7 Things to do with Coconut That Are Simple Enough for Anyone to do ...

Heather

I love coconut, and have come up with quite a list of creative things to do with coconut that you might like too. Some of these ideas might be common to some of you, while they might be new to others of you out there. If you’re new to using coconut, I highly recommend trying it! It’s one of the most nourishing, but beneficial foods you can consume. Regardless that it contains a good bit of fat, these fats are great for you, your hair, skin and nails. Next time you’re looking to try this magical food in a new, healthy way, check out some of these things to do with coconut. I promise, there are many options out there besides just consuming it through a Mounds bar!

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1. Coconut Milk

Stop buying those store bought coconut milks and try one of my favorite things to do with coconut, which is to make your own! All you need to do is blend one cup of unsweetened shredded coconut in your blender with 4 cups water. Blend for two minutes and sweeten with stevia or a date if you wish before blending to give it a sweeter taste. Then, just strain all the coconut through a cheesecloth, or nutmilk bag, or even a thin towel. Do this over a bowl and squeeze out all the liquid into the bowl. Now you have your own delicious coconut milk! You can use this milk however you like and it will last 4 days in your fridge. Best of all, it contains no additives or funny ingredients like store bought varieties have either.

2. Pancakes

I love making pancakes with coconut flour. Simply use 2 tbsp. coconut flour per 2 egg whites, or a banana, mashed. Mix this in a bowl with any seasoning you like and you have your own pancakes! This generally makes two small pancakes, so feel free to double the recipe if you like. Coconut is rich in fiber, so you need less of the flour to get the results you want. If you prefer you can even add 1 tbsp. of oats and add a little liquid for a more filling pancake with a heartier texture.

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When you're whisking up these delightful morning treats, don't hesitate to get creative. Adding a sprinkling of cinnamon or a dash of vanilla extract can elevate the flavor beautifully. If you're in the mood for a touch of sweetness, drizzle in a bit of honey or maple syrup instead of refined sugars. For those who prefer a burst of berry goodness, folding in fresh blueberries or raspberries will make for an irresistible fruity twist. Your kitchen will soon be the heart of comforting, wholesome indulgence!

Frequently asked questions

Oh, you're in for a treat! Fresh coconut can be used in so many delicious things. You can whip up refreshing coconut water, make coconut milk, or even bake some yummy coconut macaroons. Trust me, the possibilities are endless!

Prepping fresh coconut might seem tricky, but it's actually pretty simple. First, find the three 'eyes' on the coconut and poke one open. Drain the water (yum!). Then, crack the coconut open with a hammer or something heavy. Once it's open, you can scoop out the flesh with a spoon or a knife. Easy peasy!

Coconut meat is so versatile! You can grate it to make desiccated coconut for baking, blend it into smoothies, or just snack on it raw. My personal favorite is to toast it in the oven with a sprinkle of sugar—it's a fantastic snack!

Absolutely! Coconut can be the star of many recipes. Think coconut shrimp, coconut curry, or even coconut ice cream. If you want something quick and easy, try making coconut chips. Just slice the meat, sprinkle with a bit of salt, and bake. They're so addictive!

Ah, the often-overlooked coconut chaff! Don't throw it away. You can use it as compost for your garden since it's rich in nutrients. Alternatively, it makes a great exfoliant in homemade scrubs. Just mix it with some coconut oil and you’ve got a natural body scrub!

3. Coconut Pudding

Another fun idea is to mix 1/2 cup of shredded, unsweetened coconut in a blender with a little yogurt and make your own pudding! If you want, you can also blend it with a banana for a cleaner recipe, and feel free to add spices and flavors. I also like adding stevia too!

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This coconut pudding can be a perfect dessert or an indulgent breakfast. For some extra flair, try drizzling a bit of honey or top with a handful of fresh berries for a colorful presentation. Another twist is to add a dash of cinnamon or vanilla extract for a warm flavor. This adaptable treat can be adapted to your taste preferences and can be prepared in advance for a delicious go-to snack. Remember to chill the pudding in the refrigerator to let it set and develop its rich, creamy texture before serving.

4. Raw Cookies

If you haven’t tried making your own raw cookies with coconut yet, do give it a try ! Mix one cup each of cashews or almonds, with 1 cup of shredded unsweetened coconut and ½ cup of dried dates or figs. Mix this in your food processor and in a few minutes, you’ll have raw cookie dough. You can shape this into bars, bites or cookies, however you prefer.

5. Coconut Kefir

Have you ever had coconut kefir? If not, it’s delicious! Buy a vegan kefir starter or a regular dairy starter from your store, or online from Cultures for Health, and follow the directions on the package using homemade coconut milk.. In a day or two, you’ll have your own kefir, completely homemade. You can find Cultures for Health at: culturesforhealth.com .

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Coconut kefir is a probiotic-rich beverage that is not only flavorful but also good for your gut. Whether you're lactose intolerant or seeking a plant-based alternative, this is a superb choice. Mix it in smoothies, pour over granola, or enjoy it by itself as a tangy drink. Give it a personal twist with a drop of vanilla extract or a spoonful of honey for added sweetness. Embrace this delightful, fizzy drink and watch its natural effervescence add a lively touch to your daily routine!

6. Oatmeal Add-in

I love my oatmeal, but tend to get a little bored with it out of habit. To really take things up a notch on days I’m hungry or just need something fun to eat, I like to add unsweetened shredded coconut to my oatmeal. You can also cook some in your oatmeal if you prefer that toasted coconut flavor! The fiber and healthy fats will help keep you fuller longer and they’re easy to digest, so you don’t have to worry about digestive issues at all. This is great to have right before a workout, by the way!

7. Coconut Water

Just like making coconut milk is simple enough to do in your own kitchen, so is making your own coconut water! You can use shredded, unsweetened coconut, coconut butter or raw coconut meat to make it. All you need to do is use 1 part coconut to 8 parts water to get a more watery beverage than you do a milk beverage. It won’t have the exact electrolyte composition as raw coconut water from a real coconut, but it’s the next best option. Follow the same procedure as coconut milk, but use 1 part coconut to 8 parts water, and make however much you want, based on your needs. It will last about 4 days in the fridge.

I like blending coconut into smoothies as well, especially using coconut butter. The oil is also great to cook with, along with its uses as a beauty aid. Aside from those most basic uses that most people know, I thought I’d share with you some of my other favorite things to do with coconut. Do you have any to share with me?

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Where Thoughts and Opinions Converge

I love coconut

U have to make sure the coconut water is really cold. Or make Ice cubes and put them in pineapple juice.

Coconut oil in your hair is healthily also good for the face.

Swishing coconut oil is great for the health of your teeth and gums! Way better for you than Fluoride! Share with your dentist!

I only like coconut with alcohol

Add coconut oil to your bath. It helps prevent stretch marks!

ILOVE Coconut anything

Ugh.. I wish I could get use to coconut water but I just can't do it!