Coconuts are one of the most sustainable crops in the world; every part of the coconut can be used in one way or another:
Coconut water (The clear liquid found inside green coconuts) this is enjoyed on beaches as a refreshing drink. Also known as a natural sports drink, many athletes are drinking after exercise for its rehydration properties. Coconut water is also used in cooking, deserts, smoothies and mixed with or without alcohol for a refreshing cocktail. Coconut water when fermented is used to make coconut vinegar and alcohol.
Coconut husk is used to make coir a kind of eco friendly rope used extensively in the tropics.
The outer shell of the coconut is used as a source of fuel or charcoal. Coconut shells are also polished and sold as souvenirs or accessories like purses, jewellery, candle holders, etc.
The outer shell of the coconut is used as a source of fuel or charcoal. Coconut shells are also polished and sold as souvenirs or accessories like purses, jewellery, candle holders, etc.
Coconut meat (The white flesh that is found inside mature brown coconuts) is edible raw or used in cooking for vegetarian and non vegetarian curries. Young coconut meat known as coconut jelly is eaten raw or mixed with coconut water to make smoothies.
Coconut milk The white cloudy liquid extracted from the coconut meat from a mature coconut) is often used in cooking, most commonly in curries. If you leave coconut milk to settle the liquid would set to the bottom and you would find a thick creamy layer on top, this is known as coconut cream. This is used in cocktails e.g. Pina Colada.
Coconut oil (The pale yellow to almost clear liquid extracted from the coconut meat or coconut milk) is most commonly used for cooking at high temperatures in frying. It is also used in other types of cooking and mostly in skin and hair products. For its moisturizing qualities for example in shampoo, conditioner, creams etc.
Coconuts are used in tradition and religion as well as every day uses, for example:
In the San Pablo on the second week of January the Coconut Festival is held for a week. This is in honour of their patron saint Paul the Hermit, the festival consists of street dancing, concerts etc.
In the Hindu tradition the coconut is offered during worship to gods or goddess once is has been decorated. During Hindu weddings a coconut is also placed on a pot representing a womb and coconut flowers are present during the marriage ceremony.
During the Thai festival called Songkran (Held on over New Years Day in April which goes on for 3 days). Coconut milk and Tart Lemon grass is used to make Thai Coconut Lemongrass ritual to honour Thailand’s joyful festival of renewal.
Coconuts are also used as a prize and target in a British traditional fairground game known as “coconut shy” this is where you knock the coconut off of the stand to win the coconut its self.
