Share
The versatile and healthy coconut is celebrated every year on September 2nd, World Coconut Day. From culinary creations to beauty hacks, this tropical gem never fails to amaze. Amid the coconut's myriad uses, coconut butter emerges as a standout, especially for vegans seeking a healthy alternative. This creamy and rich butter, crafted from pureed coconut, offers a luscious taste and a wealth of nutrients. Its velvety texture and natural sweetness make it a versatile ingredient in vegan recipes, replacing dairy butter or spreads. Dive into the world of coconut butter to explore its benefits, and culinary applications, and learn how to craft this plant-based delight from scratch.
Coconut butter is a creamy, plant-based spread made from pureed coconut flesh. Unlike coconut oil, which is extracted from the coconut's fat, coconut butter includes the meaty, fibrous part. It boasts a velvety texture and a rich, subtly sweet flavor. Packed with natural nutrients like healthy fats, fiber, and essential minerals, coconut butter offers a nourishing alternative to traditional dairy-based spreads. It's versatile in both sweet and savory dishes, adding depth and creaminess.
Health Benefits
Coconut butter has a healthy fat called medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) that the body can use fast for energy. This fat aids in weight loss and provides steady stamina.
It's a source of essential nutrients like fiber, vitamins (such as vitamin E), and minerals (like iron and magnesium), contributing to overall well-being and proper bodily functions.
The high fibre content of coconut butter promotes good digestion, assists in the regulation of bowel movements, and contributes to the development of a gut flora that is in balance.
Coconut butter contains vitamin E and good fats, both of which hydrate the skin and may be beneficial to the health of the hair.
Coconut butter is an adaptable replacement for dairy-based spreads that is excellent for vegans, individuals with lactose sensitivity, and people looking for plant-based alternatives.
Recipe
Ingredients:
3-4 cups desiccated (or shredded) unsweetened coconut
1 pinch salt (optional)
½ tsp pure vanilla extract (optional)
1 dash stevia (optional)
Method:
Shred 3 cups (or 240 grammes) of coconut and place it in a food processor. Shredded coconut can be added to a food processor with a higher capacity (more than 7 or 8 cups) to achieve a fine enough consistency for "butter." It is also important to have a high-quality food processor.
Blend for as long as necessary (up to 10 minutes), scraping down the sides as necessary, until a smooth butter emerges. Add seasonings like salt, vanilla extract, or stevia until it has become a liquid and creamy consistency.
Keep for up to two weeks at room temperature (occasionally longer). Once cooled, it may harden depending on the temperature in your house. You may either microwave it or put it in a shallow pot of very hot water to soften it before using it. Alternatively, you may scoop it out and use it as a topping for hot food, where it will melt quickly.
