Stingless Bee Honey Mocktail with Coconut Milk and Pandan

Annie's Stingless Bee Honey Mocktail

A vibrant, healthful blend celebrating native bees and Filipino flavors

The Gold of Stingless Bees

Stingless bees (Trigona), known locally as kiyot or lukot, have been nurturing Philippine ecosystems for centuries. Their honey—thinner, tangier, and richer in antioxidants than regular honey—has been prized in traditional medicine for its anti-inflammatory properties. Annie’s stingless bee honey from Nagcarlan carries a distinct citrus-forward sweetness, making it ideal for balancing complex flavors. By supporting native beekeeping, this mocktail celebrates biodiversity, sustainable farming, and the revival of indigenous culinary traditions.

"Stingless bee honey isn’t just a sweetener—it’s liquid heritage, connecting us to our land and ancestors."
Stingless bee honey, coconut milk, and fresh herbs

Local ingredients shine in this zero-proof masterpiece.

Ingredients

Serves 2

  • 60ml Annie’s stingless bee honey (from Nagcarlan)
  • 120ml coconut milk (chilled, shake well before using)
  • 30ml pandan syrup*
  • 15ml lemongrass-pandan hydrosol blend**
  • 45ml fresh calamansi juice (or key lime)
  • 2 sprigs fresh tarragon (substitute: pandan leaf for garnish)
  • Sparkling water (to top)
  • Crushed ice

*Pandan syrup: Simmer 1 cup water, 1 cup sugar, and 4 chopped pandan leaves for 10 minutes. Strain and cool.
**Hydrosol blend: Steep 1 part dried lemongrass + 1 part fresh pandan leaves in boiling water for 20 minutes. Strain and chill.

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Base: In a shaker, combine stingless bee honey, coconut milk, pandan syrup, hydrosol blend, and calamansi juice. Coconut milk can separate when shaken—add a pinch of xanthan gum (optional, 1/8 tsp) for emulsion stability.
  2. Shake Vigorously: Add a handful of ice to the shaker. Shake for 15 seconds until frothy and well-chilled.
  3. Strain and Serve: Strain into tall glasses filled with crushed ice. Top with sparkling water, stirring gently to combine layers.
  4. Garnish: Slap a tarragon sprig between your palms to release its aroma, then tuck it into the glass. Add a pandan leaf "straw" for whimsy.
"The hydrosol’s herbal notes and the honey’s citrus finish turn each sip into a journey through Filipino farmlands."

Why This Mocktail Stands Out

This drink masterfully balances health and hedonism. Stingless bee honey’s prebiotics synergize with coconut milk’s healthy fats, while calamansi adds a vitamin C boost. The hydrosol blend—infused with lemongrass (antibacterial) and pandan (blood sugar regulator)—elevates it beyond a mere refreshment. Unlike alcoholic cocktails, every ingredient serves both flavor and function, making it ideal for mindful indulgence.