Limonnik-inspired Buko Pandan Delight

Ingredients

In the original Russian Limonnik recipe, the main ingredient is the Limonnik fruit, which is not commonly found in Filipino cuisine. To adapt the dish to Filipino cuisine, we replaced the Limonnik fruit with pandan flavoring, a popular ingredient in Filipino desserts. Additionally, we incorporated buko (young coconut) to enhance the tropical flavors and creaminess of the dish, which is not typically found in the original Limonnik recipe. We alse have the original recipe for Limonnik, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (470ml) buko (young coconut) strips 2 cups (470ml) buko (young coconut) strips
• 1 pack (25g) unflavored gelatin 1 pack (25g) unflavored gelatin
• 1 cup (240ml) pandan juice 1 cup (240ml) pandan juice
• 1 cup (240ml) water 1 cup (240ml) water
• 1 cup (200g) sugar 1 cup (200g) sugar
• 1 teaspoon Limonnik zest 1 teaspoon Limonnik zest
• 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
• 1/2 cup (120ml) condensed milk 1/2 cup (120ml) condensed milk
• 1/2 cup (120ml) evaporated milk 1/2 cup (120ml) evaporated milk
• Green food coloring (optional) Green food coloring (optional)
• Ice cubes (for serving) Ice cubes (for serving)

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 15g, 10g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 25g, 20g
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a saucepan, combine the pandan juice, water, and sugar. Bring to a boil until the sugar is dissolved.
2. 2.
   In a separate bowl, dissolve the unflavored gelatin in 1/2 cup (120ml) of cold water. Let it sit for a few minutes.
3. 3.
   Add the gelatin mixture to the pandan juice mixture. Stir until well combined.
4. 4.
   Remove from heat and add the Limonnik zest. Stir to incorporate the citrusy flavor.
5. 5.
   Pour the mixture into a rectangular mold and let it cool to room temperature. Refrigerate until set, about 2 hours.
6. 6.
   Once the pandan jelly is set, cut it into small cubes.
7. 7.
   In a mixing bowl, combine the buko strips, pandan jelly cubes, heavy cream, condensed milk, and evaporated milk. Mix well.
8. 8.
   If desired, add a few drops of green food coloring to enhance the vibrant green color.
9. 9.
   Transfer the mixture to a serving dish and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
10. 10.
    Serve chilled with ice cubes on top for added refreshment.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Pandan juice — If fresh pandan leaves are not available, you can use pandan extract or pandan essence as a substitute. Adjust the quantity according to the desired level of pandan flavor.
• Limonnik zest — If Limonnik is not available, you can substitute it with lemon or lime zest for a similar citrusy flavor.

Tips & Tricks

• For a creamier texture, you can adjust the ratio of heavy cream to condensed milk and evaporated milk according to your preference.
• If you prefer a stronger citrus flavor, you can add more Limonnik zest to the mixture.
• Serve the Buko Pandan Delight in individual dessert glasses for an elegant presentation.
• Garnish with additional buko strips and pandan leaves for a visually appealing touch.
• This dessert is best enjoyed chilled, so make sure to refrigerate it for at least an hour before serving.

Serving advice

Serve the Limonnik-inspired Buko Pandan Delight chilled, either as a refreshing dessert after a meal or as a delightful treat during special occasions. It pairs well with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation of the Limonnik-inspired Buko Pandan Delight, serve it in a glass trifle dish or individual dessert glasses. Layer the buko strips and pandan jelly cubes beautifully, creating an enticing visual appeal. Garnish with additional buko strips and a sprig of fresh pandan leaves for an elegant touch.