When the summer heat kicks in, there’s nothing quite like a refreshing bowl of sâm bo luong to cool us down. This traditional Vietnamese sweet soup, often enjoyed as a dessert or snack, is a delightful blend of healthy and flavorful ingredients. Packed with dried fruits, lotus seeds, and a touch of rock sugar, it’s the perfect balance of sweetness and nourishment.

What makes sâm bo luong so special is its history as a beloved herbal drink, thought to help restore energy and promote wellness. Each spoonful is not just a treat for our taste buds but also a comforting reminder of the simple joys of traditional recipes. Whether we’re new to Vietnamese cuisine or grew up with it, sâm bo luong invites us to savor a little bit of culture with every bite.

Table of Contents

What Is Sâm Bo Luong?

Sâm bo luong is a traditional Vietnamese sweet soup with a delightful mix of textures and flavors, making it a cherished treat, especially in the summer. Known for its translucent, chilled broth and an assortment of nourishing ingredients, this dessert beautifully balances sweetness with natural herbal undertones. Its name translates to “three treasures for refreshing,” referring to the belief in its ability to rejuvenate and energize.

The soup typically contains a medley of dried fruits, seeds, and herbs such as longan, jujube, lotus seeds, barley, and pearl tapioca. These ingredients not only contribute to its refreshing taste but are also believed to carry health benefits, like improving digestion and calming the body. The lightly sweetened broth, often crafted with rock sugar, ties everything together while allowing each ingredient’s unique flavor to shine through. Historically, sâm bo luong was cherished not only as a sweet treat but also as a cooling tonic to ward off the summer heat. It remains a comforting bridge between culinary indulgence and traditional wellness.

Ingredients

Sâm bổ lượng combines a variety of nourishing and flavorful components, making it both a treat for the taste buds and a source of traditional herbal benefits. Below is a breakdown of the essential ingredients and optional add-ins to customize your dessert.

Essential Ingredients

Dried Longan (1 cup): Soak in hot water for 20 minutes to rehydrate, bringing out its natural sweetness.
Dried Red Dates, or Jujubes (10–12 pieces): Wash thoroughly and simmer until soft for a mild, fruity flavor.
Pearl Barley (1/2 cup): Cook in water until tender (about 20–30 minutes). Drain and rinse before use.
Dried Goji Berries (2 tablespoons): Rinse quickly to clean and soften them. These add a slightly tart, fruity kick.
Dried Seaweed Strips (1/2 cup): Rinse thoroughly to remove any sliminess, then soak for 15–20 minutes. Drain before adding to the soup.
Rock Sugar (1/3 cup): Adjust the sweetness to taste while dissolving in hot water.

Optional Add-ins for Variations

Lotus Seeds (1/3 cup): Add a nutty texture. Boil until soft, or use pre-cooked ones.
Mung Beans (1/4 cup): For a subtle earthiness, cook until soft and add to the broth.
Pandan Leaves (2–3 leaves): Tie them in a knot and simmer with the broth to infuse a floral aroma.
Pearl Tapioca (2 tablespoons): Boil until translucent for a chewy texture.
Asian Pear or Apple Slices (1/2 cup): Fresh fruit slices balance the sweetness and add a refreshing crunch.

Experiment with these mix-ins to craft sâm bổ lượng to your perfect liking.

Tools And Equipment

To prepare sâm bổ lượng, having the right tools and equipment is crucial for creating this delicious and refreshing dessert with ease. Here’s what we need:

1. Pot

We recommend using a medium to large-sized pot, ideally between 5-quart and 10-quart capacity. This ensures that all the ingredients can simmer together without the risk of overflowing.

2. Utensils

A fine-mesh sieve or strainer is essential for rinsing and draining dried ingredients, such as pearl barley and lotus seeds.
Cutting tools, including a sharp knife, are needed for slicing seaweed into strips and chopping white fungus into small pieces.

3. Bowls

Prepare multiple bowls to soak and hydrate dried ingredients like longan, jujubes, seaweed, and goji berries. These soaked ingredients are key to achieving the right textures and flavors in the soup.

4. Measuring Tools

Use measuring cups and spoons to ensure the ingredients and water are added in precise amounts. This makes the process more consistent and helps balance the sweetness and herbal notes in the soup.

5. Cooling and Storage

Lastly, a refrigerator is necessary to chill the sâm bổ lượng. This dessert is best served cold and can be stored in the fridge for up to a week, allowing us to prepare it in advance or enjoy leftovers.

Directions

Let’s prepare our refreshing sâm bổ lượng step-by-step. Follow these instructions to create this delightful and nourishing dessert soup.

Prep

Soak dried ingredients:

Place lotus seeds and pearl barley in separate bowls, covering them with water. Soak both overnight or at least 8 hours.
In another bowl, soak the dried seaweed (kelp), dried jujubes, dried goji berries, and dried longan for about 1 hour to rehydrate them.

