Chewy Banana Candy, or Mứt Chuối Dẻo, is a beloved Vietnamese treat, especially popular during the Tet holiday celebrations. Its vibrant orange hue and irresistibly chewy texture make it a festive favorite, adding a burst of sweetness to the traditional holiday festivities. This delectable candy boasts a simple yet surprisingly complex flavor profile, balancing the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with a hint of tang and spice. Homemade Mứt Chuối Dẻo offers a delightful alternative to store-bought versions, allowing you to control the ingredients and sweetness levels to your liking. The result is a truly unique and personalized confection.
Beyond its delicious taste, making Mứt Chuối Dẻo is a rewarding experience, connecting you to the rich culinary traditions of Vietnam. This recipe unlocks the secrets to achieving that perfect chewy texture and vibrant color. Ready to embark on this culinary adventure and create your own batch of this irresistible candy? Let's dive into the step-by-step process!
Tools Needed
- Blender
- Large bowl
- Pan
- Mold or baking sheet
- Wax paper or banana leaves
Ingredients
- Xim bananas (fresh): 2 kg
- Fresh ginger: 300g
- Shredded coconut: 600g
- Pineapple: 600g (2 medium sized)
- Sugar: 1 kg
- Roasted sesame peanuts: 300-400g
- Lemon juice: 2 tablespoons
- Salt: 2 teaspoons
- Concentrated coconut milk: 300-400ml
- White sesame seeds
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Ingredients
- Peel and blend the bananas. (Alternatively, squeeze them by hand if you don't have a blender).
- Prepare the ginger (cut into strips, optionally soak in warm water to reduce spiciness).
- Prepare the shredded coconut and pineapple (finely chop or blend).
Step 2. Cook the Banana Mixture
- Combine the blended bananas, ginger, coconut, pineapple, sugar (cut into smaller pieces if using granulated sugar), and salt in a large bowl. Mix well and let it sit for 30 minutes to 1 hour for the sugar to dissolve.
- Transfer the mixture to a pan and cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, for at least 2 hours. Reduce heat to low after it boils.
- Add lemon juice after 1 hour of simmering to prevent sourness.
- Add concentrated coconut milk and continue stirring on low heat for about 30 more minutes.
- Simmer until the mixture is thick and dark brown (about 2-2.5 hours total cooking time).
Step 3. Add Finishing Touches and Set
- Add roasted sesame peanuts and mix gently. Avoid overmixing to maintain elasticity.
- Pour the mixture into a mold or spread it thinly on a baking sheet lined with wax paper. Roll up if using a sheet.
Step 4. Cool and Serve
- Let it cool completely before cutting into slices.
Read more: Vietnamese Sponge Wedding Cake: A Step-by-Step Guide
Tips
- Using dried bananas will shorten the cooking time.
- If in a hurry, cook for 15 minutes after the sugar is dissolved.
- Don't overmix the peanuts; it can make the candy hard.
- Lightly oil the surface to prevent sticking when rolling.
- Sprinkle roasted white sesame seeds for added flavor and to prevent sticking.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 3500-4000
- Fat: 150-200g
- Carbs: 500-600g
- Protein: 20-30g
FAQs
1. Can I use other types of bananas besides ripe plantains?
While ripe plantains are traditional, you can experiment with very ripe, sweet bananas. However, the flavor and texture might differ slightly.
2. How long will the Chewy Banana Candy last?
Properly stored in an airtight container at room temperature, your Mứt Chuối Dẻo should last for about 2-3 weeks. Refrigeration will extend its shelf life.
3. What if my candy is too sticky or too hard?
Too sticky? You might need to cook it a bit longer. Too hard? You may have overcooked it; try reducing the cooking time next time.
Making Mứt Chuối Dẻo is a rewarding experience, bringing the warmth and sweetness of Tet traditions into your home. Enjoy the delicious results of your efforts, sharing this vibrant and chewy candy with friends and family. Happy Tet!