How to Make Plant-Based Butter from Sukha Narial (Dried Coconut)
This simple homemade butter is made using dried coconut (sukha narial), and it’s a perfect dairy-free, vegan alternative to butter. It’s easy to make and can be used in various recipes, from spreading on bread to adding richness to your cooking.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup dried coconut (sukha narial), grated or shredded
- ½ cup coconut oil (refined or unrefined, depending on preference)
- 1-2 tbsp water (adjust based on consistency)
- ½ tsp salt (optional, for flavor)
- 1 tsp sweetener (optional, if you want a slightly sweet butter)
- 1 tsp lemon juice (optional, for a slight tang)
Steps to Make Sukha Narial Butter:
1. Prepare the Coconut:
- If you’re using shredded dried coconut, ensure it’s unsweetened. You can use fresh coconut as well, but dried coconut will yield a firmer texture for the butter.
- You may need to grind or blend the dried coconut slightly to make it finer, as this helps in making a smoother butter.
2. Blend Coconut and Oil:
In a blender or food processor, combine the shredded dried coconut with coconut oil. Blend for 1-2 minutes, stopping occasionally to scrape down the sides. The coconut should break down and mix with the oil, creating a creamy consistency.
3. Add Liquid and Flavorings:
- Gradually add 1-2 tablespoons of water, depending on the desired consistency. Blend until smooth and spreadable.
- Add the salt and sweetener if you’re looking for a more savory or sweet butter. You can also add lemon juice if you want a slightly tangy taste, similar to regular butter.
4. Chill and Set:
Transfer the butter into a container or mold and place it in the refrigerator. Let it chill for a few hours, or until it solidifies. The coconut oil helps the butter firm up as it cools.
5. Use and Enjoy:
Once the butter has solidified, you can use it as a spread on bread, toast, or crackers, or use it in any cooking or baking recipe that requires butter. It’s a great choice for sautéing, frying, or even baking vegan pastries.
Why Sukha Narial Butter?
- Natural and Dairy-Free: This butter is completely plant-based, made from the natural fats in dried coconut and coconut oil. It’s perfect for anyone looking to avoid dairy or follow a vegan lifestyle.
- Rich and Creamy Texture: The coconut oil combined with dried coconut gives this butter a rich, smooth texture that resembles traditional butter, making it a great replacement in most recipes.
- Versatile Use: Just like regular butter, you can use this for spreading on toast, in cooking, or as a replacement for butter in baking. It’s also a great alternative for greasing pans or making sauces.
- Healthier Fats: Coconut oil contains medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which are a type of fat that is known to offer various health benefits, such as boosting metabolism and providing quick energy.
Creative Ways to Use Sukha Narial Butter:
- Spread on Toast or Crackers: Just like traditional butter, spread this plant-based butter on warm toast, bagels, or crackers for a creamy treat.
- Baking: Use it as a substitute for regular butter in baking recipes like cookies, muffins, cakes, or pies. It works especially well in coconut-flavored desserts.
- Sautéing or Stir-Frying: Use it for sautéing vegetables or stir-frying rice and noodles. The coconut flavor adds a rich taste to your savory dishes.
- Vegan Pastries: Perfect for making vegan croissants, puff pastries, or any flaky pastry that requires butter for texture.
- In Sauces or Soups: Add a spoonful to vegan creamy sauces or soups for a rich and smooth consistency.
- As a Base for Vegan Frosting: Blend it with powdered sugar and vanilla to make a dairy-free frosting for cakes and cupcakes.
Conclusion:
Making plant-based butter with sukha narial is a fantastic way to enjoy a creamy, dairy-free spread without compromising on flavor. It’s easy to prepare, versatile, and can be used in a variety of ways. Whether you’re following a vegan lifestyle, are lactose intolerant, or simply want to try something new, this coconut butter is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Give this recipe a try, and let us know how you like to use your homemade plant-based butter!