Delicious Angolan Coconut Dessert Recipe – Quick and Easy
Well, howdy folks! My name is Mark Twain, and today I want to tell you about a delicious dessert that hails all the way from Angola. It’s called Cocada Angolana, and let me tell you, it’s a real slice of heaven!
This traditional Angolan recipe is the perfect combination of sweet and savory. It’s a coconut dessert that’s made with simple ingredients like shredded coconut, sugar, water, eggs, and milk. But don’t let its simplicity fool you — this dessert packs a ton of flavor that’ll have your taste buds dancin’!
Now, if you’re like me and have a sweet tooth the size of Texas, then this cocada amarela recipe is exactly what you need in your life. The dish is also known as cocada amarela because of its bright yellow color due to egg yolks being added in it. It’s a mainstay in many households in Angola and has been enjoyed for generations.
And even though it hails from Africa, don’t be fooled – this dish can be enjoyed by anyone, anywhere. So why not put on your apron, break out your spatulas, and get ready to whip up some magic with me? Trust me, once you’ve tried this delicious cocada amarela recipe, there’s no going back!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Folks, let’s talk cocada angolana! This traditional Angolan dessert is as sweet and appealing as they come. With its fan of shredded coconut, sweetened milk and egg yolk – this nutritious dessert is a perfect way to end your evening meal. It’s not just me who thinks so; cocada angolana is a popular dessert across Angola and Mozambique for its simple ingredients and delicious taste.
So why will you love this recipe? Let me tell you! Firstly, the dish can be prepared easily with minimal time and effort. You only need a handful of ingredients, like grated coconut, sugar, eggs, coconut milk and whole cloves, to make it. Secondly, it can be served in individual portions or family-style for a festive gathering or potluck. Thirdly, it combines the perfect harmony of creamy coconut milk and the sweetness of brown sugar evokes memories of palm trees swaying on sandy beaches.
But perhaps the best thing about this dessert is its versatility – it can be customized to your preference. Add ground cinnamon or coconut flakes for extra flavor and texture or swap traditional sugar with condensed milk for a luscious custard that will leave you begging for more.
Let’s be real here: if you’re a fan of coconut, then you absolutely need to try cocada angolana! Not only is it easy to prepare but it’s also the perfect addition to any dinner party or afternoon tea. Trust me; one bite of this delectable dish, and you’ll be transported to a tropical paradise where the sun shines bright, the sand is warm under your feet, while indulging in this heavenly cocada amarela recipe that has been enjoyed by generations of Angolan families over hundreds of years.
Ingredient List
Before heading to the kitchen to prepare this Angolan Coconut Dessert (Cocada Angolana) recipe, let’s gather all the necessary ingredients. You’ll need:
– 2 cups of grated coconut
– 1 ½ cup of sugar
– 4 whole cloves
– 1 cinnamon stick
– 1 ½ cup of water
– 4 egg yolks
This recipe uses simple yet flavorful ingredients that give this dessert its unique taste. The main ingredient is the fan-favorite coconut. For this recipe, I recommend using shredded coconut as it has a softer texture that blends in well with the other ingredients. To add sweetness, we’ll use sugar, and to enhance the flavor, we’ll add cloves and cinnamon.
To bind everything together, we’ll use egg yolks. Make sure they’re at room temperature before you start preparing your Cocada Angolana. Finally, you will also need water to mix with sugar and make syrup.
All these simple ingredients come together beautifully in this traditional Angolan dessert!
The Recipe How-To
Hey there! Are you ready to get cookin’? Good, because this Angolan Coconut Dessert (Cocada Angolana) recipe is going to blow your taste buds away! The beauty of this dish is in its simplicity – the dish takes only a few ingredients to make but it’s oh so satisfying. So, without further ado, let’s get started!
Step 1: Combine Water and Sugar
First things first, you’ll need to bring 2 cups of water and 4 cups of sugar to a boil in a large saucepan. Stir continuously until all the sugar has dissolved.
Tip: Be sure to use a large pot or pan because the mixture will bubble up during cooking.
Step 2: Add Whole Cloves and Ground Cinnamon
Once the sugar has dissolved, add 4 whole cloves and 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon to the pan. Stir everything together until well combined.
Tip: If you’re not a fan of cloves or cinnamon, feel free to use less or omit them altogether. The recipe will still turn out great!