Rinse thoroughly: Drain the soaked ingredients and rinse them under running water to remove excess debris and impurities.

If using snow fungus, soak it in warm water for 15-20 minutes until it softens, then trim off the harder ends and cut it into smaller pieces.
For pandan leaves, rinse them and tie them into a bundle for easy removal after cooking.

Cook

Now that our ingredients are prepped and ready, it’s time to bring everything together to create the delicious and refreshing sâm bổ lượng. Let’s start by preparing the fragrant broth before combining the flavorful ingredients.

Preparing The Broth

In a medium to large pot, bring 8 cups of water to a boil.
Add the pandan leaves (if using) tied into a bundle to the boiling water. Let them simmer for about 10 minutes to release their aroma, filling the kitchen with a warm, herbal scent.
Remove the pandan leaves and discard them.
Stir in the rock sugar. Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less sugar based on your personal preference. Allow the sugar to completely dissolve before proceeding.

Cooking The Sweet Soup

Reduce the heat to medium and add the pearl barley. Simmer for 20-25 minutes until the barley softens but still holds its texture.
Next, add the lotus seeds (if using). Let them cook for about 15 minutes or until tender.
Gently add the rehydrated snow fungus, cooking for another 10 minutes. Its translucent, jelly-like texture will enhance the soup.
Add the rehydrated dried longan (along with its soaking liquid for added sweetness), red dates, goji berries, and seaweed strips. Simmer everything together for 10-15 minutes, letting the flavors meld beautifully.
Give the soup one final stir and taste. Adjust the sweetness if needed.
Remove the soup from heat and let it cool completely. Transfer it to a container and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to chill.

Once chilled, the sâm bổ lượng is ready to be served. The cooling broth paired with the chewy, tender ingredients creates a perfect harmony of textures and flavors.

Assemble

Now that our ingredients are prepped and the broth is cooled, it’s time to bring everything together into a delightful and refreshing sâm bổ lượng. Follow these steps to combine the components and perfect the final presentation.

Combining Ingredients

In a large serving bowl or individual bowls, start by layering the rehydrated ingredients. Add the pearl barley first for a sturdy base, followed by the softened lotus seeds, snow fungus, and seaweed strips.
Place the plump, rehydrated dried longans, red dates, and goji berries on top of the other ingredients. This ensures every bite is infused with their sweetness.
If you’ve prepared optional add-ins like mung beans or pearl tapioca, mix them evenly into the layers at this stage for additional texture and flavor.
Pair the ingredients with the broth. Ladle the cooled pandan-infused sweet broth gently into the bowls, ensuring it covers the ingredients evenly.

Final Touches

For added freshness, consider garnishing with thinly sliced fresh fruit such as apple or water chestnut. This complements the chewy texture of the soup with a crisp contrast.
Chill the assembled soup for another 10–15 minutes in the refrigerator for an extra refreshing experience, especially during hot summer days.
Serve sâm bổ lượng with a spoon and tall glasses or dessert bowls. Offer ice cubes on the side for those who prefer a colder treat.

Serving Suggestions

Sâm bổ lượng is a versatile dessert that caters to various preferences. Whether we’re enjoying it warm or cold, the serving process adds a delightful touch to the final experience.

Choosing the Right Temperature

If we’re serving this dessert during the summer, chilling it beforehand is ideal. The soup should be refrigerated for at least two hours to achieve a satisfying cold temperature. On hot days, we can even add a few ice cubes to each serving bowl or glass for an extra-refreshing treat. For those cooler months, sâm bổ lượng can be served warm by gently reheating the broth on low heat. This version feels like a comforting and soothing dessert, perfect for chilly evenings.

Presentation Tips

For an appealing presentation, layering the ingredients in a tall glass or clear bowl works beautifully. Start with pearl barley and lotus seeds as the base layer, then add snow fungus and seaweed strips. Next, place dried longans, red dates, and goji berries on top, ensuring an even distribution of colors and textures. Finally, pour the cooled or warmed broth gently over the layers, making sure all ingredients are submerged.

To elevate the visual appeal, garnish the top with thinly sliced fresh fruit like kiwi or strawberries. If preferred, we can let guests stir the dessert themselves to combine the layers, creating a more interactive and customizable dining experience.

Creative Variations

We can personalize each serving by offering optional toppings and add-ins on the side. Fresh coconut strips, mung beans, or pearl tapioca can be excellent additions for those who want extra variety. For added sweetness, a drizzle of honey or a spoonful of condensed milk can be served alongside.

Make-Ahead Tips And Storage

Make-Ahead Tips

Soaking Ingredients: Many of the dried ingredients, like lotus seeds, pearl barley, seaweed, jujubes, goji berries, and longan, require soaking to rehydrate. For the best results, we recommend soaking them overnight in cool water. If you’re pressed for time, a quicker option is soaking them in hot water for 30 minutes to an hour. This step not only softens the ingredients but also ensures they cook evenly later.
Precooking Staples: To save time during the main cooking process, precook staples like pearl barley and lotus seeds ahead of time. Boil the pearl barley for approximately 30 minutes and the lotus seeds for about 10-15 minutes, both separately, until tender. Once precooked, these ingredients can be stored in an airtight container and refrigerated for up to two days.

