Crazy for coconut: three popular products

The appetite for all things coconut seems insatiable. For evidence, just look at our grocery shelves, where you’ll find coconut water; coconut oil; coconut flour; coconut chips; coconut milk, yogurt, and ice cream; even raw coconut vinegar.

While coconut’s versatility may seem new, it’s part of the daily diet of many cultures, where every part of the coconut is transformed into something practical or delicious. Here are some of the most popular coconut products (and, don’t miss our favorites!).

Tip: Fresh, moist and sweet coconut meat makes a delightful, fiber-rich snack.

Organic coconut oil

Rich, creamy and solid at room temperature, this oil is expressed from coconut meat and lauded for its wide-ranging health benefits (learn more in our Ask the Nutritionist podcast).

It’s a delightful, vegan alternative for baking, generating flaky pie crusts and fluffy frosting, and it works well in stir-fries. It also is handy as a salve for dry skin, to season cast-iron skillets and so much more.

Tip: Organic coconut oil makes a fragrant nondairy alternative for medium heat baking, sautéing, curries and soups.

Coconut milk

This creamy delight is pressed from grated or pureed coconut flesh and can be used in place of dairy or other alternative milks in smoothies, curries and desserts, and it also makes fantastic nondairy whipped cream.

Tip: Creamy coconut milk is a cooking staple in tropical climes. Choose from classic or light (lower fat) varieties.

Coconut water

Athletes rave that this liquid harvested from young coconuts is nature’s source of electrolytes and potassium, great for post-workout recovery. Best served chilled.

Tip: Organic coconut oil makes a fragrant nondairy alternative for medium heat baking, sautéing, curries and soups.

Ideas for leftover coconut milk

… because there’s always that little bit left!

• Freeze it into Coconut Berry Popsicles.

• Simmer with whole grains for a hearty breakfast.

• Combine with ripe mangoes or pineapple for a tropical smoothie. Add greens for nutritional oomph.

• Whip up Coconut Rice with Cilantro to go with items on the grill.

• Create a simple dessert, like Fragrant Bananas in Coconut Cream.

• Make Spring Vegetables in Green Curry and Coconut Milk.