Conserva de Coco (Venezuelan Coconut Candy)

🧂 Ingredients

• 500g Shredded coconut(Unsweetened, preferably fresh or frozen. If using dried, ensure it's not sweetened.)
• 400g Papelón (Panela/Piloncillo)(Unrefined whole cane sugar. If unavailable, substitute with dark brown sugar, though the flavor will be slightly different.)
• 1 cup (240ml) Water(To dissolve the papelón.)
• 1 Cinnamon stick(About 3-4 inches long.)
• 4 Whole cloves

👨‍🍳 Instructions

1. 1

   Prepare the syrup: In a medium saucepan, combine the papelón, water, cinnamon stick, and cloves. Place over medium heat.

   ⏱️ 5 minutes
2. 2

   Dissolve the papelón: Stir the mixture constantly until the papelón completely dissolves. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to infuse and the syrup to slightly thicken. Skim off any impurities that rise to the surface.

   ⏱️ 20 minutes
3. 3

   Strain the syrup: Remove the cinnamon stick and cloves from the syrup using a slotted spoon or by carefully pouring the syrup through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean saucepan. Discard the spices.

   ⏱️ 2 minutes
4. 4

   Add the coconut: Add the shredded coconut to the strained syrup. Stir well to ensure all the coconut is coated.

   ⏱️ 3 minutes
5. 5

   Cook the mixture: Place the saucepan over medium-low heat. Cook, stirring continuously, until the mixture thickens considerably and starts to pull away from the sides of the pan. This process is crucial for achieving the desired dense texture. The mixture should become very sticky and glossy. Be patient, as this can take 40-50 minutes. The final consistency should resemble a very thick paste.

   ⏱️ 40-50 minutes
6. 6

   Prepare for molding: Lightly grease a shallow baking dish or a mold (approximately 8x8 inches or similar) with a neutral oil or butter. Alternatively, line it with parchment paper.

   ⏱️ 5 minutes
7. 7

   Transfer and shape: Carefully pour the hot coconut mixture into the prepared mold. Spread it evenly and press down firmly with a spatula or the back of a spoon to create a dense, compact layer. Aim for a thickness of about 1/2 to 3/4 inch.

   ⏱️ 5 minutes
8. 8

   Cool and cut: Let the conserva cool completely at room temperature for at least 1 hour, or until firm to the touch. Once cooled and set, use a sharp knife to cut the candy into small squares or diamond shapes.

   ⏱️ Minimum 1 hour cooling

💡 Pro Tips

• ✓The key to a dense conserva is continuous stirring during the final cooking stage to evaporate excess moisture.
• ✓Ensure your papelón is fresh; old papelón can be hard and difficult to dissolve.
• ✓This candy is traditionally made during the Christmas holidays in Venezuela but can be enjoyed year-round.
• ✓For a slightly softer candy, reduce the cooking time slightly, but be aware it may not set as firmly.

🔄 Variations

• Add a pinch of ground cinnamon or nutmeg to the mixture along with the whole spices for a more intense flavor.
• Use dark papelón for a richer, molasses-like flavor and a darker color.
• Incorporate a small amount of grated lime zest for a subtle citrus note.

🥗 Nutrition

Per serving