Written By Guest Writer Edibles / One ingredient May 14, 2012

All Things Coconut: flour, oil, milk, and now coconut water

Coconut water, oil and flour from Planet Organic. Photo by Ellie Shortt

Coconut flour, coconut oil, coconut milk, and now coconut water: everyone, everywhere seems to be going nuts over coconuts. If you too are a fan of this tropical treat, then you’re in luck, because whether in its liquid, solid or powdered form, this illustrious ingredient is a healthier choice than many of its alternatives. Coconut flour is an excellent high-fibre and low carbohydrate alternative to wheat, and has proven to be a great option for gluten free baking. It can be used to make breads, cakes, pies, and other baked goods by using 15 – 25% in place of other flours in standard recipes, or simply use 100% coconut flour for a slightly more dense, but definitely delicious and completely gluten-free dish. Coconut milk is also a great alternative for those with dietary sensitivities when used in place of regular cows milk and other dairy products such as yogurt and ice cream. Coconut oil has also burst onto the scene as a low-cal option for cooking and baking, but in addition to this, can double as a fantastic moisturizer for hair and skin.

The latest contender of the coconut craze is the extremely hydrating coconut water, which is naturally low in carbohydrates and sugars, and 99% fat free. Some are even praising it for its immune system and metabolism boosting properties, as well as its ability to promote weight loss, detoxify and cleanse the digestive tract, facilitate circulation and fight a number of other health issues. In addition, many are claiming coconut water to be the ultimate hangover cure. A local nightclub, Upstairs Cabaret, is selling Cocos Pure coconut water to patrons as a pre-emptive measure to help reduce the effects of many partygoers’ “24 hour flu.” Some other local spots have been riding the coconut train for a while now by integrating coconut-y ingredients in some of their most popular dishes. The Tapa Bar’s grilled kale is a top seller with a coconut milk, cayenne and lemon marinade, giving this dish its creamy and smoky flavour. The Marina Restaurant plans on incorporating coconut flour into some of their well-loved desserts, and of course, many Thai restaurants like Victoria’s Baan Thai and SookJai Thai use coconut milk in a number of their curries.

If you’d like to get your hands on this versatile ingredient, check out the stores below :

Lifestyle Markets, 2950 Douglas Street. (250) 384-3388 www.lifestylemarkets.com

Coconut oil

Coconut water

Coconut flour

Coconut milk

Planet Organic, 3995 Quadra Street. (250) 727-9888 www.planetorganic.ca

Coconut oil

Coconut water

Coconut milk

Coconut flour

Market on Yates, 903 Yates Street, Victoria. (250) 381-6000 www.themarketstores.com