Authentic Coconut Candy Recipe from the Caribbean Island of Aruba
The traditional Aruban coconut candy delivers a chewy texture with sweet coconut essence that any person would find appealing. Locals call this street food Kokada, and many people like to enjoy it in its basic form. This blog offers authentic preparation guidelines, together with cultural history insights and step-by-step guidance to make perfect Kokada at home.
What Is Aruban Coconut Candy?
Kokada stands as a heritage coconut candy that originates in Aruba as well as other Caribbean locations. Freshly grated coconut, sugar, and other ingredients (certain spices) are cooked down into a thick mixture that’s then shaped into rounds or clusters.
There are two main types:
- White Kokada – a simple mix of coconut and sugar.
- Pink Kokada – same thing, but dyed pink. Because why not?
It’s sold all over Aruba, be it in the markets, roadside stalls, and beachside vendors. It’s cheap, addictive, and doesn’t need refrigeration.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You don’t need to import anything fancy. Here’s what goes into real Aruban coconut candy:
- 2 cups freshly grated coconut
- One and a half cups of granulated sugar.
- Half cup water
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- Half tablespoon ground cinnamon
- Food coloring
- Pinch of salt
Fresh Coconut is the best option for this. It gives a better texture and taste. But if you’re using dried coconut, soak it in hot water for 10 minutes and drain well.
Step-by-Step Recipe
Prep your Surface
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or grease a flat tray. Have a spoon or scoop ready. Work quickly once the candy reaches the desired consistency.
Combine Sugar and Water
In a saucepan, mix the sugar and water. Warm on medium heat while stirring, just until the sugar starts melting. Stirring gently helps prevent caramelization.
Add the Coconut
Add grated coconut and stir constantly. You’re making a thick paste here. Keep the heat medium.
Add Seasoning
Stir in vanilla, cinnamon, and a dash of salt.
Cook Until Thick
Stir the mixture continuously for 15-20 minutes, or until the mixture reaches a thick consistency. You should pull away only from the sides of the pan. It should look sticky but not runny. If you can form a small ball with the mix that holds its shape, it’s ready.
Shape Quickly
Place spoonfuls into small heaps on the prepared tray. Shape them into discs or domes. Work fast because it sets quickly.
Cool it Down
Let it cool for at least 30 minutes. Once firm, it’s ready to eat.
What Makes This Candy Unique?
- No baking. No candy thermometer. Just basic ingredients and heat.
- Naturally gluten-free and dairy-free.
- Long shelf life. Storage under proper conditions allows your Aruban sweets to remain fresh for at least two weeks.
Storage and Shelf Life
Keep your coconut candy fresh by storing it in a container that is airtight. Keep it cool and dry, no refrigerator is needed up to 2 weeks at room temperature. Refrigerate for up to 1 month, noting that texture may slightly alter.
Where to Find Kokada in Aruba
If you ever visit Aruba, skip the tourist gift shops for this treat. Head to:
- Local food markets: Mostly in Oranjestad
- Small roadside vendors: often sold in clear plastic bags, tied with string
- Supermarkets: sometimes stocked near the bakery section
Kokada is often sold alongside other traditional sweets like peanut brittle (panseiko) and coconut fudge (boyo di cashupete). They’re cheap, made fresh, and usually packed by hand.
Variations You Can Try
- Add chopped nuts (like almonds or cashews)
- Use brown sugar to create a deeper flavor
- Add lime zest for a citrusy edge
- Try shaping them in silicone molds for fun designs
Cultural Significance of Kokada
People must recognize Kokada as much more than a dessert because it embodies family traditions as well as cultural heritage. Home cooks prepare Kokada as an additional money source when they sell it to families and locals for local festivities and gatherings.
This recipe embodies the ingenious spirit of Caribbean cooking. You only need to use basic ingredients to create strong flavors while maintaining conservation of materials to the fullest extent. Aruban folks use the coconut trees that spread throughout the island that provide various benefits.
Conclusion
Aruban coconut candy is a perfect DIY treat. It is easy, affordable, and packed with tropical flavor. It’s a taste of the island you can make in your kitchen without boarding a plane. Try it, share it, maybe even gift it. Just don’t eat it all before it cools.
