Luk chup

Luk chup (Thai: ลูกชุบ) is a type of Thai dessert originating from the Ayutthaya period. It is made primarily of mung beans which are mashed, formed into various fruit and vegetable shapes, painted with food coloring, and then coated with a thin layer of gelatin-based glaze, giving it a glossy appearance.

The process of making luk chup is labor-intensive, requiring careful shaping and painting to mimic the appearance of real fruits and vegetables. Common shapes include mangoes, oranges, chillies, and miniature versions of other popular Thai fruits and vegetables.

Luk chup is considered a traditional Thai sweet and is often enjoyed as a decorative treat or given as a gift. The mung bean paste provides a subtly sweet flavor, while the glaze adds a textural contrast and enhances the visual appeal. Due to the intricate designs and vibrant colors, luk chup is valued for its aesthetic qualities as well as its taste.