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–+ servings
Fresh Buko Juice (Filipino Young Coconut Drink)

Fresh Buko Juice Recipe (Filipino Young Coconut Drink)

Buko juice is the pure, refreshing liquid from young coconuts (buko) combined with its tender meat. In Filipino culture, it's a beloved drink known for its health benefits and natural cooling properties.
Health Benefits
Rich in electrolytes
Natural hydration
Good source of potassium
Contains antioxidants
Aids in digestion
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Course Drinks, Snack
Cuisine Filipino
Servings 3 glasses
Difficulty Easy

Equipment

  • Sharp spoon for scraping (kutsarang panghiwa)
  • Strainer [Salaan]
  • Glass pitcher (pitsel)
  • Serving glasses (mga baso)
  • Knife for opening coconut (if not pre-opened)

Ingredients
 

  • 2 young coconuts Choose coconuts that feel heavy and make a sloshing sound when shaken
  • Ice cubes mga yelo
  • Fresh coconut meat laman ng buko
  • 2 tablespoons sugar optional (asukal)

Instructions
 

  • Start by selecting young coconuts that feel heavy and make a sloshing sound when shaken. If not pre-opened, have them carefully cracked open (ideally by an experienced vendor or family member for safety).
  • Once opened, immediately strain the coconut water through a fine strainer (salaan) into a clean container to remove any shell particles or impurities. This ensures a clean, smooth drink. Keep the strained water chilled while preparing the meat.
  • Using a sharp spoon, carefully scrape the soft coconut meat from the shell. Try to maintain long, ribbon-like strips of the meat (laman ng buko) for traditional presentation. Avoid scraping too deeply into the shell as this can add unwanted tough pieces.
  • In a glass pitcher (pitsel), combine the strained coconut water and meat strips. Taste the mixture first before adding any sugar (asukal), as young coconuts are naturally sweet. If desired, add sugar to taste and stir until dissolved.
  • Add ice cubes (mga yelo) to the pitcher or individual serving glasses. Pour the buko juice mixture over the ice. Traditional serving includes both the water and generous amounts of the meat strips.
  • Serve immediately in tall glasses, preferably with long spoons to enjoy the coconut meat. For best taste and nutritional benefits, consume within 4 hours of opening the coconuts. If storing, keep refrigerated in an airtight container for no more than 24 hours.

Tips from Lola's Kitchen

  1. Choose coconuts that make a sloshing sound when shaken
  2. The softer the meat, the younger the coconut
  3. Best served within 4 hours of opening
  4. Keep refrigerated to maintain freshness
  5. Use a metal straw for an eco-friendly option
 
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!