Coconut Flour – Like any other alternative flour?

Do you do much baking with alternative flours? I do not as I have no one I cook or bake for that needs to stay away from regular flour. When I do make something with an alternative flour, it is usually with a nut flour such as almond or hazelnut. Many times, these ingredients are called for because of the flavor they impart, not because they are gluten free. A different alternative flour that I decided to investigate is Coconut Flour and that is the subject of this Cooking Tip.

Coconut flour is a by-product of extracting coconut milk from the coconut. The coconut milk is removed and the remaining meat is fully dried and subsequently ground into a powder.

It is a product that you might be interested in trying but realize that it is not a 1:1 substitution for wheat flour as they act very differently. The nature of coconut flour is such that it absorbs much more moisture than regular flour. Therefore, you need to limit how much you use along with adding more liquid.

Here are some Dos and Don’ts from coconut flour experts.

• Do use coconut flour in dishes that can benefit from its flavor. The flavor and aroma are distinctly of coconut but not overpowering.
• Don’t replace more than 25% of the flour in a wheat flour recipe with coconut flour.
• Do add extra moisture when you are baking with coconut flour. Start by adding 2 tablespoons of extra liquid for every 2 tablespoons of coconut flour that you use. If your recipe calls for eggs, many recommend adding one additional egg.
• Do beat the eggs before adding to the flour as it will help to give a lighter texture.
• Do sift the flour before using as it tends to clump.
• Do mix thoroughly to prevent any clumps of coconut flour.
• Do let the coconut flour sit after adding liquid ingredients to a batter recipe. This will allow for more moisture absorption and help you decide if you need more liquid.
• Do consider decreasing the sweet ingredients as the coconut flour has a natural sweetness to it.
• If you are using it in a preparation where you want a crispy texture, add some almond flour.
• When buying, look for a bag where coconut is the only ingredient. You do not want any added sugars, flavorings or other fillers.
• Can be used for non-baking uses such as to thicken sauces and coat foods.
• Don’t assume that coconut flour and other alternative flours are interchangeable as they are not. For example, almond flour is much denser and much higher in fat.

Do you utilize alternative flours? Have you ever tried coconut flour. If not, give it a try but be aware of the above cautions and have fun!