We’re all familiar with the delicious foods derived from the humble coconut, including the best condiments and seasonings that are made from it, but this Hong Kong-based company is utilising a different part of the plant to make coconut syrup and vinegar. The team at CÓCOES describes its sustainable products, coconut health food and organic farming mission in this way: “To create organic, healthy, great-tasting and sustainably farmed condiments, sweeteners and beverages.”
In short, they want to provide alternatives to the existing mainstream markets. And they’re doing this by using a star ingredient in their sustainable products: coconut flower sap. (CÓCOES – pronounced “koh-KOHs” – is a play on the Latin word for coconut tree.)
Creating sustainable products and the best condiments and seasonings
This naturally sweet nectar is collected from the blossoms of coconut palms from the company’s own eco-friendly farms in Palawan in the Philippines. Skilled tappers climb the palms using a combination of time honoured techniques and updated tools for improved efficiency and sustainability. They then carefully slice a thin layer off the flower bud, allowing the sap to flow into specially designed collection containers.
Coconut health food options
This sap – “the lifeblood of CÓCOES’ products” – is full of amino acids, vitamins and minerals, and forms the basis of the company’s current offerings, which include coconut syrup, sauce and seasonings. Here’s what’s on offer:
- Organic Coconut Flower Syrup: A versatile liquid sweetener that’s an alternative to common table sugar, with a rich caramel taste ideal for pancakes, sauces, dressings and beverages.
- Organic Coconut Flower Aminos: A savoury alternative to soy sauce, adding umami depth to marinades, stir fries and dips.
- Organic Coconut Flower Aminos-Teriyaki: Seasoning made from naturally ageing coconut flower sap and salt and spices following a traditional Japanese recipe.
- Organic Coconut Flower Vinegar: Made from naturally fermented coconut flower sap, which is already in liquid form, preserving most nutrients.
- The Power of SLOW Coconut Flower Sap Drink: A hydrating, energising drink harvested from the flower of the coconut palm and fuelled by natural nutrients and minerals.
Key questions
Do the products taste like coconut?
“To the untrained pallet, no, though aficionados may find a subtle hint of coconut. The sweetness comes from the natural sugars in the sap. It offers a complex flavour profile compared to refined sugar.”
What are some of the specific aspects of your coconut health food?
“Our products contain essential minerals like potassium, magnesium, calcium, sodium and iron as well as Vitamins B1, B3, B5, B7, B8, B9 and C. They’re free from artificial additives and preservatives, and are vegan, soy-free, gluten free and paleo-friendly. Plus, their Low Glycaemic Index cause a gradual rise in blood sugar levels, making them suitable for diabetics.”
What are the best condiments and seasonings to get started with?
“We recommend starting with one of our Tasting Kits – either Sweet or Savory. Great recipes to try include Tomato Burrata Toast with Aminos Vinaigrette Dressing, Asian Cucumber Salad and Sweet Ginger Chili Chicken. See cocoes.com/pages/recipes for more ideas.”
Buy directly from the farms via cocoes.com (delivery anywhere in HK takes two to three days) or at SpiceBox, either online (spiceboxorganics.com) or in-store:
- 137 Caine Road, Golden Valley Mansion, Mid-Levels | 2559 9887
- 39-45 Hau Wo Street, Kennedy Town | 2191 0886
- Shop G10, Capri Place – O’South Coast, Tseung Kwan O | 3485 8393
This article about new organic coconut-based health food first appeared in the Summer 2024 issue of Expat Living magazine. Subscribe now so you never miss an issue.
Enjoyed reading about these coconut syrups, condiments and seasonings? Find more articles like this in our Wine & Dine section.