One of the delicious treats you shouldn't miss on a scorching summer day is Vietnamese coconut jelly. With its exotic flavors and refreshing qualities, this delectable jelly not only offers a sweet escape from the heat but is also known as a top-list Vietnamese dessert. Learn more about the best way to make it with this guide!
1. Calories and health benefits of Vietnamese coconut jelly
Vietnamese coconut dessert jelly is among the oldest of the jelly dishes in Hanoi. Savoring coconut jelly provides a pleasing sweetness with an underpinning coconut fragrance.
Vietnamese coconut jelly is more than just an exotic dessert – it’s healthy! The dessert, made from a coconut water and jelly powder (gelatin) mixture, is light and mild in taste. Thus, it is an ideal diet dessert for the weight-watcher since Vietnamese coconut jelly pudding calories are approximately 92 per 100 grams.
Aside from being low in calories, Vietnamese coconut jelly offers a lot of other health advantages. It is a good source of dietary fiber that assists in improving the digestive system, lowers cholesterol levels, and prevents constipation. This is advantageous to people who want to have a well-functioning digestive system, especially with improved digestion.
Next to its nutritional value, Vietnamese coconut jelly is cooling and can refresh and rehydrate the tired body after a hard day’s work. The light, fresh-tasting jelly may also help combat fatigue.
However, it’s worth mentioning that consuming excessive Vietnamese coconut jelly pudding or eating it before bed may trigger bloating and indigestion. If consumed excessively, the high fiber content in this dessert can lead to stomach upset.
For this reason, one should always read the labels of Vietnamese coconut jelly products before buying and consuming them to avoid any possible digestive problems. Go for brands with natural ingredients and fewer added substances. This should also be taken in small quantities, just like other desserts, and should never act as a substitute for a complete meal.
2. How to make Vietnamese coconut jelly pudding?
After learning about the health advantages of Vietnamese coconut jelly pudding and sampling its delicious tastes, it is time for you to make your own delicious homemade Vietnamese coconut jelly pudding with this recipe.
2.1. Ingredients
- 3 to 5 fresh coconuts (don't choose the coconut that is too old or too young)
- Jelly powder (can be bought at Vietnamese grocery stores, markets, and supermarkets)
- Sugar
2.2. Instructions
- Step 1: Get your coconut water and coconut flesh
- Start by piercing ripe coconuts and getting some fresh coconut water. Avoid using spoiled ingredients like overly aged coconuts, which could make your jelly turn sour.
- Get the coconut flesh and store it elsewhere for later use.
- Keep the coconut shells to serve the jelly in them later.
- Step 2: Prepare the jelly mixture
- Mix sugar and the jelly powder in a pot as indicated in the product instructions.
- Pour the coconut water in and stir well.
- On medium heat, stir the mixture continuously. Once it comes to a boil, turn off the heat immediately.
- Pour the mixture into the coconut shells, leaving a little room for the coconut milk jelly layer.
- Step 3: Prepare the coconut milk mixture
- Blend the coconut flesh with a bit of water, then pass it through a sieve to remove the pulp.
- Follow the process in step 2, using the just-prepared coconut milk instead of coconut water for the jelly mixture.
- Mix all the ingredients and keep stirring until the liquid starts boiling. Switch off the heat.
- Finally, pour the coconut milk jelly mixture over the coconut water jelly mixture into the shells.
- Step 4: Let it set and serve
- Leave your jelly to cool down and store it in your fridge for about two hours or more.
- After it is firm, apply a sharp knife around the inside edges to remove the coconut jelly. You can also serve it as is with extra decorations, such as dried coconut or fresh coconut shreds and a mini umbrella, for an extra tropical vibe.
- Serve chilled, and enjoy!
Coconut jelly is usually served in either coconut shells or transparent cups, with both layers visible. Moreover, the delightful taste can be further enhanced by incorporating the jelly into sweet soup, pairing it with caramel, or utilizing toppings such as tapioca pearls, basil seeds, and coconut milk.
You can now savor the heavenly coconut jelly. Creamy coconut milk forms the top layer of the jelly, which is ivory-white and has the rich, pleasant fragrance of coconut. The deeper layer is made of clean and fresh coconut water. It’s refreshing and delicious to eat, as it has a light and distinctive taste.
3. Must-try variations of Vietnamese coconut jelly pudding
Coconut jellies from Vietnam are widely available as desserts, and they come in many irresistible varieties. Try these enticing versions of Vietnamese coconut jelly, and you will undoubtedly find yourself craving more.
3.1. Vietnamese pandan coconut jelly
Among the popular Vietnamese desserts, pandan coconut jelly is a locals’ favorite, featuring aromatic pandan leaves that impart a vibrant green color and inviting fragrance to the jelly, harmonizing perfectly with the coconut's natural sweetness.
Pandan coconut jelly can be elevated by creating layered alternations of the coconut milk mixture and pandan jelly mixture, which produces a stunning bicolor appearance that is sure to impress.
3.2. Vietnamese coffee coconut jelly
Vietnamese coffee is known for its strong and bitter flavor, making it a perfect addition that balances the sweetness of coconut jelly. This variation of Vietnamese coconut jelly pudding combines the deep flavors of coffee with the light taste of coconut, creating a unique and indulgent treat.
The recipe involves incorporating Vietnamese coffee into the jelly mixture to create a bold and contrasting layer. You can also experiment with adding pandan coconut jelly layers or other flavors to create your own twist on this delectable dessert. It’s definitely a must-try on your next Vietnam travel journey.
In addition to savoring the renowned Vietnamese coconut jelly pudding, be sure to explore Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Phu Quoc, Nha Trang, Hoi An, and Ha Long to fully immerse yourself in the richness of Vietnam's culinary culture. Each place promises a deep dive into Vietnam's diverse culinary tapestry, from the bustling street food scenes to the eclectic flavors found in local eateries.
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On a hot summer day, you can try handcrafting your own Vietnamese coconut jelly pudding in your kitchen with this guide, making the most of a delightful dessert that embodies the flavors and traditions of Vietnam. Share it with your loved ones and create memorable moments that revolve around this exquisite treat. Let's get cooking!