Step 3: Stir in Grated Coconut and Milk
Next, add 1 1/2 cups of grated coconut and 1/2 cup of milk to the pan. Stir everything together until well combined.
Tip: You can use fresh or frozen grated coconut for this recipe. If you’re using frozen coconut, be sure to thaw it out before using it in the recipe.
Step 4: Cook Until Thickened
Continue to cook the mixture over medium heat for about 20-30 minutes, stirring continuously, until it thickens into a slightly sticky consistency.
Step 5: Add Egg Yolks and Continue Cooking
In a small bowl, whisk together 5 egg yolks. Remove the pot from the heat and slowly pour in the egg yolks, whisking continuously to avoid scrambling them.
Tip: Be sure to remove the pot from heat before adding the egg yolks to avoid scrambling them.
Return the pot to the heat and continue cooking over low heat for approximately 10 minutes, stirring constantly until everything has thickened into a custard-like consistency.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Remove the pot from the heat and allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving. You can serve this dish either warm or cold, depending on your preference. This dish pairs well with a cup of coffee or tea. Enjoy your delicious Cocada Angolana dessert!
Note: This recipe serves 8-10 people, so be sure to adjust the amounts accordingly if you’re cooking for a smaller or larger group.
Time to Dig In!
There you have it – my recipe for Angolan Coconut Dessert (Cocada Angolana)! This dish is simple to make
Substitutions and Variations
Well, folks, sometimes we just don’t have all the ingredients we need to make a recipe. Fear not! I’ve got some substitution suggestions for you to get creative with this Angolan Coconut Dessert.
First up, if you can’t find the whole cloves, you could always use ground cloves instead. It won’t have quite the same flavor, but it’ll still be tasty.
If you’re not a fan of grated coconut, you could try using shredded coconut or coconut flakes instead. It’ll give your Cocada Angolana a different texture and possibly change the overall taste a bit.
For those of you who want to spice things up a bit, try adding some ground cinnamon to the mix. It’ll give an extra layer of warmth and flavor that’ll make your taste buds dance with joy.
Now, let’s talk about variations of this traditional dessert. In Mozambique, they have a similar dessert called Cocada Amarela that is made with egg yolks instead of whole eggs. You could always try that out for something a little different.
If you’re really feeling adventurous, why not turn this into a coconut custard? Mix in some condensed milk and bake it in a pie crust for an entirely new experience. Or even better, use it as a topping for some homemade coconut macaroons or sprinkle it on top of your favorite Brazilian dessert.
The possibilities are endless when it comes to this delicious coconut porridge-like dish. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavors and textures until you find the perfect combination that fits your taste!
In conclusion, whether you stick with the traditional Cocada Angolana recipe or test out some substitutions and variations, give this dessert made of eggs, coconut meat and sugar water (plus extra hints) a try – I promise it’s worth it!
Serving and Pairing
When it comes to serving and pairing this delightful Angolan coconut dessert, the possibilities are endless! The Cocada Angolana is a traditional dessert that tastes best when enjoyed with close family and friends.
To take your presentation up a notch, consider garnishing your Cocada Angolana with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon or shredded coconut flakes. You can also pair it with some tasty coconut cookies, macaroons or even coconut candy to satisfy your sweet tooth cravings.
If you prefer a more creamy and decadent dessert, try serving the Cocada Angolana with a side of coconut custard made from condensed milk or evaporated milk. This rich and silky pudding is the perfect complement to the spiced coconut flavor of the Cocada Angolana.
Another great pairing is to serve the Cocada Angolana alongside a warm cup of coffee or tea in the afternoon. The sweet, aromatic aroma of the cinnamon paired with the bold flavors of coffee will dance together perfectly on your taste buds.
In summary, this luscious coconut dessert pairs well with many other sweet treats as well, making it a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in countless ways. So, what are you waiting for? Serve up some Cocada Angolana today and impress your family and friends with this unique and delectable treat!
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
Now, let’s talk about making ahead, storing, and reheating this delightful Angolan Coconut Dessert (Cocada Angolana) Recipe.
This dessert can be made in advance as it stores really well. You can make a fresh batch and keep it in the fridge for up to 5-7 days. Simply transfer the cocada angolana to an airtight container or cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. This ensures its freshness is locked in.
If you plan on freezing this coconut dessert cocada for longer shelf life, I recommend waiting until just before serving time. Freeze only the amount that you think you will need in small portions. Keep in mind that the dish may become a little watery after freezing and thawing due to the high content of coconut milk and grated coconut. But fear not, simply drain off any excess liquid before serving.
