Lamaw (Buko Lamaw Drink)

Coconut water, scraped young coconut, and condensed milk mixed with ice right in the shell. — Serves 1 large serving · Prep 10m

Ingredients

• 1 young coconut (buko), water reserved and meat scraped into strips
• 1/4–1/3 cup condensed milk, or evaporated milk plus sugar to taste
• 1–1 1/2 cups crushed ice
• 1–2 tablespoons Milo or other chocolate powder, optional
• 2 tablespoons tapioca pearls or gelatin cubes, optional

Method

1. Pour the coconut water into the coconut shell or a large bowl, reserving a little if it is very full.
2. Stir in the condensed milk (or evaporated milk plus sugar) until the sweetness is to your liking.
3. Add any extras such as Milo, tapioca pearls, or gelatin cubes and mix well.
4. Add the scraped young coconut meat.
5. Top with plenty of crushed ice and stir until the drink is very cold and slightly diluted.
6. Serve with both a spoon and straw so you can sip the drink and scoop up the coconut meat and add-ins.

Kitchen note

Lamaw is best with very fresh buko—older coconuts taste flatter and make the drink less refreshing.