With all of the health warnings about fats and oils, it can be difficult to know just what we should be using when cooking. Coconut oil has become the one healthy fat that most experts are saying will stand the test of time for our health. But if you do not know how to cook with it, it can be a bit different. So here are some tips you can use.
How to Cook With Coconut Oil
Some things to know
First off, many people hesitate to use coconut oil because they think that the flavor will take away from the food they are preparing or using it in. While for some there is a slight coconut flavor, for me personally, it is so subtle, I usually do not notice it.
Secondly, Most coconut oils come in a solid, but to use it as a liquid all you need to do is warm the oil first. 1 cup of solid oil will equal approximately 1 cup of liquid.
So how do you use this interesting ingredient?
It is an excellent oil to use for many different types of cooking. It stands up to heat well and blends beautifully with many flavors.
Sauteing – Sauteed veggies are so good in coconut oil. Spinach, zucchini, summer squashes and similar veggies can be softly sauteed and finished with a sprinkling of sea salt. Perfect for a side dish
Stir Fry is at its best when using coconut oil. Beef and broccoli – Chicken and veggies – Shrimp and veggies. Just thinking about it is making my mouth water.
Pan Fry – Pan frying and searing a beautiful piece of fish is simple and the flavor is awesome too. Some Lemon Pepper and Sea Salt is all you need. Works for chicken breasts and other meats too. Your eggs come out delicious too!
Baking – You can replace butter and liquid oils in your baked goods. Muffins are especially good. Cakes come out full of flavor and moisture.
If you have been thinking about trying coconut oil but have not been sure about how to use it, now you can. Look for it in large container in the health food section or in discount stores, like Costco, for the purest, organic form of coconut. Let us know how you enjoy using this healthier fat in your cooking.
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You just interested me into trying coconut oil. I never realized their were that many ways to cook with it. I thought only for Baking. Which is a great Idea to cut out some of the unhealthy ingredients. I am hoping they sell it in a regular super market. There are no Health stores around here. Thankyou for sharing this Healthy tip.
I’ve had a jar of coconut oil for almost a year but haven’t used it yet. Don’t ask me why–I guess because it’s just so new to me. Thanks for these tips. Now I have no excuse for not pulling that jar from the shelf!
I have coconut oil and have used it a little bit in baking. I am going to try to stir-fry veggies next time.
I hadn’t even thought about using coconut oil. I just assumed it would make everything taste like coconut! I’ll try it out.
I love sauteing all my veggies in coconut oil. I have my gallon container almost finished. It lasted a long time and didn’t go bad.
This is very helpful. I haven’t used it yet.
I have never cooked with coconut oil but I would love to give it a try. Thank you for sharing this post.