Selection and storage
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| Tender coconuts- ready to drink! |
Fresh tender coconuts can be readily available in the markets in tropical regions year-round. However, they require importation into the semitropical and cold regions. Nowadays, ready-to-use tender coconuts, imported from Thailand and Malaysia, can be easily available in
the USA, European Union, and Canada.
In the supermarkets, coconut water is also sold in packs and bottles as well. However, its overall nutritional profile may not be the same and up to the mark in terms of vitamins and enzyme levels, since some additives and preservatives are added to enhance shelf life.
At home, fresh tender coconuts can be kept at room temperature for about 5-10 days. Once opened, its liquid soon turns sour and off-flavored due to intense enzymatic activity. Instead, store it in the refrigerator, if not used immediately.
Preparation and serving tips
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| Refreshing coconut drink. | Iced coconut juice with tender coconut meat topping. Photo courtesy: Andrew currie. |
To prepare, use a long sickle to cut open its thick, outer layer (exocarp), either at the top or bottom end, and break the hard inner shell to expose the endocarp (inner cavity) holding coconut water. You should be careful if you are doing it yourself. Some skills and expertise are needed to do this job and to avoid injuries.
To enjoy its refreshing water, use a straw. Otherwise, the whole fruit is turned upside down to transfer its water into a wide-mouthed bottle or bowl.
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Enjoy the coconut drink without any additions.
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Iced coconut water can be a refreshing drink.
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Fresh water can be made special drink adding lemon slices, mint leaves, and orange zest.
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Its gel-like meat (kernel) inside the young tender coconuts is very sweet and delicious.
Safety profile
Coconut water is a universally appealing drink. There are no known reactions of any sort notified so far after its consumption. It is not only
cherished in healthy but also considered safe in pregnancy, infants as well as in illness conditions like diarrhea. (Medical disclaimer).
Note:
The discussion on this page is solely dedicated to water (liquid) or solution of tender coconuts, and not about Coconut milk, Coconut meat, Coconut oil or any products of the coconut tree.
Coconut water is a universally appealing, pleasant drink. It composes many naturally-occurring bioactive enzymes, simple sugars, electrolytes, and vitamins. It is not only cherished among healthy but also considered safe in pregnancy, infants as well as in some diseases.
Also read ≻≻-
≻≻-Coconut nutrition facts.
≻≻-Coconut milk nutrition facts.
≻≻-Coconut oil nutrition facts.
≻≻-Back to Home page from Coconut water.
Further Resources:
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Coconut Research center- PDF.
