Coconut Milk Braised Red Beans – Delicious Recipe for Summer Refreshment

Do you love traditional sweet soups? Are you looking for a tasty and nutritious dish to cool down on hot summer days? Let’s explore the recipe for coconut milk braised red beans – a simple yet appealing dish with a rich, sweet, and nutritious flavor.

Why Coconut Milk Braised Red Beans Are a Favorite Dish?

Coconut milk braised red beans are not only a delicious dessert but also offer many health benefits. With red beans as the main ingredient – a food rich in fiber, vitamin B, iron, and minerals – this dish helps detoxify the body, supports digestion, and boosts heart health. Combined with refreshing coconut water, the dish becomes balanced in flavor and nutrition, suitable for all ages.

• Easy to prepare: Simple ingredients, easy to find, and a straightforward cooking process.
• Effective heat relief: Red beans have a cooling nature, ideal for enjoying on hot summer days.
• Comprehensive nutrition: Provides protein, fiber, and essential nutrients.
• Unique flavor: The richness of coconut milk blends perfectly with the nutty texture of red beans, creating an unforgettable taste.

Coconut Milk Braised Red Beans

Preparing Ingredients for Coconut Milk Braised Red Beans

To make coconut milk braised red beans with authentic flavor, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 200g dried red beans
• 400ml fresh coconut water (prefer fresh coconut water for the best flavor)
• 100ml coconut cream
• 80-100g sugar (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla (optional)
• Pandan leaves (about 2-3 leaves, if available)

Ingredients for Coconut Milk Braised Red Beans

Detailed Instructions for Making Coconut Milk Braised Red Beans

1. Preparing the Red Beans

Wash the red beans thoroughly, removing any damaged or shriveled beans. Soak the beans in warm water for 4-6 hours or overnight to soften them and reduce cooking time.

2. Boiling the Red Beans

Place the soaked red beans in a pot, adding enough water to cover the beans by about two finger widths. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook until the beans are tender. If the water level decreases, add more water gradually to prevent the beans from burning.

3. Braising with Coconut Milk

Once the beans are soft, add the fresh coconut water to the pot, along with sugar and salt. Bring to a boil again, then reduce to a simmer and continue braising for about 20-30 minutes until the coconut milk thickens and the beans absorb the flavors.

4. Finishing with Coconut Cream

Finally, add the coconut cream to the pot, stir well, and bring to a gentle boil. If desired, add a few drops of vanilla for extra fragrance. Turn off the heat and let it cool.

5. Serving

Spoon the coconut milk braised red beans into bowls and serve hot or cold, according to your preference. You can also sprinkle with shredded coconut or roasted peanuts for added flavor.

Tips:

• To soften the beans faster, add a pinch of salt while boiling.
• For a smoother texture, lightly mash the beans during the braising process.
• No fresh coconut water? You can use canned coconut water, though the flavor won’t be as rich.

Serving Coconut Milk Braised Red Beans

Creative Variations with Coconut Milk Braised Red Beans

If you want to get creative, try these interesting variations:

• Coconut Milk Braised Red Beans with Tapioca Pearls: Add chewy tapioca pearls for a new twist.
• Coconut Milk Braised Red Beans with Grass Jelly: Combine with cool grass jelly, perfect for heat relief.
• Coconut Milk Braised Red Beans with Black Sticky Rice: Add fragrant black sticky rice to enhance nutritional value.
• Coconut Milk Braised Red Beans with Ice Cream: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a perfect hot-cold combination.

Expert Advice: “Red beans are an excellent source of plant-based protein, but coconut milk braised red beans contain sugar and coconut cream, so enjoy them in moderation to maintain nutritional balance.” – Nutritionist Lê Văn Nam.

Creative Variations of Coconut Milk Braised Red Beans

Important Notes When Making Coconut Milk Braised Red Beans

• Choose quality red beans: Prefer plump, undamaged, and non-moldy beans.
• Adjust sweetness: Customize the amount of sugar to suit your taste.
• Proper storage: The dish can be refrigerated for up to 2-3 days.

Expert Comment: “Coconut milk braised red beans are not only a delicious dish but also a symbol of Vietnamese culinary culture. Each region has its own preparation method, contributing to the richness of the national cuisine.” – Culinary Expert Trần Thu Hà.

Conclusion

With the detailed recipe above, you can easily make coconut milk braised red beans at home, which are both delicious and nutritious. This dish is not only a great way to beat the summer heat but also a bridge that brings families together during meals. Give it a try and share this dish with your loved ones!

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

1. How can I make red beans soften faster?

   • Soak red beans in warm water for 4-6 hours or overnight. Add a pinch of salt while boiling.

2. Can I use canned coconut water instead of fresh?

   • Yes, but the flavor won’t be as rich.

3. How can I prevent coconut milk braised red beans from being too sweet?

   • Adjust the amount of sugar according to your taste.

4. How long can I store coconut milk braised red beans?

   • Refrigerate for up to 2-3 days.

5. What other ingredients can I add to coconut milk braised red beans?

   • Tapioca pearls, grass jelly, black sticky rice, or vanilla ice cream.

6. Are coconut milk braised red beans good for health?

   • Yes, red beans are rich in fiber and minerals, but enjoy them in moderation due to the sugar and coconut cream content.