"YOUR ATTITUDE, NOT YOUR APTITUDE, WILL DETERMINE YOUR ALTITUDE"

Selection and storage

Fresh tender coconuts can be readily available in the markets, in tropical countries year around. However, they require importation into the semitropical and cold regions. Nowadays, however, ready to use prepared tender coconuts imported from Thailand and Malaysia are easily available in the USA, European Union, and Canada.

In the stores, coconut water sold in packets, and bottles. However, their overall nutritional profile may not be the same and upto the mark in terms of vitamins and enzyme levels, since some kind of additives and preservative added in order to enhance shelf life.

At home, raw 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 inside the refrigerator if not used immediately.

Preparation and Serving Tips

To prepare, using a long sickle, cut open its outer layer (exocarp) either at the top or bottom end and cut open the inner hard shell to expose cavity hoding coconut water. Some sort of expertise and caution are required to avoid injuries. Its water is then sipped using a straw. Otherwise, the whole nut is tilted upside down to transfer its water into wide mouthed bottle or bowl.

• Enjoy the coconut drink without any additions.
• Iced coconut water can be a refreshing drink.
• Fresh water can be made special drink adding lemon slices, mint leaves, orange zest, etc.
• Its gel-like meat (kernel) inside the young tender coconuts is very sweet and delicious.