Drinks
Nu Vai (Fresh Coconut Water with Lime)
Ingredients
- - 2 young green coconuts
- - 1 lime, juiced
- - Ice, to serve
Method
- Carefully cut the top off each young coconut with a cleaver to expose the water inside.
- Pour the coconut water into glasses, or drink directly from the shell with a straw.
- Add a squeeze of fresh lime juice to each serving.
- Add ice if desired and serve immediately.
Introduction: Young green coconuts (nu) are opened fresh throughout the islands for their cool, refreshing water, often brightened with a squeeze of lime.
Cultural Background: Young green coconuts (nu) are opened fresh throughout the islands for their cool, refreshing water, often brightened with a squeeze of lime. It is the everyday thirst-quencher of the Cook Islands, especially in the heat of the day.
Tips: Choose coconuts that feel heavy for their size, a sign of plenty of water inside.
Variations: A little grated fresh ginger can be muddled in for a warming twist. Naturally vegan.
Storage: Best drunk immediately after opening; coconut water loses freshness quickly once exposed to air.
Reheating: Served cold; not applicable.
Nutrition: Approx. 45 kcal per 250ml serving, 0g fat, 11g carbohydrate, 0g protein.
FAQs
Q: Can I use packaged coconut water instead?
A: Fresh coconuts are traditional, but packaged coconut water can substitute if fresh ones are unavailable.