If you’ve ever stumbled upon a colorful, chewy cube floating in a fruit drink or dessert and wondered “What is that?” — you’ve likely met Jubes. These bouncy little bites are more than just a fun dessert; they’re a tropical treat with a rich history and a loyal fanbase. Let’s dive into what makes Jubes so unique and why they deserve a spot in your dessert stash.
What Are Jubes?
Jubes are chewy, bite-sized pieces of nata de coco (coconut gel), a jelly-like substance made from fermented coconut water. Despite the name, they aren’t candy — they’re a naturally-derived dessert that’s lightly sweet, super satisfying to chew, and surprisingly versatile.
First developed in the Philippines, nata de coco has been a staple in Asian desserts for decades. Jubes bring this ingredient to the mainstream, transforming it into a ready-to-eat dessert perfect for modern lifestyles.
How Are Jubes Made?
It all starts with coconut water — which is fermented using a special bacterial culture. Over time, this fermentation process creates a thick, gelatinous layer that is then cut into cubes, washed, and sweetened. The final product? A low-calorie, high-fiber dessert with a refreshingly subtle coconut flavor and a delightfully springy texture.
What Do Jubes Taste Like?
Jubes are:
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Chewy — like firm jelly or soft gummy candy
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Lightly sweet — not overpowering
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Refreshing — especially when chilled
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Subtly tropical — thanks to that hint of coconut
They come in fun flavors like original coconut-pandan, lychee, mango, grape, and strawberry, making them even more addictive.
How Do You Eat Jubes?
Straight out of the pack is totally fine (and delicious), but if you want to level up, here are some ideas:
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Mix into fruit cocktails or smoothies
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Top your yogurt, ice cream, or acai bowls
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Toss into bubble tea or milk tea
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Add to halo-halo, shaved ice, or other Asian desserts
They're also great chilled for a refreshing bite during warm weather.
Why People Love Jubes
Besides being fun to eat, Jubes have some pretty cool benefits:
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Low in calories
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No cholesterol
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Fat-free
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Dairy-free and vegan
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High in dietary fiber
So if you're trying to snack smarter without sacrificing flavor or fun, Jubes are a great choice.
Where Can You Get Jubes?
You’ll find Jubes in Asian grocery stores, health food stores, and online marketplaces. Look for them in single-serving packs or larger tubs in the snack or dessert aisle.
Final Thoughts
Jubes are one of those hidden gems in the snack world — simple, tasty, and a little unexpected. Whether you're trying them for the first time or you're already a nata de coco fan, there's something undeniably satisfying about that chewy, coconutty goodness.
Next time you need a quick, feel-good treat, grab some Jubes — and chew happy!