Some may already know the difference between desiccated coconut and coconut flour by shape. However, there are many similarities between desiccated coconut and coconut flour, especially in nutritional content. Both coconut products have equally good benefits when used as a composition of food products. Here are the differences between desiccated coconut and coconut flour that you need to know before using them in your food recipes.
Desiccated Coconut or dry-grated coconut is coconut flesh that has been grated, dried, and often ground into small pieces. The texture tends to be fibrous and has a strong coconut flavor. The purpose of dehydrating the water content in desiccated coconut is to make the coconut flakes dry and crispier. In addition, because the water content has been dehydrated, the shelf life of desiccated coconut can be much longer than wet grated coconut. Desiccated coconut is often used as a topping for various foods such as cakes, puddings, or granola.
Coconut Flour or coconut flour is made from coconut flesh that has been dried, grated, and then ground into a fine powder/flour. The texture is smoother than desiccated coconut and the color tends to be thicker, and slightly creamy. This is because coconut flour is not refined or fortified, so it has a natural color. Coconut flour has a high fiber content and is low in carbohydrates, so it is often used as an alternative to wheat flour in low-carb or gluten-free foods.
Difference between desiccated coconut and coconut flour
Features | Desiccated Coconut | Coconut Flour |
Texture | Coarse, fibrous | Smooth, flour-like |
Use | Topping, sprinkle, or dough mixture | Wheat flour substitute in baking, main ingredient |
Content | High Fiber | Very high |
Fat Content | Higher (Except Low-fat Desiccated Coconut) | Lower |
Use in Cooking
- Desiccated Coconut: More suitable for use as a topping for cakes, puddings, or granola. It can also be added to bread or cake dough to provide a stronger coconut flavor. The texture of food that uses desiccated coconut will also have a unique character because there is a sensation of coconut flakes in it.
- Coconut Flour: Used as a substitute for wheat flour in making bread, cakes, pancakes, and muffins. Coconut flour can produce a harder and crispier food texture if not combined with eggs or liquid milk. This is because of its high fiber content, usually, it is necessary to adjust the amount of liquid in the recipe for use.
Conclusion
Both desiccated coconut and coconut flour come from coconut meat and have good benefits as food compositions. However, both have different characteristics and uses. Desiccated coconut is better for adding flavor and texture to food, while coconut flour is better used as a substitute for wheat flour. Which one is right for you depends on the food recipes you want to make and the nutritional goals you want to achieve.