The Best Way to Shell a Coconut

Crack open a coconut and enjoy the sweet taste.

Coconuts are fruits that originate in the coconut palm tree. The palm trees are found in countries such as Malaysia and India. There are a myriad of ways to use coconuts. Whether you are eating the sweet meat of the coconut, or incorporating coconut oil into health or beauty regimes, it's beneficial for your entire body. When shelling a coconut, avoid trying to smash it with a hammer, as that method is dangerous and not very effective. There is an easier way that takes less effort.

Things You'll Need

• Meat cleaver
• Bowl
• Small knife

Instructions

1. Hold the coconut in one of your hands. Put the center of the coconut in the palm of your hand. Hold it over a large bowl as coconut water will come out of it when you crack it open.

2. Smack the coconut around the center with the blunt part of a meat cleaver. This is the back of the cleaver, not the blade. Smack it three to four times with the cleaver. At this time, the shell will crack open in two.

3. Use a small knife to take the coconut meat from the shell. The knife should be flexible so that you can break up the shell into pieces. Try and keep the pieces as large as possible.

Tips & Warnings

• Coconut water is safe to drink.

References

• Thai Food and Travel: Cracking a Coconut
• Homemade Dessert Recipes: How to Open a Coconut
• Living and Raw Foods: Coconut Water Information