a single dish.

To try Che Bot Loc Heo Quay in Hue, visit local markets or street vendors specializing in Hue cuisine. When enjoying this dessert, appreciate the ingenuity and skillfulness of Hue's culinary artisans, who have created a truly unique and memorable dish that challenges conventional notions of sweet and savory flavors.

4. Che Troi Nuoc (Glutinous Rice Balls in Sweet Ginger Syrup)

A Comforting Hue Dessert for Rainy Days

Che Troi Nuoc is a comforting Hue dessert that is especially popular during the cooler, rainy months. This warm, sweet soup features soft, chewy glutinous rice balls served in a fragrant ginger syrup.

On chilly, damp days, a bowl of Che Troi Nuoc is the perfect way to warm up and lift one's spirits. The ginger syrup helps to combat the cold and is believed to have warming properties in traditional Vietnamese medicine.

The glutinous rice balls are made from a mixture of glutinous rice flour and water, which is kneaded into a smooth dough. Small portions of the dough are then rolled into balls and cooked in boiling water until they float to the surface, indicating that they are done.

The Importance of Texture and Sweetness Balance

The texture of the glutinous rice balls is crucial to enjoying Che Troi Nuoc. They should be soft and chewy, with a slightly sticky texture that complements the smooth, syrupy broth.

The ginger syrup is made by simmering water, sugar, and fresh ginger slices until the mixture thickens and becomes fragrant. The sweetness of the syrup is balanced by the slight spiciness of the ginger, creating a warming and soothing flavor profile.

To try Che Troi Nuoc in Hue, visit local markets, street vendors, or dessert shops during the cooler months. This comforting dessert is a testament to how Hue's culinary traditions are closely tied to the changing seasons and the importance of nourishing both body and soul.

5. Che Dau Do (Red Bean Sweet Soup)

Che Dau Do is a nutritious and flavorful variation of Hue Sweet Soup that showcases the natural sweetness and creamy texture of red beans. This dessert is enjoyed year-round and is known for its health benefits.

Health Benefits and Unique Preparation of Red Bean Soup

Red beans are an excellent source of protein, fiber, and various vitamins and minerals. In Hue, Che Dau Do is uniquely prepared with a small amount of fermented rice wine (ruou nep), adding a subtle depth of flavor and pleasant aroma.

Seasonal Variations and Where to Try Che Dau Do

Che Dau Do has seasonal variations, incorporating fresh fruits in summer and warm, toasted seeds or nuts in cooler months. To try Che Dau Do in Hue, visit local markets, street vendors, or specialized dessert shops like Che Hem or the stalls near Dong Ba Market.

Where to Find the Best Hue Sweet Soups

Local Markets and Street Vendors Specializing in Che Hue

The bustling Dong Ba Market remains the prime spot for authentic Che Hue, particularly in the dessert section. Street vendors cluster around Tran Hung Dao Street and Nguyen Dinh Chieu Street during evening hours.

Top Hue Cafes and Dessert Shops for Authentic Che Hue

• Che Hem (2 Truong Dinh Street)
• Che Ba Cang (29 Tran Hung Dao Street)
• Che Song Huong (29 Hung Vuong Street)
• Che Hong Mai (23 Hung Vuong Street)

Suggested Stops on Your Hue Food Tour

• Start at Dong Ba Market in the morning
• Visit Che Hem for their signature lotus seed soup
• Try Che Ba Cang's mung bean varieties in the afternoon
• End the evening with street vendors near the Perfume River

How to Enjoy Hue Sweet Soups Like a Local

Etiquette and Tips for Ordering Che Hue

When ordering Hue sweet soups (che Hue) from local vendors, keep these etiquette tips in mind:

• Greet the vendor with a friendly smile and "xin chao" (hello).
• Point to the che you want if you're unsure of the name. Most vendors will let you sample a small taste first.
• Specify any toppings or added ingredients you'd like such as jellies, beans, or coconut milk.
• Find a spot to sit and enjoy your che. Slurping is acceptable and shows you're enjoying it!
• Return your empty bowl or cup to the vendor and say "cam on" (thank you).

Pairing Hue Sweet Soups with Traditional Vietnamese Drinks

Che Hue can be deliciously paired with these popular Vietnamese beverages:

• Ca phe sua da (Vietnamese iced coffee): The bitterness of the strong coffee is an excellent contrast to the sweetness of che.
• Tra da (iced green tea): Unsweetened green tea is a refreshing palate cleanser between spoonfuls of rich che.
• Nuoc mia (sugarcane juice): The grassy sweetness of fresh-pressed sugarcane juice complements the complex flavors in che.
• Sinh to (fruit smoothie): A sinh to made with tropical fruits like mango, durian or jackfruit pairs well with coconutty che.

