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- The large oval brown husk-covered fruit of the coconut palm tree. Fresh coconuts are available year-round with the peak season being October through December. Once the outer shell is broken the white coconut meat is exposed.
- Coconut is sold as fresh, whole coconut or as processed coconut, sold in cans or bags, or in bulk. It is sold sweetened or unsweetened, shredded, flaked and grated and dried moist or frozen.
- Other coconut products are also sold:
Coconut Water — It is the liquid drawn from the center of the fresh coconut.
Coconut Milk — It is made from water and coconut meat, and is not sweetened.
Coconut Cream — It is a thick syrupy sweetened mixture sometimes known as cream of coconut.
- One medium-sized fresh coconut will yield 3 to 4 cups grated or flaked coconut and 1 cup of liquid. Do not pack tightly when measuring grated or flaked coconut.
- Store fresh whole coconuts at room temperature for up to 1 month. Once a coconut is opened, store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The high oil content of coconut makes it turn rancid rather quickly if not stored properly.
- If unopened, canned coconut can be stored at room temperature for up to 18 months and in plastic bags up to 6 months. Refrigerate both after opening up to 3 — 4 weeks in the refrigerator.
- If shredded, coconut becomes dry, soak it in milk for 30 minutes, then drain off the milk and pat dry with paper towels. You can use the drained milk in recipes or blended drinks within 5 days.
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