Mè Xửng Recipe

Mè Xửng, a traditional Vietnamese sweet treat, originates from Huế, the ancient capital of Vietnam, known for its rich cultural heritage and culinary arts. As part of the immense tapestry of Vietnamese dessert cuisine, Mè Xửng holds a special place due to its unique combination of flavors and textures. This confection is a delightful blend of sweetness, nuttiness, and a chewy yet slightly crunchy texture. It is traditionally served during festivals and celebrations, representing abundance and prosperity.

Ingredients

• Sugar
• Glutinous Rice Flour
• Sesame Seeds
• Peanuts (optional)
• Water

Preparation

1. Begin by measuring out all your ingredients to ensure the cooking process goes smoothly. This involves weighing the sugar, glutinous rice flour, and sesame seeds.

2. Prepare a baking tray by lining it with parchment paper, which will help in setting the Mè Xửng once it is cooked.

Cooking Process

1. Toast the sesame seeds in a dry pan over medium heat until they become aromatic and slightly golden. Be careful to stir continuously to prevent burning. Then, set aside.

2. If using, toast the peanuts similarly, and once cool, crush them lightly. Set aside with the sesame seeds.

3. In a saucepan, combine the sugar and water over low heat, stirring until the sugar is fully dissolved, forming a syrup.

4. Gradually, add the glutinous rice flour into the syrup, stirring continuously to avoid lumps until the mixture thickens and pulls away from the sides of the pan.

5. Stir in the toasted sesame seeds and peanuts until evenly distributed throughout the doughy syrup.

6. Pour the mixture into the prepared tray, smoothing the top to ensure an even surface. Allow it to cool to room temperature.

7. Once cool, cut the Mè Xửng into small squares or rectangles for serving.

For timing your cooking steps, here is a handy cooking timer to ensure nothing gets overcooked.

How to Enjoy Mè Xửng

Mè Xửng is best enjoyed with tea, a tradition that balances its sweetness with the bitterness of Vietnamese tea. Serve the pieces on a decorative platter during your gatherings or enjoy them as a delightful snack at any time of the day. The stored Mè Xửng can last for several weeks if kept in a cool, dry place in an airtight container, making it an excellent treat to prepare in advance for special occasions.

For those interested in experiencing this delicacy authentically, consider pairing Mè Xửng with lotus tea, another specialty from the Huế region, complementing the dish’s sweet, nutty flavor profile.