Storage Instructions

Chilling for Optimal Taste: Sâm bổ lượng is traditionally served chilled, making it ideal for storing in the refrigerator. After cooking, allow the soup to cool to room temperature before transferring it into a covered container. Properly stored, it will keep for up to a week in the refrigerator while maintaining its flavor and texture.
Freezing Option: For longer storage, the soup can also be frozen. Divide it into smaller portions for easy thawing and defrost in the refrigerator overnight when ready to enjoy. However, freezing may alter the texture of certain ingredients like seaweed or snow fungus, so keep this in mind when opting for this approach.
Serving Leftovers: When serving leftovers, give the soup a gentle stir to redistribute the ingredients evenly. If it has thickened slightly during storage, add a splash of cool water to loosen it to your preferred consistency. This ensures every bowl remains refreshingly delicious.

Conclusion

Sâm bổ lượng isn’t just a dessert; it’s a beautiful blend of tradition, flavor, and nourishment. Its versatility and customizable nature make it a treat that anyone can enjoy, whether you’re looking to cool off in the summer or savor something warm in cooler months.

By taking the time to prepare this delightful sweet soup, we’re not only indulging in a refreshing dish but also connecting with a piece of Vietnamese culture. Let’s embrace the joy of experimenting with ingredients and sharing this comforting recipe with loved ones.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is sâm bổ lượng?

Sâm bổ lượng is a traditional Vietnamese sweet soup made with a mixture of dried fruits, lotus seeds, and other nourishing ingredients. It has a mildly sweet, refreshing broth and is often served chilled, making it a popular dessert or snack during the summer.

What are the main ingredients in sâm bổ lượng?

The main ingredients include dried longan, jujubes (red dates), pearl barley, lotus seeds, goji berries, seaweed strips, snow fungus, and rock sugar. Optional add-ins like mung beans, pearl tapioca, and fresh fruit slices can enhance flavor and texture.

How do you prepare sâm bổ lượng?

Preparation involves soaking dried ingredients, simmering them in a rock sugar broth infused with pandan leaves, and then cooling the soup. The cooked ingredients are layered in a bowl, and the chilled broth is poured over for a refreshing finish.

Is sâm bổ lượng healthy?

Yes, sâm bổ lượng is considered a healthy dessert. Its ingredients, like lotus seeds, goji berries, and seaweed, are rich in nutrients and believed to aid digestion, restore energy, and provide a cooling effect for the body.

Can sâm bổ lượng be made in advance?

Absolutely. Sâm bổ lượng can be prepared ahead of time. It can stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to a week if stored in a covered container. This makes it a convenient snack or dessert to enjoy throughout the week.

Can sâm bổ lượng be served warm?

Yes, while sâm bổ lượng is traditionally served chilled, it can also be enjoyed warm, especially during cooler months. The taste and benefits remain the same, offering a versatile option for any season.

What tools are needed to make sâm bổ lượng?

You’ll need a medium to large pot for simmering, a mesh sieve for rinsing, cutting tools for preparing ingredients, and measuring utensils for precision. A refrigerator is essential for chilling the soup before serving.

How long does it take to prepare sâm bổ lượng?

Preparation time may vary, but soaking dried ingredients like lotus seeds and pearl barley overnight is recommended. Once the ingredients are soaked, the soup itself can be cooked and assembled in about an hour or less.

Can I customize the ingredients?

Yes, sâm bổ lượng is very customizable! You can add or substitute ingredients like coconut strips, fresh fruit, or mung beans to suit your tastes. This dessert is flexible and can be tailored to your preferences.

How do I store leftover sâm bổ lượng?

Leftovers should be cooled to room temperature, stored in a covered container, and kept in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, the soup can be frozen, but some ingredients may lose their texture upon thawing.

What makes sâm bổ lượng a summer favorite?

Its lightly sweet, chilled broth and nutrient-packed ingredients make sâm bổ lượng a perfect way to stay hydrated and cool during hot summer days while enjoying a delicious and healthy treat.

About The Author

Alice Nako

With over a decade of expertise in the restaurant industry, I, Alice Nako, proudly serve as the Founder of Like Like Drive Inn. At Like Like Drive Inn, we craft and curate delectable culinary experiences that delight the taste buds and warm the hearts of our patrons. Through a deep passion for food and dedication to culinary excellence, I aim to share my wealth of experience in the art of recipes to inspire and elevate the dining experiences of others. I am committed to sharing my culinary knowledge to enrich the gastronomic journeys of all who indulge in the creations of Like Like Drive Inn. Let’s embark on a flavorful voyage together!

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