As temperatures rise in summer, few snacks can match the gentle coolness and nostalgic flavor of tau hu com, a traditional dessert that brings together the best of soy and Vietnamese green rice flakes.
The dish features a delicate combination of silky tofu (tàu hủ) and cốm, or Vietnamese green rice flakes, known for their soft, chewy texture and naturally sweet aroma. Often enjoyed chilled, tau hu com offers a refreshing escape from the summer heat while preserving the essence of Vietnamese culinary heritage.
The dish starts with homemade soy milk, created by blending soaked soybeans with water and straining out the solids. The milk is then gently simmered with pandan leaves, which infuse it with a light aroma. Once cooked, it is thickened with a touch of cornstarch or rice flour, resulting in a smooth, custard-like texture.
Cốm takes center stage in the dish, adding a unique texture and subtle aroma. Whether used fresh or dried, Vietnamese green rice flakes add a pleasant chewiness and a natural green hue that enhances the dish’s visual and culinary appeal.
For those who enjoy richer flavors, tau hu com is best served with a generous drizzle of coconut milk, which adds creaminess and enhances the dish’s natural sweetness, especially when topped with shredded young coconut and toasted almonds.
Each spoonful offers a delightful contrast: the soft tofu, the chewy cốm, the crisp toppings—all melting together in a mild and sweet embrace.
