Aloe Vera Dessert (Che long tu)

Aloe vera is a natural vegetable source of vitamin B-12 and has the most minerals vital to help the growth and health for all parts of body organs. Asian people consume aloe vera more than any other group of people in the world because this plant grows very well in hot climates. Because the juice inside aloe is very bitter, it is not easy to add to daily diets. Scientists have already approved many products on the market to bring the tremendous health benefits of this plant into our life in the form of juices, pills, skin care, etc. Vietnamese people have enjoyed this dessert for many years. I want to share this aloe recipe if you happen to have this plant in your garden.
Ingredients:
1/2 cup dried mung beans (skin removed)
2 cups aloe vera, washed and drained well*
1/4 cup sugar
1/4 cup corn syrup
tbs vanilla

Directions:
Wash mung beans really well and drain.
In a small pot over medium heat, bring mung beans with 2 cups of water to a boil. Quickly pour into sieve to wash under cold water. This procedure will ensure the mung beans are very well cleaned. Put mung beans back into the pot 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil again. That means simmer for 15 minutes or until all the beans are cooked. Add aloe. Bring back to a boil again and simmer for 10 minutes. Add sugar, syrup, and vanilla. Cook further for the sugar to completely dissolve. Serve hot or cold.

* Use a sharp knife to cut the aloe vera leaf into a few pieces to handle easily. Peel off the skin and cut into 1/2 inch wide matchsticks. Wash aloe under cold running water. Add 1 tsp salt to remove all the slimy juice and only leave the jelly-like solid. Completely clean until not sticky when touched.