Hawaiian: Haupia (Coconut Pudding)

Recipe by Paul Young <info@cooking-with-paul.com>

(serves 9)

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon coconut oil
• 3 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 cup coconut water
• 14 oz coconut cream (1¾ cups or 1 can)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup coconut syrup (Monin or Torani)
• ¼ cup toasted coconut for garnish (optional)
• Mint leaves and/or fresh berries for garnish (optional)

Procedure:

1. Rub an 8x8 inch baking dish with coconut oil
2. Dissolve cornstarch in coconut water; set aside
3. Add rest of the ingredients (except the garnish) to a saucepan; heat over medium heat until mixture starts to boil
4. Stir in coconut water with dissolved cornstarch, stir constantly until mixture thickens
5. Pour mixture into the prepared baking dish and gently shake back and forth to settle
6. Let cool uncovered on the counter for about 10 minutes then cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate until firm, about 1-2 hours
7. Using a sharp knife, cut into 9 equal-sized squares
8. Sprinkle with toasted coconut and garnish with fresh fruit (if desired)