ลูกเดือยบวชชี
ลูกเดือยบวชชี — Creamy Thai Job’s Tears in Coconut Milk
Introduction to ลูกเดือยบวชชี
ลูกเดือยบวชชี is a classic Thai dessert of tender job’s tears (coix seeds) simmered in rich coconut milk and lightly sweetened. It’s comforting, naturally gluten-free, and perfect for beginners and home cooks who want an easy, authentic Thai sweet treat. This recipe yields about 4 servings and can be served warm or chilled.
Ingredients for ลูกเดือยบวชชี
- 1 cup dried job’s tears (ลูกเดือย), rinsed
- 6 cups water (for soaking and cooking; divided)
- 1–2 pandan leaves (optional), tied in a knot for fragrance
- 1/2 to 3/4 cup palm sugar or brown sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 1 1/2 cups thin coconut milk (unsweetened, for cooking)
- 1/2 cup thick coconut milk (unsweetened, for finishing)
- Optional toppings: roasted mung beans, toasted sesame seeds, or a drizzle of extra coconut cream
Instructions: How to make ลูกเดือยบวชชี
- Rinse and soak: Rinse the dried job’s tears under cold water. Soak them in enough water to cover for 6–8 hours or overnight. If short on time, use the quick method: rinse, then bring 6 cups of water and the job’s tears to a boil and simmer 5 minutes; remove from heat and let soak for 1 hour.
- Drain and start cooking: Drain the soaked job’s tears and transfer to a medium pot. Add 4 cups fresh water and the pandan leaf (if using).
- Simmer until tender: Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a gentle simmer. Cook, uncovered, for 30–45 minutes or until the job’s tears are soft and slightly translucent. Add more water (1/4–1/2 cup) if it absorbs too quickly; the texture should be plump but not mushy.
- Add thin coconut milk and sweeten: Once the job’s tears are tender, stir in the thin coconut milk and sugar. Simmer gently for 5–8 minutes until the sugar dissolves and the flavors blend. Taste and adjust sweetness.
- Finish with thick coconut milk: Reduce heat to low. Stir in the thick coconut milk and add the pinch of salt. Warm through for 1–2 minutes—do not boil after adding the thick coconut milk to prevent curdling.
- Serve: Remove the pandan leaf. Serve ลูกเดือยบวชชี warm or chill in the refrigerator and serve cold. Top with roasted mung beans or a drizzle of extra coconut cream if desired.
Cooking Tips for Perfect ลูกเดือยบวชชี
These practical tips help ensure a silky, flavorful result every time.
- Soaking: Soaking reduces cooking time and creates a creamier texture. If you forget to soak, use the quick boil-and-soak method described above.
- Texture check: Job’s tears should be tender with a pleasant bite. Overcooking makes them gummy.
- Prevent coconut curdling: Add thick coconut milk off the heat or on very low heat and avoid boiling after adding it.
- Sweeteners: Palm sugar gives an authentic flavor. Use brown sugar, cane sugar, or a sugar alternative to taste—adjust amounts as these vary in sweetness.
- Pandan aroma: Pandan leaves add a subtle floral note common to Thai desserts; vanilla works as an alternative if pandan is unavailable.
- Make-ahead and storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water or coconut milk to loosen the texture.
Nutritional Information for ลูกเดือยบวชชี (approximate per serving)
Values are estimates and will vary with ingredient brands and portion sizes.
- Calories: ~320 kcal
- Carbohydrates: ~45 g
- Fat: ~15 g (mostly from coconut milk; mostly saturated)
- Protein: ~6 g
- Fiber: ~3 g
- Sugar: ~12–18 g (depends on sweetener amount)
- Sodium: ~120 mg
Notes: Using light coconut milk or less sugar will lower calories and fat. Job’s tears add fiber and a unique chewy texture, while coconut milk provides richness and healthy fat.
Conclusion: Enjoy ลูกเดือยบวชชี at Home
ลูกเดือยบวชชี is an approachable, comforting Thai dessert that highlights simple ingredients and home-style cooking. With a little soaking and gentle simmering, you can create a creamy, fragrant dessert perfect for family meals, celebrations, or a soothing treat any time. Try this easy recipe, adjust flavors to your preference, and enjoy a taste of Thailand right from your kitchen.
