How To Make Coconut Yogurt: 10 Simple Steps With A Video Tutorial
Fermented foods such as Coconut Yogurt are well respected in the gut health world and for good reasons. It is a powerful source of probiotics which are the gold standard for improving your digestive system. Learn how to make coconut yogurt in 10 easy steps (we recommend to watch the video first)
What is Coconut Yogurt?
Historically there have been populations around the world where coconut was the main staple without any occurrence of heart disease <1>. Clinical studies suggest coconut is a highly nutritious functional food that serves a therapeutic role in the diet. Research has shown properties of the coconut to support thyroid function, metabolism, insulin resistance and hypertension <2>.
It is rich in medium chain triglycerides (MCTs), a form of saturated fatty acid that has numerous health benefits. MCTs are an excellent source of fuel since they don’t require energy for absorption, use or storage. Studies have confirmed the potential for their use in reducing body fat and there is also evidence showing other benefits such as its anti-inflammatory effects and support of liver and GI function <3>.
Coconut Yogurt Benefits
The coconut yogurt benefits stem from the diversity of probiotics and MCTS found in this fermented food.
Medium-chain Triglycerides
Scientific research has found evidence for:
- Energy source
- Anti-inflammatory
- Improves liver function
- Supports weight management
Lactic Acid Bacteria
Scientific research has found evidence for:
- Improves digestion
- Enhances Immune System
Making yoghurt with coconuts provides a nutritious, dairy-free alternative to a favourite staple. It is made with the raw meat from young coconuts and a kefir culture starter. The lactic acid producing bacteria found in kefir is able to produce health benefits through the modulation of the gastrointestinal immune system and microbiome. Isolated microbiota from kefir was found to provide many positive benefits when consumed ranging from the potential to alleviate allergies to improving metabolism and immunity <4>.
What Do I Need?
- 1 case of young coconuts (9)
- Approximately 15 ml (1 tbsp) coconut kefir
- Approximately 120 ml (½ c) filtered water
- Glass bowl
- 480 ml (pint) glass jar
- Cloth cover
What Are The 10 Steps To Make Coconut Yogurt
1. Sterilize all surfaces and equipment.
2. Open coconuts and reserve water.
3. Using the back of a spoon remove coconut meat.
4. Transfer meat into a glass bowl with filtered water.
5. Clean woody pieces off of coconut meat.
6. Blend coconut and kefir in high-speed blender slowly adding coconut water for desired consistency.
7. Pour mixture into pint jar.
8. Cover with clean cloth or paper towel and secure with rubber band.
9. Allow to ferment out of direct sunlight with proper airflow for 48 hours. Then Check for taste and either transfer to fridge or allow to ferment a couple more days.
10. Secure lid and transfer to fridge allowing to cool 24 hours before enjoying.