A fruit, a nut, or a seed – Coconut is as versatile as it gets. It is widely used for its meat, oil, milk, and water in various forms. Originally a tropical fruit, coconut isn’t just succumbed to the kitchen and finds its use in several industries including beauty, health, and construction. Let’s get to know about some of the many types of coconut and how you can consume them –

Different forms of coconut 

• Desiccated Coconut

Coconut which has been shredded, powdered, or chipped and later dried out is known as desiccated coconut. It is extremely convenient and can be used in a variety of savory and sweet dishes.

• Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is available both in edible and non-edible forms. The edible oils are ideal for cooking purposes and the non-edible oils are great for body, hair, and face massage oil.

• Coconut Milk

Coconut milk can be simply made at home. Just add grated coconut, water, salt in a blender. Once the mix is blended well, you can add vanilla essence or dates for added sweetness. Strain out the milk using a fine muslin cloth. Alternatively, you can also order coconut milk powder from an Indian grocery delivery store in Toronto. 

• Coconut Chutney Powder

One of the most popularly used South Indian condiment is coconut chutney powder. It can be prepared at home with shredded coconut, roasted dal, dry red chilies, and garlic. Coarsely blend it to a powder. If you want to try authentic coconut chutney powder, buy groceries online in Canada today.

Non-culinary uses

Coconut is known to contain high essential fats which are very nourishing for the body, both externally and internally. Try these tips for strengthened hair and clear skin –

• Apply virgin coconut oil or cold-pressed oil to your hair for moisture and to tame baby hair.
• In winters and for people with dry skin should apply little virgin coconut oil on your skin.
• For strong and shiny nails, apply cold-pressed coconut oil on your cuticles every week.
• To remove makeup, apply virgin coconut oil to your face and then cleanse with a mild face wash.

Coconut Recipes

Try out some classic coconut dishes, which are bound to make you want for more –

• Coconut Laddu 

A traditional recipe, coconut laddus are simple to make and extremely delicious. There are many variants to make this recipe. You can use desiccated or frozen coconut, jaggery or sugar and milk of choice. In a pan, take desiccated coconut, add milk, sugar and mix well. Now keep this batter set aside for 15 minutes. Turn the flame on and start cooking this mix, ensure to keep stirring to avoid burning. After the moisture is evaporated add crushed nuts and cardamom powder. Switch off the flame and let it rest till it cools down. Take out small portions of the batter and roll them into balls. Store them in an airtight jar and refrigerate before consuming.

• Coconut Chutney

Classic chutney complimented with dosa and idlis, coconut chutney can be prepared in a jiffy with basic ingredients. In a mixer, add coconut, roasted gram, chilies, cumin, ginger, garlic, salt, and blend. For the tempering, heat oil in a pan and crackle mustard seeds, curry leaves, red chilies, and asafetida and pour it on the chutney. Serve with dosa, idlis, or vadas.

• Vegetable Stew

Vegetable stew is a comfort recipe and a wholesome meal for dinner. In a pot, heat coconut oil, and add crushed spices like cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, and black pepper. Once they release the aroma, add sliced onions, ginger garlic juliennes, and green chilies. Add chopped vegetables of choice (preferably seasonal like potatoes, carrots, beans, peas). Sauté them well, and add coconut milk. Cover with a lid and cook the veggies till they are tender. Add coconut cream before turning the flame off. Serve hot with appams or rice.