Top 10 Gifts of the Coconut Tree

culled from:http://www.foodandwine.com

 

1. Coconut Palm Sugar

Yes, sugar is sugar. However, this form of sweetness, made from the sap of the coconut palm, is said to be more nutritious and lower on the glycemic index. Use in recipes as a great substitute for other processed sugars. Try Coconut Secret Raw Coconut Crystals for your sweet tooth fix, that is less likely to spike your blood sugar.

2. Coconut Liquid Aminos

For those who don’t consume soy products, this is a great way to flavor dishes instead of soy sauce. It has a slightly sweeter flavor (which I love), and can be used in any recipe calling for vinegar or soy sauce. My favorite is Coconut Secret Liquid Aminos (when you’re feeling saucy).

3. Coconut Water

I know I’m not the only one who thinks it looks super cool when drinking from a coconut with a straw…right? Coconut water is the new (or more like original) super-hydrating gatorade for athletes and health fanatics alike. With its high concentration of electrolytes, low calories, and 4 times the potassium of a banana – coconut water is flying off the shelves (with good reason).

4. Coconut Oil

The uses for coconut oil are innumerable! It’s been used for centuries to improve the health of the skin, hair, the brain, joints, heart, immune and digestive systems in every culture that coconut palms are prevalent. The oil from this giant drupe is definitely in the superfood category.
Lauric acid, the medium chain fatty acid (MCFA) found in coconuts is a unique saturated fat, which is found in mother’s milk. It helps to promote and support a healthy immune system in growing babies. Coconut happens to be the highest source of lauric acid in the plant kingdom.
I think there may be over 1,000 uses for coconut oil listed on the Internet. From deodorant to toothpaste and externally as a moisturizer to internally for a health boost.

5. Coconut Milk

This is my new favorite addition to smoothies. Coconut milk is a great milk and soymilk substitute and is used in many popular curry dishes. Coconut milk has been said to calm the nerves, strengthen bones, regulate blood sugar, lower cholesterol, relieve arthritis, and is great for the skin and hair.

6. Shredded Coconut and Coconut Meat

Adding shredded coconut to dishes gives it a chewy crunch and sweet depth of flavor. I’ve even tried coconut chips that are surprisingly delightful. Try sprinkling these into your baked goods or atop a salad to give it a tropical feel.
One of my kid’s favorite desserts consists of scraping out the coconut meat and sprinkling on cinnamon (that’s it!) Coconut meat is high in those ever popular medium chain fatty acids, fiber, manganese, copper and potassium, so get your scoop on!

7. Coconut Cream

Coconut cream is a culinary delicacy, in my opinion. It can be used in any recipe calling for heavy cream. It offers lots of good fiber, a high mineral content, and is rich in B vitamins, vitamin C, and vitamin E. You can use it like a whipped cream or place a dollop over some fresh berries..mmm.

8. Coconut Vinegar

Similar in composition to Apple Cider Vinegar, the coconut’s fermented vinegar may be the new “healthy” vinegar. With high sources of minerals and amino acids, and low glycemic index – makes it a good choice for diabetics. Use it in salad dressing or taken as a pungent shot for great health.

9. Coconut Flour

The flour from the coconut is perfect for baking and as a substitute for grain flours for the strict paleo. The flour is light and fluffy and doesn’t have the hard or chewy texture you would expect from a grain-free dessert.
Here’s one of my favorite recipes that is chocked full of delicious coconut. It’s a real crowd-pleaser for everyone in the family too!

10. Coconut Butter

I can seriously eat this stuff straight out the jar. Use as a spread on toast or atop your favorite muffin, or simply eat from the jar. The yum factor is off the charts!
Read also – 10 Delicious Gluten-Free Desserts
The coconut palm is officially my new favorite tree. From root to fruit (or drupe), the healing properties of this tree are countless. It’s easy to see why it has been revered through the ages as a food staple and precious, sacred offering.