Organic desiccated coconut is the dehydrated white meat of a coconut. While it is often used as a fluffy white coating on sweets and desserts, it also has numerous health benefits. When incorporating organic desiccated coconut in your favourite recipes, you get the most out of what it has to offer.
In addition to organic desiccated coconut, shredded coconut and coconut chips are other variations of dehydrated coconut. Due to their diverse size, shape and texture, they offer even more variety for your cooking or baking needs.
The health benefits of coconut are well known, particularly in the regions where they have been cultivated and harvested for many generations. For this reason, the coconut palm is affectionately known as the “Tree of Life”.
Being vegan and dairy free, organic desiccated coconut, shredded coconut and coconut chips are appealing to most health conscious individuals. They are low GI and usually contain no cane sugar. Organic coconut is rich in lauric acid, which is known for its anti-fungal and anti-viral properties. It is also high in good fats that lower cholesterol and is high in dietary fibre.
Organic coconut has a very subtle, yet versatile flavour profile when used in cooking and baking. It complements a wide range of ingredients, from sweet to savoury, such as nuts, chocolate, pumpkin and even prawns!
Organic desiccated coconut has a unique taste, texture and aroma which adds a wonderful new sensory dimension to many dishes. Having a more powdery feel, organic desiccated coconut is also the perfect inclusion in cakes and cupcakes, biscuits and cookies, chocolate desserts, puddings and ice cream.
Shredded coconut has a more coarse consistency, similar to grated cheese. These properties make it a wonderful addition to both sweet and savoury dishes when used as a dressing or garnish. From prawn curries to fruit salad, a sprinkling of shredded coconut creates a subtle depth of flavor and texture. It can also be used when baking cakes, muffins and slices.
Coconut chips are versatile in their own unique way. They are best described as shaved coconut meat. Their unique shape and size make them an excellent snack eaten on their own or mixed with nuts and dried fruits. When roasted with coconut oil and a little salt, they make a healthy yet very tasty and crunchy alternative to potato chips or crackers. Coconut chips can also be added to muesli and granola. Despite this, there’s no doubt that coconut chips can still be a very appealing cake decoration or garnish.
There are many ways to incorporate the delicious yet subtle flavour and texture of organic coconut in your cooking. Choosing which type of coconut – desiccated coconut, shredded coconut or coconut chips – depends on the texture, shape or size that complements the recipe.
There are so many delicious ways to include this life affirming ingredient in your diet, so let organic desiccated coconut be more than just a garnish!