The Art of Making Hue Sweet Soup

Traditional Ingredients and Cooking Techniques

The foundation of Hue sweet soups lies in carefully selected ingredients like sticky rice, tapioca, mung beans, and lotus seeds. Local artisans use traditional cooking methods passed down through generations. Key techniques include slowly simmering ingredients to extract maximum flavor, achieving the perfect consistency for various starches, and creating balanced sweetness using palm sugar or rock sugar. Ginger and pandan leaves are often used to add subtle aromatics.

How Each Che Hue Type is Prepared with Local Ingredients

Each variety requires specific preparation methods:

• Che Hat Sen: Lotus seeds are carefully extracted and soaked overnight. They're gently simmered until tender while maintaining their shape and subtle fragrance.
• Che Dau Van: Mung beans are soaked, peeled, and cooked until soft. They're then mashed and combined with coconut milk and bot bang rice flour for the signature smooth texture.
• Che Bot Loc Heo Quay: Tapioca dumplings are handmade by mixing tapioca flour with water to form a translucent dough. The roast pork filling is finely chopped and seasoned before being wrapped in the dough.
• Che Troi Nuoc: Glutinous rice flour is kneaded with water until elastic. Small balls are formed and cooked in ginger-infused syrup until they float.
• Che Dau Do: Red beans require extended soaking and careful simmering to achieve the right texture. A touch of fermented rice wine adds complexity to the flavor.

Planning Your Hue Food Tour

Recommended Stops for a Full Hue Food Experience

A comprehensive food tour in Hue should combine markets, street vendors, and established eateries. Start at Dong Ba Market in the morning when vendors offer the freshest che. Explore smaller neighborhood markets like Tay Loc or An Cuu for local variations. Threeland Travel offers guided food tours that include transportation and insider access to hidden culinary gems, with expert guides who can explain the cultural significance of each dish.

Including Sweet Soup Tastings in Your Hue Tour Itinerary

Morning (9:00-11:00):

• Begin with Che Hat Sen at Dong Ba Market
• Visit traditional sweet soup stalls recommended by Threeland Travel guides

Afternoon (2:00-5:00):

• Try Che Dau Van at Che Hem
• Sample Che Bot Loc Heo Quay at specialty vendors
• Visit Che Ba Cang for its famous mung bean varieties

Evening (6:00-8:00):

• Evening food walk along the Perfume River
• Experience street-side che vendors
• End with warm Che Troi Nuoc at local night markets

Threeland Travel can customize food tours to match your preferences and dietary requirements while ensuring you experience the best of Hue's sweet soup culture.

Conclusion

Why Hue Sweet Soup is a Must-Try for Dessert Lovers

Hue's sweet soups are a refined culinary experience, expertly balancing sweetness and aromatic ingredients. Threeland Travel's tours let visitors discover these comforting yet sophisticated desserts, from delicate lotus seed che to bold sweet-savory che bot loc heo quay - an unforgettable taste of Vietnam's imperial cuisine.

How Hue Sweet Soups Reflect the Heart of Vietnamese Culture

Hue sweet soups embody Vietnam's culinary philosophy of balance and harmony. They showcase local ingredients, traditional methods, and the importance of shared meals. More than just desserts, they bring people together—a cherished part of Vietnam's rich cultural tapestry that has been preserved for generations.

FAQs About Hue Sweet Soup

What are the best times to find Hue sweet soups fresh?

Most vendors prepare fresh batches early in the morning (6-8 AM) and late in the afternoon (3-5 PM). Morning markets offer the freshest ingredients, while evening street vendors often prepare special varieties. Some popular dessert shops serve fresh che throughout the day.

Are there vegan-friendly Hue sweet soup options?

Many traditional Hue sweet soups are naturally vegan, including che dau xanh (mung bean), che hat sen (lotus seed), and che dau do (red bean). Just request "khong sua dua" (no coconut milk) if you want to avoid coconut milk, and confirm there's no dairy-based condensed milk.

How much do traditional Hue sweet soups typically cost?

Street vendors and markets typically charge 15,000-30,000 VND ($0.60-1.20 USD) per bowl. Established dessert shops may charge 25,000-50,000 VND ($1-2 USD), with premium varieties or special toppings costing slightly more