What is that one fruit/vegetable which comes to your mind, when someone utters the word 'mutli-purpose'? Is it 'coconut', because yes it is that fruit which can probably fit in all shoes and solve different purposes.
Majorly grown in tropical regions, you can witness its presence almost everywhere, in every house and resort you see. Therefore, it won't be wrong to say that the lives of people there kind of revolves around coconut. From the food, they eat to the beverages they drink. Household utensils, baskets, cooking oil, furniture, and cosmetics all come from the coconut tree.
To put it in simple words, there are as many coconut trees present in that region, which even is not the count of members in a family.
Coconut as food
Though there might be many spices or ingredients in a dish that keeps it intact, there are a few which are meant to stand out, and sometimes be the 'core' ingredient for a recipe itself.
Unlike coriander or salt, which just enhance the taste of our food, there is an ingredient called 'coconut', which not only compliments its co-existing elements in a dish if needed, but also can take up the lead role.
Majorly used in the South region, coconut is known to be the 'hero' ingredient of any dish. Let us see what all can we cook, to please our taste buds with coconut:
Coconut rice: If you have ever had a trip to the Southern region of India, or you frequently visit a South Indian restaurant, you might have tried this cuisine at least once. Subtle in taste, crunchy in texture – this is the most common dish in South Indian households.
Coconut chutney: Often had with Idly and Vada, this is a cuisinyou probably might have not missed by now, but if you have then please eat it right away.
Coconut ladoo: Like you eat those yellow big ladoos, coconut replaces besan and motichoor in South India. Being used in prayers, to distribute when sharing good news – this dessert is the most favourite one of people living in that region.
Coconut muffins: Just like everyone giving a contemporary twist to old ingredients, even coconut got a makeover when infused in a muffin. Before thinking of how it tastes, just go for it and discover yourself.
Coconut curry: As we Indians are very fond of making a curry out of everything, coconut even is no exception. So apart from all the different uses of this fruit, it is also made as a very basic curry served with rice. I am sure it might not taste like rajma or butter chicken, but it is a delicious meal to try.
Coconut milk: Not that common in North Indian households, but yes this highly nutritious type of milk also exists.
Coconut as water
How many times have you been ill, and been asked to drink coconut water? So, it is a very commonly found beverage even on the streets of North India. It has a long list of benefits and a very refreshing taste. People say it is best to fight dehydration.
And, apart from its very basic nature, it can also be amalgamated with different things and transformed into a cocktail or mocktail. I am sure such drinks are being served in South Indian bars playing Rajnikanth music, have you been there?
Coconut as oil
Not only does it taste well when used in food, or gives a refreshing after taste when sipped with straw – experts say that coconut 'oil' benefits are healthier than that of mustard oil, and also helps to digest food faster.
Among the health and other benefits of the oil, aids you in managing your weight, supports your immune system health, promotes a healthy metabolism, keeps your skin healthy and youthful-looking supports proper functioning of your thyroid gland.
Changing food habits have led to many benefit health problems. According to experts, coconut oil can help avoid such complications.
Also, coconut oil is beneficial as an immediate source of energy, and is light on the liver as well. It is considered very healthy due to the high fiber and nutritional contents. Also, it has anti-microbial properties, which help prevent indigestion.
Helps fight diabetes, manage and balance blood sugar, and is effective for eliminating cravings. Nourishing for the brain improves cognitive function, and stalls or even reverses neurodegenerative diseases in their early stages, such as Alzheimer's disease. Also, it reduces the risk of heart disease.
Apart from the health benefits, coconut oil is also a perfect moisturiser, makeup remover, massage oil, deep hair conditioner, bug repellent, sunscreen, and great for wrinkles and aged skin. For medical purposes, it helps in healing antidote for burns, scrapes, cuts, eczema, psoriasis, and dermatitis.