Discover the delightful world of Cha Bong Chay, or Vegetarian Cotton Tea – a surprisingly simple and refreshing beverage perfect for any time of day. This unique tea, featuring a delicate blend of readily available ingredients, offers a soothing and subtly sweet flavour profile that's both calming and invigorating. Forget complicated brewing processes; Cha Bong Chay is surprisingly easy to prepare, making it an ideal drink for both seasoned tea enthusiasts and beginners alike. Its light texture and subtle sweetness make it a fantastic alternative to sugary drinks, offering a healthier and equally satisfying hydration option.
Unlike traditional teas, Cha Bong Chay doesn't rely on tea leaves. Instead, it features a unique combination of ingredients that create a truly unique flavour experience. Ready to experience the magic of this simple yet elegant drink? Let's delve into the easy step-by-step process that will have you enjoying a cup of refreshing Vegetarian Cotton Tea in minutes.
Tools Needed
- Knife
- Basin
- Filter bag or thin cloth
- Pan
- Colander
- Oven or drying rack
Ingredients
- Cassava: 1 kg
- Salt: 2 teaspoons
- Shallots: 2-3
- Cooking oil: a little bit
- Bread: 100g
- Sugar: 1 teaspoon
- Mushroom seasoning: 2 teaspoons
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Cassava and Shallot
- Peel, wash, and thinly slice the cassava into strands. Don't peel it too thinly.
- Place the cassava strands in a basin, add salt, and let it sit for 10-15 minutes to release water. Squeeze out excess water using a filter bag or cloth.
- Slice the shallots.
- Heat a pan with a little oil and sauté the shallots until fragrant. Remove and set aside.
Step 2. Fry the Cassava and Prepare the Breadcrumbs
- Fry the cassava in the shallot-infused oil over medium heat until slightly golden. Don't overcook.
- Drain the fried cassava in a colander to remove excess oil.
- Dry the bread in the oven or air dry it until crispy. Crush the outer parts of the bread, leaving the inner parts slightly chewy.
Step 3. Combine and Cook the Mixture
- Combine the fried cassava, crushed bread, fried shallots, sugar, mushroom seasoning, and salt in a bowl. Mix well.
- Stir-fry the mixture over low heat for 5-6 minutes until dry to remove excess oil.
Step 4. Store the Vegetarian Cotton Tea
- Store the cooled vegetarian cotton tea in an airtight jar.
Read more: Vietnamese Sweet & Sour Fish Soup: A Delicious Comfort Food Recipe
Tips
- If you prefer crispy cassava, fry it until golden brown. For softer cassava, remove it as soon as it changes color.
- Adding bread helps absorb excess oil and prolongs shelf life.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. What exactly is Vegetarian Cotton Tea (Cha Bong Chay)?
It's a refreshing, subtly sweet drink made from readily available ingredients like tapioca pearls, coconut milk, and sugar, creating a light and flavorful beverage. It's called 'cotton' tea due to its soft, smooth texture.
2. Can I adjust the sweetness of the Cha Bong Chay?
Absolutely! The amount of sugar is easily adjustable to your preference. Start with less and add more to taste.
3. Are there any variations or additions I can make to the recipe?
Yes! Experiment with different types of milk (like almond or soy), add fruit pieces (like mango or lychee), or even a splash of your favorite flavored syrup for extra flavor.
Enjoy your homemade Cha Bong Chay! This simple recipe is a perfect addition to your repertoire of refreshing drinks, offering a delightful and healthy alternative to sugary beverages. So grab your ingredients and start brewing this unique and satisfying tea today!