CEBU, Philippines - The website www.aboutfilipinofood.com describes macapuno as a special kind of soft coconut meat. It is considered a delicacy in the Philippines when preserved in heavy sugar syrup, usually as long shreds. It can be bought in supermarkets in bottled form, which can be used as an ingredient in haluhalo. It is also a popular flavor of ice cream.
Another popular use of macapuno – preferably fresh macapuno – is making it into candies called Macapuno Balls. Following is a recipe for macapuno candies from www.filveggie.com:
Ingredients:
•4 cans (300 ml) Condensed Milk
•2 cups Macapuno Shreds (actually the preserved, bottled type will also do)
•1 cup Cornstarch
•¼ cup Water
Procedure:
1.In a pan, add condensed milk to macapuno preserves, and then cook in low heat.
2.Halfway into the cooking, remove from heat, add cornstarch (dissolved in a little water).
3.Blend well, then, continue cooking while stirring constantly.
4.Cook until it thickens and mixture separates from pan. Allow to cool.
5.Form into bite-size rounds. Wrap in food-grade color cellophane or just sprinkle with powdered sugar, to prevent the balls from sticking together.
6.Store in a covered but airy container in cool, dry place, if not to be consumed right away. (FREEMAN)