Lemon Coconut Candy

Coconut Candy Recipe from Cape Verde with a Tangy Twist

Region / culture: Cape Verde | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour | Servings: 24

Introduction

Lemon Coconut Candy is a delicious and sweet treat that combines the tropical flavors of coconut with the tangy zest of lemon. This candy is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth and is a great addition to any dessert table or gift basket.

History

The origins of Lemon Coconut Candy are not entirely clear, but it is believed to have originated in tropical regions where coconuts are abundant. This candy has been enjoyed for generations as a simple and tasty treat that is easy to make at home.

Ingredients

2 lb (907 g) of coconut
2 lb (907 g) of sugar
0.25 cup of burnt sugar or molasses
grated lemons

How to prepare

Grate the coconut. Brown the sugar carefully, making sure not to overburn it.
Then, gently combine the coconut and burnt sugar with a small amount of water.
Next, add 2 lb (907 g) of sugar and cook. When the mixture is almost done, add lemon and mix well.
Remove from heat. Pound the mixture for five minutes. Spread it onto a buttered surface.
Cut into square or diagonal shapes. Allow it to harden.

Variations

Add chopped nuts or dried fruit for added texture and flavor.
Drizzle melted chocolate over the top for a decadent twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be careful when browning the sugar to avoid burning it.

- Make sure to mix the coconut and burnt sugar mixture gently to ensure even distribution.

- Adding lemon zest at the end of cooking will give the candy a bright and refreshing flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Lemon Coconut Candy can be enjoyed on its own as a sweet snack or paired with a cup of tea or coffee.

Cooking Techniques

Grating the coconut and browning the sugar are key steps in making this candy.

- Mixing the ingredients gently and pounding the mixture will help create a smooth and creamy texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use honey or maple syrup as a substitute for burnt molasses.

- Lime zest can be used instead of lemon zest for a slightly different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

Lemon Coconut Candy can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for up to a week.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the Lemon Coconut Candy on a decorative platter or in a gift box for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve Lemon Coconut Candy with a glass of sparkling wine or champagne for a sophisticated dessert pairing.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store Lemon Coconut Candy in a cool, dry place in an airtight container. Reheat in the microwave for a few seconds to soften before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Lemon Coconut Candy contains approximately 150 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Lemon Coconut Candy contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Lemon Coconut Candy contains approximately 10 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Lemon Coconut Candy contains approximately 1 gram of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Lemon Coconut Candy is a good source of vitamin C from the lemon zest.

Alergens

Lemon Coconut Candy may contain coconut and traces of nuts.

Summary

Lemon Coconut Candy is a sweet and indulgent treat that is relatively low in calories and provides a small amount of healthy fats.

Summary

Lemon Coconut Candy is a delightful and easy-to-make treat that is perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings. With its tropical flavors and creamy texture, this candy is sure to be a hit with family and friends.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was drawn to it like a magnet. It was a warm summer day, and I was at a local farmers market browsing through the stalls of fresh produce and homemade goods. As I passed by a small stand, a colorful flyer caught my eye. It read "Lemon Coconut Candy - Grandma's Secret Recipe."

Intrigued, I approached the elderly woman behind the stand and asked about the recipe. She smiled warmly and told me it was a family recipe that had been passed down through generations. She explained that the candy was a perfect combination of sweet and tangy flavors, with a chewy texture that melted in your mouth.

I couldn't resist asking for the recipe, and the kind woman was more than happy to share it with me. She handed me a worn piece of paper with the ingredients and instructions written in faded ink. As I read through the recipe, I could almost taste the lemon and coconut mingling together in a perfect harmony.

I thanked the woman profusely and hurried home to try out the recipe. As I gathered the ingredients and started to mix them together, the kitchen filled with the delightful scent of citrus and coconut. I could feel the love and tradition that had been passed down through the generations, infusing the candy with a special magic.

After hours of patiently stirring and waiting for the candy to set, I finally had a batch of Lemon Coconut Candy ready to taste. I eagerly popped a piece into my mouth and savored the burst of flavor that exploded on my taste buds. It was even better than I had imagined - a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness that left me craving more.

I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my kitchen, a special treat to share with my family and friends. And so, I made it my mission to perfect the art of making Lemon Coconut Candy, experimenting with different ratios of ingredients and techniques to create the most delicious candy possible.

Over the years, I have made countless batches of Lemon Coconut Candy, each one better than the last. I have shared the recipe with friends who have marveled at its unique flavor profile and addictive chewiness. And every time I make a batch, I am reminded of that fateful day at the farmers market when I discovered Grandma's Secret Recipe.

As I sit here now, with a plate of freshly made Lemon Coconut Candy in front of me, I can't help but smile at the memories that this recipe holds. It is more than just a sweet treat - it is a connection to the past, a reminder of the traditions and love that have been passed down through my family.

So the next time you bite into a piece of Lemon Coconut Candy, think of me and my grandmother, and the joy that comes from sharing a delicious recipe with those you love. And remember, sometimes the best recipes are the ones that have been handed down through generations, carrying with them a legacy of flavor and tradition.