5 Delicious Recipes You Can Make with Nata de Coco

If you’ve ever tried an Asian dessert or a tropical fruit drink and discovered chewy little cubes that added texture and sweetness, chances are you’ve tasted nata de coco. This coconut-based jelly has become a favorite worldwide for its unique mouthfeel and versatility. Whether stirred into fruit salad, layered into parfaits, or used as a refreshing topping for ice cream, nata de coco is a fun ingredient that can turn ordinary recipes into delightful treats.

In this article, we’ll explore what nata de coco is, its health benefits, and five easy recipes you can try at home. Plus, we’ll show you where to buy nata de coco in the United States so you can start experimenting in your own kitchen.

What is Nata de Coco?

Nata de coco is a chewy, translucent, jelly-like food made from the fermentation of coconut water. Originating in the Philippines, it has become popular across Asia and beyond, often found in drinks, desserts, and fruit cocktails.

The term "nata" means "cream" in Spanish, while "de coco" means "of coconut." Essentially, nata de coco is a “cream of coconut water,” though it looks and feels more like jelly cubes. The fermentation process uses a bacteria called Acetobacter xylinum, which creates a fibrous, gelatinous structure. Once cleaned, cut into cubes, and often preserved in syrup, it’s ready to be used in recipes.

👉 Curious how brands are using it in modern beverages? Explore the refreshing fruit drinks at Mr. Moco Drinks, where nata de coco adds texture and fun to every sip.

Nutritional Benefits of Nata de Coco

Nata de coco isn’t just tasty—it’s also surprisingly healthy compared to many other dessert bases.

• Low in calories – With roughly 60–100 calories per serving (depending on added syrup), it’s lighter than ice cream or puddings.
• High in dietary fiber – Promotes digestion and satiety.
• Fat-free and cholesterol-free – A guilt-free dessert ingredient.
• Hydrating – Because it’s derived from coconut water, it retains some of its refreshing properties.

That said, some packaged nata de coco comes in sugary syrups, so always check labels or rinse before use if you want to keep sugar levels down.

Recipe 1: Nata de Coco Fruit Salad

This is perhaps the most classic way to enjoy nata jelly—as part of a creamy, tropical fruit salad.

Ingredients:

• 1 jar nata de coco (drained)
• 1 can fruit cocktail (drained)
• 1 cup fresh apple chunks
• ½ cup grapes, halved
• 1 cup all-purpose cream (or whipped cream)
• ½ cup condensed milk (adjust for sweetness)

Instructions:

1. Drain nata de coco and canned fruit thoroughly to avoid excess liquid.
2. Combine nata de coco, fruit cocktail, apple chunks, and grapes in a large bowl.
3. Add cream and condensed milk; mix gently.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving.

Serving tip: This dessert is perfect for potlucks, summer parties, and holiday tables.

Recipe 2: Coconut Milk Drink with Nata de Coco

In many Asian cafés, coconut milk drinks with nata de coco are a go-to refreshment. They’re simple, cooling, and endlessly customizable.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup nata de coco (drained)
• 1½ cups coconut milk (chilled)
• 2 tbsp sugar syrup or honey (optional)
• Ice cubes

Preparation:

1. Place nata de coco cubes in a tall glass.
2. Pour in coconut milk.
3. Add sweetener if desired.
4. Top with ice and stir gently.

Variations:

• Add pandan flavor for a Southeast Asian twist.
• Mix in diced mango or lychee for extra fruitiness.

👉 For more ideas on creative fruit-based drinks, browse the Mr. Moco blog section, where tropical flavours and nata de coco recipes are regularly shared.

Recipe 3: Nata de Coco Dessert Parfait

For a lighter but elegant presentation, try a nata de coco parfait. It layers chewy coconut jelly with creamy yogurt and crunchy toppings.

Ingredients:

• ½ cup nata de coco (drained)
• 1 cup Greek yogurt or plain yogurt
• ½ cup granola
• ½ cup mixed berries (blueberries, strawberries, raspberries)
• Honey or agave for drizzle

Layering the Parfait:

1. Spoon yogurt into the base of a glass.
2. Add a layer of granola.
3. Add nata de coco cubes and berries.
4. Repeat layers until glass is full.
5. Drizzle with honey and serve.

Why it works: The creamy, chewy, crunchy combination makes this a satisfying breakfast or snack.

Recipe 4: Nata Jelly Smoothie Bowl

If you love smoothie bowls, this one adds an unexpected twist by using nata de coco jelly as a topping.

Ingredients:

• 1 banana (frozen)
• ½ cup mango chunks
• ½ cup pineapple chunks
• ½ cup coconut milk
• ½ cup nata de coco (for topping)
• Chia seeds or shredded coconut (optional)

Blending and Assembling:

1. Blend banana, mango, pineapple, and coconut milk until smooth.
2. Pour into a bowl.
3. Top with nata de coco cubes, chia seeds, and shredded coconut.

Serving suggestion: This smoothie bowl is perfect for hot days and gives you a tropical vacation vibe in one spoonful.

Recipe 5: Nata de Coco Toppings for Ice Cream

If you’re short on time but want something fun, nata de coco as a topping for ice cream is the easiest way to enjoy it.

Ingredients:

• Vanilla, mango, or coconut ice cream
• ½ cup nata de coco (drained)
• Chocolate syrup or caramel (optional)

Serving Suggestions:

1. Scoop ice cream into a bowl or cone.
2. Add nata de coco cubes on top.
3. Drizzle with syrup for extra indulgence.

Why it works: The chewy nata de coco adds texture and freshness to creamy ice cream, balancing richness with lightness.

Where Can I Buy Nata de Coco?

Nata de coco is widely available in the U.S., both online and in stores.

Online Options:

• Amazon – Multiple brands, flavors, and pack sizes.
• Walmart.com – Nata de coco jars, often in syrup.
• Target.com – Brands like Tropics available online.

Local Stores and Markets:

• Asian grocery chains like H Mart, 99 Ranch, or Seafood City often stock nata de coco in jars or cans.
• Large supermarkets sometimes carry it in the international foods aisle.
• Specialty Filipino and Thai markets are especially reliable sources.

If you’re searching online, try terms like “nata de coco jelly” or “coconut gel.” For in-person shopping, call ahead to your nearest Asian supermarket to check availability.

Conclusion

Chewy, light, and versatile, nata de coco has become a global favorite for good reason. Whether you stir it into fruit salad, layer it in a parfait, or enjoy it as a topping for ice cream, it adds texture and fun to countless recipes.

By trying the five nata de coco recipes shared above, you can experience this coconut jelly in new and creative ways. Best of all, it’s easy to find—whether online or at your nearest Asian market.

✨ Next time you spot a jar of nata de coco, grab it and try one of these recipes—you’ll quickly see why this coconut jelly is loved worldwide. And if you’re looking for ready-to-drink inspirations, visit Mr. Moco Drinks to explore fruit-based beverages already packed with nata de coco goodness.

FAQs

1. What is nata de coco made from?

It’s made by fermenting coconut water using a special bacteria that creates a jelly-like texture.

2. Is nata de coco healthy?

Yes—it's low in calories, high in fiber, and fat-free. Just watch for added sugars in syrups.

3. Can I use nata de coco in drinks?

Absolutely. It’s commonly used in coconut milk drinks, fruit teas, and smoothies.

4. How do I store nata de coco?

Keep it in the fridge once opened, submerged in its syrup or water, and consume within a week.

5. Is nata de coco vegan?

Yes, it’s plant-based and suitable for vegan diets.