Desiccated coconut is a versatile ingredient used in various culinary creations, from baking to savory dishes. It is simply coconut meat that has been grated and dried, making it a convenient and shelf-stable product.
If you’ve ever found yourself needing desiccated coconut but didn’t have any on hand, don’t worry. Making it at home is simpler than you might think.
Here’s a detailed guide on how to make your own desiccated coconut.
Ingredients and Equipment
Ingredients:
- Fresh coconuts (preferably mature coconuts for the best texture and flavor)
Equipment:
- A sharp knife or a coconut opener
- A vegetable peeler
- A grater or food processor
- Baking sheet
- Oven or dehydrator
- Airtight container for storage
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Selecting the Coconut
Choose mature coconuts, as they contain more coconut meat and the right texture for desiccation. You can identify mature coconuts by their brown, hairy exterior. Shake the coconut; you should hear the water sloshing inside. This indicates that the coconut is fresh and not dried out.
If you prefer to save the work and not manually prepare a real coconut, you can use a bag of shredded coconut and skip to step 5 below!
Step 2: Opening the Coconut
- Drain the Water: Using a clean nail or a screwdriver, pierce the three “eyes” of the coconut to drain the water. Collect the coconut water in a bowl (it can be consumed as a refreshing drink or used in recipes).
- Crack Open the Shell: Use a hammer or the back of a heavy knife to crack the coconut open. Tap around the circumference until it splits into two halves.
Step 3: Removing the Meat
- Separate the Meat: Use a butter knife or a coconut scraper to pry the coconut meat away from the shell. Be careful to avoid breaking the meat into too many small pieces.
- Peel the Brown Skin: Use a vegetable peeler to remove the thin brown skin from the white coconut meat. This step is optional but recommended for a pure white desiccated coconut.

Step 4: Grating the Coconut
- Grate by Hand: Use a box grater to grate the coconut meat manually. Choose the medium or fine side of the grater, depending on how fine you want your desiccated coconut.
- Use a Food Processor: For a quicker method, you can use a food processor. Cut the coconut meat into smaller chunks and pulse until you achieve the desired texture. Be careful not to over-process, as you want grated coconut, not coconut paste.
Step 5: Drying the Coconut
- Spread on a Baking Sheet: Spread the grated coconut evenly on a baking sheet. Ensure it is in a thin, even layer for uniform drying.
- Oven Drying: Preheat your oven to the lowest possible setting, typically around 120°F to 150°F (50°C to 65°C). Place the baking sheet in the oven and leave the door slightly ajar to allow moisture to escape. Stir the coconut every 15-20 minutes to ensure even drying. This process can take 1 to 2 hours.
- Dehydrator: If you have a food dehydrator, set it to 125°F (52°C) and spread the coconut evenly on the trays. Dry for 4 to 6 hours, checking periodically.
Step 6: Cooling and Storing
- Cool Completely: Allow the desiccated coconut to cool completely before storing. This prevents any residual moisture from causing mold.
- Store Properly: Transfer the dried coconut to an airtight container. Store in a cool, dry place. For longer shelf life, you can refrigerate or freeze the desiccated coconut.
Tips and Tricks
- Avoid Moisture: Ensure all equipment and storage containers are completely dry to prevent spoilage.
- Uniform Grating: Aim for uniform pieces when grating the coconut to ensure even drying.
- Check for Freshness: Before using, always check for any signs of mold or off smells to ensure the desiccated coconut is still good.
Uses for Desiccated Coconut
Desiccated coconut can be used in a multitude of recipes:
- Baking: Add to cakes, cookies, and muffins for added texture and flavor.
- Cooking: Use in curries, stir-fries, or as a coating for shrimp and chicken.
- Snacks: Mix into granola, energy balls, or sprinkle on yogurt.
Making desiccated coconut at home is a cost-effective and rewarding process. With a little time and effort, you can always have this handy ingredient ready for all your culinary adventures. Happy cooking!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can shredded coconut be turned into desiccated coconut?
Yes, shredded coconut can be dried and then ground in a food processor to be turned into desiccated coconut.
What is the difference between shredded and desiccated coconut?
Shredded coconut is a chewier and thicker texture while desiccated coconut is much finer and drier.