What Is Coconut Water?
Coconut water is the clear, mildly sweet natural liquid inside a young green coconut. It flows out when the hard shell is cracked or pierced and can be drunk as a refreshing beverage.
It is colorless to slightly cloudy, thin in consistency, and low in calories. Although often confused, it is entirely different from coconut milk: milk is a thick, oily product made by blending the white flesh of a mature coconut with water, while coconut water is the natural liquid inside the coconut.
Coconut Water Nutrition Facts
Plain coconut water is a low-calorie, very low-fat drink that contains approximately 19 kcal of energy per 100 ml and is rich in potassium; it consists mostly of water. Values vary with the maturity of the coconut and are approximate.
How Should Coconut Water Be Consumed?
Coconut water can be part of daily fluid intake as a refreshing, low-calorie drink; plain varieties with little added sugar may be preferred. It can be included as part of a balanced diet.
This is general information. Coconut water is a beverage and is not a substitute for medical treatment.
How to Choose Coconut Water
Good coconut water is either fresh from the coconut or a packaged product with a simple ingredient list and little added sugar. Avoid products that are very sweet, flavored, or cloudy with a sour smell.
- The ingredients should be simple and added sugar low.
- Fresh coconut water should be clear and mildly sweet.
- Do not buy products with a sour smell or signs of spoilage.
How to Store Coconut Water
Drink coconut water taken from a fresh coconut immediately; refrigerate opened packages or fresh coconut water and use it soon because it spoils quickly at room temperature. Store unopened packages according to the label.
Using Coconut Water in the Kitchen
Coconut water is most often used as a drink, in smoothies and refreshing beverages, and in some rice dishes and desserts to add mild sweetness and aroma. It is not a substitute for milk because it does not provide fat or creaminess.
What Is the Difference Between Coconut Water and Coconut Milk?
Coconut water is the clear, low-fat natural liquid inside a young coconut; coconut milk is a thick, rich product made by blending and straining the white flesh of a mature coconut with water. They have different uses.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does coconut water contain potassium?
The natural liquid inside the coconut contains minerals, especially potassium; that is why coconut water is a drink rich in potassium.
Is coconut water sweet?
Fresh coconut water from a young coconut is mildly sweet and refreshing; check the label because some packaged products may contain added sugar.
Can coconut water be used instead of milk?
No. It does not replace milk because it does not provide fat or creaminess. Use coconut milk in recipes that call for milk.