It first appeared in the Philippines and became incredibly popular in Japan in the 1990s. Today, it is found in a variety of different flavors and forms, and although it can be eaten plain, it is usually incorporated into refreshing fruit salads, yogurts, ice creams and drinks.
Coconut nata is most often sweetened as a candy or dessert, and can accompany a variety of foods, including pickles, drinks, ice cream, puddings and fruit cocktails.
How is made the nata of coconut?
Coconut nata (also marketed as “coconut jelly”) is a soft, translucent, gelatinous food produced by the fermentation of coconut water, which gels thanks to the production of healthy bacteria called Acetobacter xylinum.
Who created the Nata de Coco?
It was created by Teódula Kalaw Africa in 1973 in the Philippines in an attempt to preserve coconut water as a jelly. Its name comes from Spanish and means “coconut cream” or “coconut milk skin”.In the 19th century, the demand for coconut increased. Coconut products became a major export product of the Philippines (alternative to the traditional Filipino nata de piña which is made from pineapple).
What are the benefits of the nata de coco?
Coconut nata is mainly made from coconut water, so it has a modest nutritional profile. One cup of Nata de Coco (118 grams) contains 109 calories, 1 gram of protein and 7 grams of carbohydrates.
Its benefits lie in its high dietary fiber and vitamin C content.
Which countries produce nata de coco?
The main producing countries of nata de coco are the Philippines, Malaysia and Indonesia.
The Philippines remain unquestionably the number 1 producer of nata de coco in the world, offering wholesale prices defying all competition
How to make homemade coconut nata?
Here is a video explaining the making of the nata de coco :
Some additional tips:
- Use fresh coconut meat for tastier coconut nata cubes. It is best to use fresh coconut.
- Avoid moving the jars during fermentation. If you want your coconut nata to be successful
- Boil the coconut nata cubes to obtain a softer texture.
Frequently asked questions about coconut nata
Is the nata coco halal?
The coconut nata is simply made with natural food and not from animal protein so it is a “halal” food.
Where to buy coconut nata?
You can buy nata de coco from our partners Asia Marché on their online store
Is the nata de coco fermented?
Indeed, the nata de coco is a food fermented with coconut water by the bacterium Acetobacter xylinum.
Is coconut jelly good for your health?
Yes a gelatinous coconut jelly is also rich in vitamin C which acts as a catalyst for the production of antioxidants that the body makes itself. Dietary fiber is essential for digestive health, helps normalize blood glucose levels and relieves constipation.
