I’m always touting the benefits of coconut oil (I’m never caught without a big tub of the stuff), but it’s been a while since I’ve shared a Tip, Trick, & a Recipe using this wonderful and healthful oil that comes from dried coconut kernels known as copra.
Coconut oil is wonderful for cooking, yes, but its uses far exceed the kitchen. I keep a tub of it in the bathroom too and rub it into my dry elbows and it’s even great for removing eye makeup.
But, let’s go back and touch on some of the many health benefits of this oil for a moment.
Coconut oil has been shown to help our bodies resist bacteria and viruses that can make us sick. This stuff can fight off fungus and yeast, too. You don’t want those nasties running rampant in your body, trust me!
Your hormones are positively affected by coconut, too. Those who regularly take coconut oil tend to have good blood sugar levels, increased metabolism, and more energy and endurance.
Coconut oil can even help your body to make better use of fat-soluble vitamins (vitamins A, D, E, and K).
And if those benefits weren’t enough, a study published in a 2009 edition of the scientific journal Lipids showed that women who ate two tablespoons of coconut oil each day for 12 weeks showed lowered amounts of abdominal fat.
I use coconut oil nearly every time I saute. It’s so good for us! Oh, by the way, coconut oil has a high smoke point so it’s great to cook with. If you haven’t used coconut oil before, you might be surprised to know it is solid at room temperature but melts easily when heated.
Always buy organic, virgin coconut oil. Virgin coconut oil has been less refined than other coconut oils. If your jar of coconut oil does not say virgin, there’s a good chance it is an RBD coconut oil. That stands for Refined, Bleached, and Deodorized. Now, this isn’t as horrible as it sounds. All coconut oil is refined in some sense because coconut oil doesn’t grow on a plant (coconuts do). The bleaching process used for coconut oil is usually a filtering process and not one involving chemicals. The deodorizing process in coconut oil is usually done with steam. The result is coconut oil that’s bland in taste and odor. Virgin coconut oil is the purest form of coconut oil available so it’s what I recommend.
Now, it’s time for your Trick:
If you’re feeling a bit low on energy, try eating a tablespoon of coconut oil!
Your Tip:
Looking to shake things up with your smoothie? Try blending a tablespoon of coconut oil into your smoothie for better-staying power; you’ll keep fuller longer.
And your Recipe:
Turkey Asian Stir Fry
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil
- 1 large clove garlic minced
- 1/2 medium onion chopped
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 2 tablespoons coconut aminos
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions
- 1 medium carrot chopped
- 1 cup shredded cabbage
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium heat, heat coconut oil. To the skillet, add the garlic and onion. Cook for 5 minutes then add the ground turkey. Cook the turkey for 10 minutes, until turkey is brown.
- In a small bowl, mix the next 5 ingredients (coconut aminos through onions). Pour sauce over turkey and stir. To the ground turkey, add the carrots and cabbage and stir. Cover the skillet and turn heat down to low. Cook for 5 minutes until vegetables are slightly tender. Serve warm.
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5 Responses
Why didn’t I think of coconut oil to remove eye makeup? I only wear it twice a week but for years I’ve used baby oil to remove my waterproof mascara. Next time I will try coconut oil. I always have a ton of it, too, but since it is in the kitchen I tend to forget to use it other places.
I have recently begun using this as a makeup remover and facial moisturizer. It’s helped clear up my complexion after trying too many over the counter item! Love incorporating it into my cooking, adding some into my coffee in the a.m. and whipping it in my magic bullet makes it frothy and no need for the massive amounts of cream I used to use.
I find ‘virgin’ coconut oil tastes tooooo much like coconut. I like to have mine mild. Can you suggest any brand or type that has as strong health benefits but has a milder taste and if one can purchase it in Kelowna, BC, Canada or online? Thank you.
What are coconut aminos?
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Coconut Aminos is a seasoning alternative for use like soy sauce in salad dressing, marinades, sautes, and with sushi. You can get Coconut Aminos online or at your local health foods store. We love getting ours from Amazon :).
http://www.amazon.com/Coconut-Secret-Organic-Soy-Free-Seasoning/dp/B003XB5LMU