Wulung Coconuts
Estimated Inventory, lb : 0
Description/Taste
Wulung coconuts are smaller than the average coconut. They grow by the dozens on stiff central stems and are harvested when still young in their immature, muted green state. The thick, fibrous flesh on the inside of a young Wulung coconut is tinted pink, where others are tan or white. As the coconut matures, the color fades. Wulung coconut water is slightly sweet and has a touch of bitterness due to its high tannin content.
Seasons/Availability
Wulung coconut is available year-round on the island of Java.
Current Facts
Wulung coconut, known as Kelapa Wulung or Degan Wulung on the island of Java, is a rare variety of coconut sold only when young and still green. Botanically it is classified as Cocos nucifera ‘rubescens,’ it has distinctive pink husk fibers beneath its green skin, earning it the nickname Red Fiber coconut or Kelapa Serat Merah in Indonesian. This variety is valued and sought out specifically for its medicinal benefits.
Nutritional Value
Wulung coconut water is an excellent source of electrolytes like potassium, calcium, and magnesium, and minerals like phosphorus, iron and zinc. It is rich in phytochemicals like tannins and flavonoids which offer antibacterial and antioxidant benefits, respectively. The water of the red fibered coconuts contains seven essential amino acids and a small amount of protein, folate, and vitamin C, as well as traces of B-complex vitamins.
Applications
Wulung coconut is used for its beneficial young coconut water. The top of the coconut is hacked off with a sharp knife or machete and the inner cavity is punctured to release the liquid. The water is consumed fresh or refrigerated and served cold. The water will keep for up to 48 hours in the refrigerator. The young coconut water can be used in smoothies or juice blends. Wulung coconut can be stored for up to a week if the stem is still intact and the fruit is unblemished.
Ethnic/Cultural Info
The water of the young Wulung coconuts is prized by local Javanese for its health benefits. According to Indonesian folklore, or cerita rakyat, the water will ward off sorcery and repel negative energy. Javanese healers use Wulung coconut water as an antidote for poison, to treat disorders of the endocrine system, and as a general health tonic.
Geography/History
Wulung coconuts are native to the island of Java, an island in Indonesia just south of Malaysia bordering the Indian Ocean to the west. Coconuts are native to the islands of the Indonesian-Malaysian archipelago. Wulung coconuts can be found in the markets of Bogor and Yogyakarta on Java where the price of a is usually twice as much as that of a regular green coconut. The pink fibered coconuts are most likely spotted at local markets in central and southern Java or found through locals.
Recipe Ideas
Recipes that include Wulung Coconuts. One
is easiest, three is harder.| Saveur |
|
Young Coconut Cream Pie |
| The Spruce Eats |
|
Raw Vegan Thai Coconut Soup |
| Panlasang Pinoy |
|
Buko Salad |
| The Detoxinista |
|
Creamy Coconut Pudding |
