How to Make a Perfect Toasted Desiccated Coconut?

What Is Toasted Desiccated Coconut?

Toasted desiccated coconut originates from mature coconuts, where the meat is extracted, grated, and then dried. 

This drying process, often done under controlled conditions, ensures that the coconut retains its nutty essence while achieving a delightful, crispy texture.

How to Make Toasted Desiccated Coconut

If you’re a fan of coconut, toasted desiccated coconut is a delightful addition to your culinary experience. Whether you want to use it as a garnish for desserts or an ingredient in your favorite recipes, toasted desiccated coconut is an option for you. 

Making toasted desiccated coconut is pretty simple. You can easily make it at home. For further explanation, check this out!

1. Preparing The Desiccated Coconut

Ingredients and Equipment

• One whole coconut
• Grater or food processor
• Baking sheet
• Oven/Microwave/Stove/Air Fryer
• Parchment paper
• Knife
• Bowl

Instructions

Before getting into the toasting process, first you need to prepare the desiccated coconut. You can make it by yourself or just buy the desiccated coconut from the store or coconut products supplier such as Sari Coconut.

If you want to make it by your own, here’s the process on how to make the desiccated coconut:

1. First you need to choose the right coconut. Look for one that feels heavy for its size and has no visible cracks. You should also be able to hear the sloshing of coconut water inside when you shake it.
2. Start by cracking the coconut open. Use a knife or a cleaver to carefully strike the coconut along its equator. It may take a few firm strikes to crack it open.
3. Hold the cracked coconut over a bowl to collect the coconut water. This water is refreshing and can be used in smoothies or enjoyed as is.
4. Once the coconut is drained, use a knife to pry the white flesh away from the shell. Be gentle to avoid any brown bits, as they can make the coconut taste bitter.
5. Now that you have the coconut flesh, it’s time to shred it. Use a grater or a food processor to grate the coconut flesh. You can choose between fine or coarse shreds, depending on your preference.
6. After shredding, spread the coconut evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Related Article: 7 Desiccated Coconut Recipes for a Keto Diet Menu

2. Toasting Phase

After you’re done with preparing the coconut, now it’s time for you to move into the toasting process. This process is crucial to make your desiccated coconut taste nutty and has crunch textures.

There are several options you can choose depending on what you have. You can choose between using an oven, microwave, stove and air fryer. Here’s the full explanation of it.

A. With Oven

The first method is making toasted coconut by using the oven. Here’s the further explanations on what you have to do:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Keep a close eye on it, as coconut can toast quickly. Stir it every 2-3 minutes to ensure even toasting.
3. Your toasted desiccated coconut is ready when it turns a beautiful golden brown. This should take about 5-10 minutes.

B. With Microwave

When you’re short on time, using a microwave is a quick way to achieve this. Microwave and oven are quite similar, so their method is pretty much the same. Here’s the further explanations on what you have to do:

1. Use a microwave-safe tray or plate that’s large enough to spread the coconut evenly.
2. Spread a thin layer of desiccated coconut evenly in the dish. It’s important to have a single layer for even toasting.
3. Here’s a general guideline for toasting coconut in the microwave:

• Start with 30 seconds on high power.
• After the first 30 seconds, take the dish out and stir the coconut.
• Continue microwaving in 15 to 30-second intervals, stirring each time, until the coconut turns a golden brown color. This typically takes 1-2 minutes but can vary depending on your microwave’s wattage.

4. Remove from the microwave once coconut has attained the appropriate color and allow to cool.
5. You can add extra flavor to your toasted coconut by sprinkling it with cinnamon, cocoa powder, or a pinch of salt before microwaving.

C. With Stove

This method offers you precise control over the toasting process and is a great option if you don’t have access to an oven or a microwave. Here’s the step-by-step guide:

1. Select a skillet or frying pan with a wide, flat bottom. A non-stick pan works well for even toasting.
2. Spread a thin, even layer of desiccated coconut in the pan. A single layer ensures uniform toasting.
3. Place the pan over medium heat. You have to toast the coconut gradually to achieve an even golden-brown color.
4. Stir the coconut continuously with a spatula or wooden spoon to prevent it from burning. This also ensures an even toasting.
5. Toast the coconut for about 3-5 minutes or until it reaches your desired level of golden-brown color and has a pleasant nutty aroma.
6. When the coconut is golden, take it from the pan and allow it cool. Even with the heat turned off, do not leave it in the pan since it will continue to toast and might cause a burnt.

D. With Air Fryer

If you have an air fryer and are curious whether you can make desiccated coconut from it, yes you can. Using an air fryer for it is quick, efficient, and produces perfectly toasted coconut with a delightful crunch.

Here’s the instructions on how to make toasted desiccated coconut with air fryer:

1. Place the air fryer basket in the air fryer and preheat it to 325°F (160°C) for a few minutes.
2. Spread the desiccated coconut evenly in the basket and set the timer for 3-5 minutes.
3. After 2 minutes, pause the air fryer, shake the basket gently, and check the coconut’s color. Continue cooking for 1-minute or more until it reaches your desired level of toastiness.
4. Then it’s done. Allow the toasted coconut to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. 

Related Article: What are Dry Coconuts, Their Uses, and Derivative Products?

Interested To Consume Toasted Desiccated Coconut?

Making toasted desiccated coconut is pretty easy and convenient. With these simple steps, you can enjoy the versatility of toasted coconut in various recipes.You can also directly add a delightful crunch and coconut flavor to your dishes. 

If you’re currently looking for desiccated coconut, you can purchase it from Sari Coconut. Sari Coconut Indonesia is a reliable company that provides processed coconut products including desiccated coconut. 

You can find the finest quality coconut products at Sari Coconut. Go check their website for further information about the products!

FAQ

1. Can I use regular coconut flakes instead of desiccated coconut?

While you can substitute them in some recipes, desiccated coconut has a drier texture that works better in baking.

2. Is toasted desiccated coconut high in calories?

Like all coconut products, it is calorie-dense, so use it in moderation for a balanced diet.

3. Can I toast desiccated coconut at home?

Absolutely. You can toast it in a dry pan on the stove, oven, microwave or even on an air fryer.

4. Does toasted desiccated coconut contain sugar?

No, it doesn’t contain added sugar. The sweetness usually comes from the natural sugars in coconut. 

5. Where can I buy toasted desiccated coconut?

You can find it in most grocery stores, typically in the baking aisle or you can try to contact coconut products suppliers such as Sari Coconut .