7 things a coconut can offer other than coconut water
When the weather is sweltering, who wouldn’t like some ice-cold coconut water or, even better, some deliciously creamy coconut shake? As a good source of sugar, fibre, antioxidants, proteins, vitamins and minerals, it is no wonder why we’d gladly consume coconut water to replace lost fluids during a hot day.
This tropical fruit is one of nature’s most versatile products. In addition to its sweet and nutritious water, here are seven other things a coconut can offer.
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UFC Refresh 100% Natural Coconut Water, 12 x 500ml
S$19.90 S$21 at Amazon Singapore
Zico Coconut Water, 12 x 330ml
1. Coconut milk
Apart from coconut water, coconut milk is also no stranger to all the curry-lovers. Coconut milk is extracted from coconut meat. Although it is a lot less common in Singapore now, some vendors still sell shredded coconut meat. With the shredded meat, you can make coconut milk at home simply by adding water.
Nowadays, people turn to canned coconut milk for convenience. A point to note, though, is that coconut milk in a can is more viscous and is usually used in making curry. This is different from the thin coconut milk that is used in beverages like coffee.
Ayam Brand Organic Coconut Milk, 200 ml
UFC Velvet Unsweetened Coconut Milk, 1 l
S$4.30 S$4.95 at Amazon Singapore
2. Coconut oil
Coconut oil gained more popularity recently due to its skin-softening and moisturising properties. Apart from topical uses, coconut oil is also consumed for its medicinal properties. It is a good antioxidant source, which may help with weight loss as it encourages fat burning and reduces hunger.
Coco Road Organic & Fair Trade Virgin Coconut Oil (15 Fl Oz)
Tropicana Virgin Coconut Oil, 100 ml
3. Coconut meat
One of the best things about buying a whole coconut is to scoop out and munch on the tasty white meat. The coconut meat can also be blended into smoothies or used as a garnish. Some retailers have even turned coconut meat into scrumptious coconut chips!
S$5.38 S$6.90 at Amazon Singapore
Absolute Organic Coconut Chips, 200g
4. Coconut flour
Just like how coconut meat can be made into coconut milk, the meat can also be dried and turned into coconut flour. Coconut flour also makes a gluten-free substitute in baked goods.
Bob's Red Mill Organic Coconut Flour, 453g
5. Coconut sugar
Coconut sugar, which looks like brown sugar, is made from coconut palm sap. It is similar to palm sugar and cane sugar, and is used as a sweetener. Despite the health claims, there is no scientific evidence to show that coconut sugar is more nutritious or healthier than other sweeteners.
Bob's Red Mill Organic Coconut Sugar, 369g
S$10.10
Naked Organic Coconut Flower Sugar, 350g
S$6.90
6. Coconut husk and shell: scrubber, fuel and crafts
The dry and rough husk fibres can be used as natural scrubbers for cleaning or burned as fuel. Both the husk and shell can be used as a craft material to produce handicrafts like bowls, ropes, and rugs.
7. Coconut leaves: broom, thatch and wrap
The tough and long leaves are usually used to make brooms or as a roofing material for houses. It can also be used as a wrap for cooking and storage, similar to the banana leaf.
