Obsessed with coconut? You’re not alone! These days it seems like everyone is going, well nuts, for the tropical treat.
Chances are you’ve tried coconut oil. You’ve also probably helped yourself to a refreshing glass of coconut water—and a generous slice of coconut cream pie. But you can’t claim to be crazy for coconut unless you cross these 10 exciting products off your tropical to-try list.
1. Coconut flour
Rich in protein, fiber and healthy fats, coconut flour is a delicious, nutritious, gluten-free alternative to grain flour. Made from dried, ground coconut “meat,” this flour works well in both sweet and savory recipes. Try it in breads, cookies, muffins and other baked goods, or use to thicken gravy, soups and stews, bind meatloaf and form faux pizza crust.
2. Coconut sugar
Searching for a healthy sugar substitute? Consider adding coconut sugar to your diet regimen. Packed with essential vitamins and minerals, like potassium, magnesium and several B vitamins, coconut sugar boasts a lower glycemic index than agave, honey and cane sugar, and is a great addition to your favorite dessert recipes.
3. Coconut butter
Step aside nut butters. There’s a sweet new spread in town! Made from dried coconut meat, this rich, creamy superfood is ideal in sauces, smoothies and desserts. Enjoy coconut butter at room temperature or heated—the choice is yours!
4. Coconut milk
Want to lend creamy richness to your favorite recipes? Try adding some coconut milk to beverages, soups, sauces, curries and desserts. You’ll immediately see why it’s a staple in Asian cuisine!
5. Coconut chips
Crunchy, sweet and satisfying, coconut chips make a super standalone snack. Or, toss the tasty toasted coconut meat into trail mix or atop salads, cereal, smoothies, yogurt, froyo or ice cream. Imagine the possibilities!
6. Coconut popcorn
Coconut is popping up everywhere—even in popcorn! Coconut oil gives this popular snack food a tropical twist that will keep you coming back for more. Good thing it’s so low in calories!
7. Coconut candy
Coconut candy is nothing new. But now there are many more types of coconut candy to choose from. So, it’s okay to be discerning. Try these toasted coconut dark chocolate candies if you’re in the mood for a tropical treat that’s “mind-blowingly delicious.”
8. Coconut soap
Coconut soap is a must for those who can’t get enough of all things coconut. In addition to its subtle tropical scent and hydrating benefits, coconut soap is chock-full of welcome antioxidants (a.k.a. defenders against aging). Plus, it will rid your skin of dirt, dead skin cells and other impurities with ease.
9. Coconut lotion
We’ve already addressed the alluring fragrance and nourishing properties of coconut. Therefore, it should come as no surprise that we’re singing the praises of coconut lotion. Think light beachy scent and “velvety soft” skin. Yes, please!
10. Coconut shampoo
The last item on the list: coconut shampoo. Truly a treat for your tresses, this must-try shampoo uses high-fat, protein-rich coconut milk to lock in moisture, strengthen strands and reduce breakage. Plus, it smells heavenly, to boot!
