Mè Xửng

Fact: During the final era of the Nguyen family in Vietnam, mè xửng was used as a gift by people in Hue.

Mè Xửng: Basic Information

Pronunciation

/meh soong/

Alternative Name(s)

Kẹo mè xửng

Dish Type

Snacks

Course

Non-course dish

Mealtime

Anytime

Mè Xửng: Origin and Region

Origin

Vietnam

Continent’s Region

Southeast Asia

Country’s Region

Nationwide Origin

Associated Region

Thua Thien Hue

Popular Mè Xửng Variations

Mè Xửng Giòn

Features a crispier, crunchier texture
Has less sugar than the chewy version

Mè Xửng Gương

Known for its glossy, shiny appearance

Mè Xửng Đen

Made with black sesame seeds
Offering a distinct flavor and darker color

Mè xửng, commonly known as kẹo mè xửng, is a traditional Vietnamese sesame candy that originates from Hue City in Central Vietnam. This candy is a simple combination of peanuts and sesame seeds wrapped around a candy mix of maltose with tapioca starch.

Typically, this candy is cut into square pieces and wrapped in plastic wrappers. Thanks to the maltose, the candy has a certain flexibility, being able to return to its original shape after bending. Alternatively, the crunchy version, known as mè xửng giòn, has less sugar content and is covered with a layer of grilled rice crackers.

As a specialty of Hue, tourists often purchase mè xửng as a gift. In Hue, the population even has a tradition of pairing mè xửng with tea while reading books at the same time.

Explore some of the popular versions of mè xửng before finding out the process of creating this candy. Then, don’t miss exploring the pros and cons of consuming mè xửng, along with common inquiries related to it. Also, you should explore some more dishes that are similar to mè xửng.

Mè Xửng Images

Rectangular cuts of mè xửng with a golden brown color.

Individual pieces of mè xửng served in plastic wrappers.

Kẹo mè xửng accompanied with tea.

Kẹo mè xửng coated with sesame seeds.

Pieces of kẹo mè xửng packed in plastic bags.

What Are the Variants of Mè Xửng?

Mè xửng offers various versions simply by adjusting the ingredient composition. Here are 3 common variations of this sweet treat:

Mè Xửng Giòn

Features a crispier, crunchier texture
Has less sugar than the chewy version

Mè Xửng Gương

Known for its glossy, shiny appearance

Mè Xửng Đen

Made with black sesame seeds
Offering a distinct flavor and darker color

Then, explore the process of bringing mè xửng to life by Vietnamese locals using interesting cooking procedures.

How Mè Xửng Is Made?

Mè xửng is made differently depending on the elements that contribute to this sweet candy. For that, let me introduce you to a general process of making mè xửng:

Step 1: Ingredient Preparation

Gather sesame seeds, peanuts, maltose, tapioca starch, and any additional flavorings or ingredients specific to the recipe.

Step 2: Roasting Sesame Seeds and Peanuts

Roast the sesame seeds and peanuts separately until they are golden brown. This enhances their flavor and crunchiness.

Step 3: Making the Candy Base

Cook maltose with a little water and tapioca starch over medium heat. Stir continuously until the mixture becomes thick and transparent.

Step 4: Combining Ingredients

Once the candy base is ready, mix in the roasted sesame seeds and peanuts. Ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the candy mixture.

Step 5: Shaping the Candy

Pour the hot mixture onto a flat, greased surface or into a mold. Flatten it to the desired thickness.

Step 6: Cutting and Wrapping

Once slightly cooled and solidified, cut the candy into square or rectangular pieces.

Step 7: Cooling and Setting

Allow the candies to cool completely at room temperature. This step is crucial for the candy to set and develop the right texture. Wrap each piece in plastic wrap to preserve freshness and prevent sticking.

Also, make sure you don’t miss the benefits and drawbacks that this candy offers, especially when you’re looking to get mè xửng for your next trip to Vietnam.

Pros and Cons of Eating Mè Xửng

When you’re looking to consume mè xửng, make sure to consider these features closely:

Next, find out what are some of the common concerns that people often have about mè xửng.

Mè Xửng FAQs

Kẹo Gương

Kẹo gương is a Vietnamese transparent candy, traditionally flavored with ginger and made from malt.

Cu Đơ

Cu đơ is a Vietnamese candy bar combining peanuts, sesame seeds, and molasses sandwiched between rice crackers.

Chè Lam

Chè lam is a Vietnamese sweet treat made from sticky rice, ginger, and molasses or sugar.