To reheat this Angolan dessert cocada, place it in a microwave-safe bowl and heat for 30 seconds at a time until thoroughly warmed through. Be sure to stir intermittently during reheating so that the heat is evenly distributed throughout.
In conclusion, this Angolan Coconut Dessert (Cocada Angolana) Recipe is incredibly versatile! It stores well, freezes well within limits and is easily reheated when those cravings strike. This dessert is perfect for make-ahead entertaining, picnics or even special occasions where time is short but expectations for great flavor are high!
Tips for Perfect Results
Folks, now we come to the most important part of this recipe article – tips! I have prepared for you some essential advice on how to make this Angolan Coconut Dessert (Cocada Angolana) recipe beyond perfect. So get ready, grab a pen and paper, and let’s dive in!
Tip number one is all about the main ingredient – coconut. When making this dessert, I highly recommend using fresh coconut rather than packaged shredded coconut. The latter may contain preservatives or high levels of added sugar that can affect the overall flavor of your cocada Angolana.
It’s best to select a mature coconut that is heavy in hand with a hard exterior and shake it. If you hear that there’s plenty of water inside, that means the coconut is good to go! To extract the meat out of it, pierce two or three holes through one of its eyes and drain out the clear liquid. Then hit it on firm ground to crack it open.
Once you get a hold of the coconut meat, remove the brown skin layer by using a vegetable peeler or pairing knife before grating it finely. Trust me; it is worth putting in extra effort for fresh ingredients that enhance the flavor on your palate.
Now let’s move on to tip number two- do not leave any ingredient behind! This may sound basic, but carefully following each step ensures a successful outcome. Make sure you have weighed out all ingredients carefully and double-checked them before starting with the recipe.
Tip number three- simmer low and slow! This method always works for cooking custard-like desserts like Cocada Angolana. Stir the mixture frequently at low heat setting because burning is not an option here! You must maintain patience and follow every step precisely without being hasty.
Tip number four – spice up your Cocada Angolana! As per the traditional recipe, cinnamon stick and whole cloves add an extra aroma and flavor to the dessert. However, feel free to add a pinch of ground cinnamon to enhance it to your preference.
Last but not least, tip number five – let your Cocada Angolana cool before setting it in the fridge overnight. This dessert tastes even better chilled after 24 hours. Therefore, patience is the key here too. You want the dessert at the perfect consistency and texture before digging in.
As Granny used to say, ‘the secret ingredient is always love.’ So give these tips a try with love and care, and you’ll have a delicious treat ready to savor!
Bottom Line
So, there you have it, folks! My recipe for Angolan Coconut Dessert (Cocada Angolana). This traditional dessert from Angola is an absolute treat for coconut lovers. The combination of shredded coconut, eggs, and sugar creates a creamy and spiced custard that is hard to resist.
I urge you to give this dessert a try! It’s easy to make with simple ingredients that are readily available. You can enjoy it as a pudding, add it as a topping for your ice cream or even use it as a filling for cakes and pastries.
The Cocada Angolana is an excellent representation of the rich and diverse culinary heritage of Angola. Through food, we can explore the culture, traditions, and history of different regions worldwide.
So, what are you waiting for? Get ready to transport yourself to the vibrant land of Angola through this delicious dessert. Trust me; your taste buds will thank you!
Angolan Coconut Dessert (Cocada Angolana) Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup water
- 2 cups sugar
- 4 whole cloves
- 4 cups grated coconut
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1 -2 tablespoon cinnamon
Instructions
- In a large pot over medium heat, cook water sugar, and cloves. Stir until dissolved. Heat until mixture reaches soft-ball stage on a candy thermometer (about 240F).
- Using a spoon carefully discard cloves.
- Add coconut and milk. The mixture will clump. Continue to stir until smooth. Simmer for a few minutes.
- Spoon into serving dishes and refrigerate at least 30 minutes.
- Sprinkle with cinnamon. Serve chilled.
Add Your Own Notes
Nutrition
Recommended Recipes Just For You
None found
Dora
Dora is a chef well-versed in Brazilian and American cuisine. After a hard day's work in the kitchen of her restaurant, she finds the time to jot down recipes for her food blog. Her recipes are sure to delight foodies everywhere, as she strives to make each one unique and enjoyable to read.