Coconut pudding is a refrigerated dessert very popular in Asian countries like Hong Kong, China, Taiwan, Philippine and Thailand. It is also called as Maja blanca or coconut bar. It is sweet and has the rich flavor of coconut milk. It has a texture similar to jelly. It is served in small squares.

History

This dessert has been adopted from Spanish dessert  manjar blanco. It literally means ‘white delicacy’.

Ingredients and Preparation

Coconut milk, sugar and gelatine are the main ingredients for making coconut pudding. Agar agar or corn starch can also be used to thicken the dessert.

All the ingredients are mixed and cooked together till thick. It is poured in a greased tray and set in the refrigerator. It is then cut into small squares.

The texture of the dessert varies with the usage of the setting agent. When corn starch is used, it has a creamy and soft texture. When agar agar or gelatine is used, it has a jelly-like texture.

Serving

·         Coconut pudding is served chilled as a dessert. It is topped with desiccated coconut.

·         It can also be cut into small pieces and served with fruits like mango or strawberry.

Popular Variations

·         Haupia is a Hawaiian coconut milk pudding. It is served as a traditional and wedding pudding.

·         Karikku is a tender coconut pudding served in Kerala.

·         Tembleque is a popular Latin American dessert. It is a type of coconut pudding.

·         Coconut pannacotta is an Italian dessert made using coconut milk as the base.

Health and Nutrition Facts

Serving size – 80 g

Calories – 220 cal, Fat – 8 g, Protein – 6 g, Carbohydrates – 40 g

·         Coconut pudding is high in calories and fat. It is also a good source of protein. It helps to provide instant energy to the body.

·         Coconut milk is known for numerous benefits. It helps to keep the skin young and supple.

·         It is a good source of Iron and helps to prevent problems like anaemia.

·         It is a good alternative for people suffering from lactose intolerance as it is dairy free.

·         Egg can be added to the pudding. This improves the nutritional value of the dessert.

·         Coconut milk is a good source of phosphorus which helps to maintain blood pressure and also aids strengthening of bones.

Miscellaneous Facts

·         Dr. Oetkar brand manufactures instant coconut pudding mix.

·         Jell-O also has a variant called coconut cream pudding.