Filipino Coconut Jam (Minatamis na Bao) - Foxy Folksy (2024)

This homestyle Coconut Jam recipe is rich, sticky-sweet, and is hands down one of the most delicious fruit spreads out there! It is made of 4 simple ingredients that can be reduced to 2 if you want to keep it traditional. However, this recipe has more depth of flavor because of the added ingredients!

I was really excited to make this in my kitchen because I know someone who loves this jam—my mama! She has always kept one in our cupboard as far as I can remember. We spread it on Pandesal or a slice of toast as a morning or afternoon snack.

It is actually easy to get locally, but some of those highly commercialized ones uses food additives. Not good! So I created a homemade version that is healthier, not overly sweet, and has the perfect texture that spreads easily! Adding a bit of salt and pandan (screwpine) extract to the mixture gives the jam a more interesting flavor palette. Now, it is also Armin's favorite spread.

Filipino Coconut Jam vs Kaya Jam

While both have the same base ingredients, Kaya or Srikaya Jam, which is more popular in other Southeast Asian countries like Singapore, Malaysia, and Indonesia, is made with eggs additional to coconut milk and is sometimes flavored with pandan leaves.

Filipino Coconut jam, or "Minatamis na Bao" in Tagalog, on the other hand, is made purely of using coconut cream, or locally called "kakang gata", and sugar.

What is Coconut Cream or Kakang Gata?

It is the first or second batch of liquid extracted from freshly grated coconut meat. So, it is thicker and contains more fat compared to coconut milk. It is also different from Cream of Coconut. While coconut cream is made purely of coconut extract, cream of coconut has an added ingredient to it: sweeteners. So do not interchange these! Whew, those are a lot of coconuts in one paragraph but I hope I was able to explain the differences.

Foxy Tips when Making Coconut Jam

• I highly recommend using a non-stick pot when making it. This will make it easier for you to stir the mixture around as it thickens.
• Do not overcook the jam or it will turn bitter. Remove from heat once it turns thick but still supple. It will thicken as it cools down.
• To prevent lumps from forming, make sure to stir the mixture consistently as it simmers so the heat is evenly distributed.

How to store Coconut Jam

If you are planning to preserve this for weeks or even months, always start by making sure to sterilize the jars you will be using. Also, remember to let the jam cool down completely before sealing them. Store them in a cool place or in the refrigerator if you plan to store them for later use.

Do not refrigerate an opened jar of coconut jam or it will be difficult to spread. Just leave it at room temperature anf it should be fine for days or even a week or two.

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