Acehnese Coconut Candy

Ingredients

While the original Bukayo recipe from Filipino cuisine uses white sugar, the Acehnese Coconut Candy recipe incorporates palm sugar, which is commonly used in Acehnese cuisine. Additionally, the Acehnese version includes a blend of aromatic spices that give the candy a distinct flavor profile unique to Acehnese cuisine. We alse have the original recipe for Bukayo, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (200g) freshly grated coconut 2 cups (200g) freshly grated coconut
• 1 cup (200g) palm sugar, grated 1 cup (200g) palm sugar, grated
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt Pinch of salt

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 80 kcal / 335 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 4g, 3g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 10g, 8g
• Protein: 1g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.02g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large non-stick pan, combine the grated coconut, palm sugar, ground cinnamon, ground cardamom, ground cloves, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.
2. 2.
   Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring continuously, until the palm sugar has melted and the mixture is well combined.
3. 3.
   Reduce the heat to low and continue cooking, stirring frequently, for about 15-20 minutes or until the mixture thickens and starts to come away from the sides of the pan.
4. 4.
   Remove the pan from heat and let the mixture cool slightly.
5. 5.
   Grease your hands with a little oil or butter, then shape the warm mixture into small bite-sized candies.
6. 6.
   Place the candies on a parchment-lined tray and let them cool completely before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Palm sugar — Make sure to grate the palm sugar before adding it to the recipe to ensure it melts evenly and blends well with the other ingredients.

Tips & Tricks

• If you prefer a stronger spice flavor, you can adjust the amount of cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves according to your taste.
• For an extra touch of indulgence, you can roll the shaped candies in desiccated coconut before letting them cool.

Serving advice

Serve the Acehnese Coconut Candy as a delightful snack or a sweet ending to an Acehnese meal. It pairs well with a cup of hot tea or coffee.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Acehnese Coconut Candy on a serving platter or in a decorative box lined with banana leaves for an authentic touch. Sprinkle some desiccated coconut on top for an added visual appeal.