Coconut: The Swiss Army Knife of Fruits

In a sea of “superfoods”, one stands out among the rest. Coconut is everywhere these days but this is not without good reason. Every day, people are finding more and more uses for this tropical gem. It is used for health, cooking, or even beauty products/skin care. It really does seem to be the swiss army knife of fruits.

Cute as a Coconut

Now you’re probably wondering, “How could coconut be a beauty product?” Well, coconut can be made into things like lotion, facial scrubs, and even hair masks. The common theme between these is they all revitalize whatever they’re used on, so looking good has never been easier! Not to mention, healthier.

Tastes Much Better Than Mouthwash

Coconut actually has many healthy qualities beyond simply nutrition. Keeping some coconut oil in your mouth for 15 mins and spitting it out has a greater effect than most mouthwashes. Not to mention, the MCTs in coconut oil help fuel your brain, as an alternative for glucose, that the brain and nervous system can still function on. It even contains lauric acid, which is believed to have anti-fungal, antiviral, and antibacterial properties.

Sweeten Your Day With Coconut

Satisfy your sweet tooth with this moist and decadent coconut cake. Coconut cake is quick and easier to make than you might think. Perfect for any party or get together, it’s also rich without being overpowering. Simple and easy to make, it’s my personal go-to dessert. Perfect for those who want a sweet treat, without the hassle and cost.

Ingredients
1 cup flaked or shredded coconut
3/4 cup sugar
1/2 cup Original Bisquick™ mix
1/4 cup butter or margarine, softened
2 cups milk
1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla
4 eggs

Click here for the full recipe and instructions. Top your slice with some sweetened condensed milk to take this cake to the next level. It’s simple, but worth not overlooking. However, one of the best parts of this cake is it’s simplicity. Try out diffrent toppings, and have fun with it!

Cooking with Coconut

Aside from its health benefits, coconut oil is super useful in cooking. During a series of tests, it was found that even after 8 hours of continual frying, its quality does not deteriorate. This makes it the best choice when it comes to frying. Not to mention, over 90% of the fatty acids in coconut oil are saturated, which makes it very resistant to heat. Saturated fats have always been considered something to avoid, but new studies show that they are a completely harmless source of energy for humans.

Keeping it Savory With Coconut

If sweet and savory is your game, try utilizing shredded coconut. Use shredded coconut as the breading for chicken strips. Perfectly crisp, and not overpoweringly sweet, this healthy alternative to bread crumbs taste amazing. The shredded coconut plays nicely with the chicken, giving the perfect amount of sweet/savory. And at only 14 grams of sugar, it’s perfect for health-minded folks and foodies alike!

Ingredients
1/4 cup Gold Medal® all-purpose flour
1 egg
1/2 cup sweetened coconut
3/4 cup Progresso® plain panko crispy bread crumbs
Salt and pepper to taste
1 1/4 lbs chicken tenders
3/4 cup prepared mango chutney
6 tablespoons sour cream

Click here for the full recipe and instructions. Enjoy these strips alongside some mango chutney! We love the added freshness and depth it provides. It also adds a vibrancy to the dish that would definitely be missed without its inclusion on the plate.

Breakfast of Champions

If you thought the coconut cake was easy to make, this yogurt is going to blow you away.  With only 2 ingredients, a cheesecloth, and a jar; amazing-tasting yogurt is at your fingertips. No matter your diet restrictions, as long as you’re fine with coconut, you can enjoy this tasty treat whenever. It tastes almost exactly like greek yogurt, without the dairy. Perfect for those who enjoy the taste of yogurt, but not the dairy

Ingredients
1 14-ounce can of full-fat coconut oil
1 vegan-friendly probiotic

Click here for the full recipe and instructions. Enjoy this dish with anything your heart desires. Yogurt is a wonderful meal that allows for endless creativity. However, I personally enjoy maple syrup, fruit, or a nice fruit compote

Use It for Everything

For a natural approach to health and beauty that your body will thank you for, pick up some up. Coconut is one of the few things that can be used for almost everything.  All it takes is a bit of research, and you’re good to go. Now I’m not saying you need to replace everything in your house with the stuff, but I am saying you can.