Coconut water adds gentle sweetness and savoury depth to braises, curries, marinades and desserts. It has only about 2.6 g of sugar and 19 kcal per 100 ml, so it sweetens far more lightly than sugar. In Vietnam it is the key liquid in thit kho (braised pork and eggs), and canned 100% coconut water works well as a substitute for fresh.
How is coconut water used in cooking?
- Braising liquid: replaces plain water so meat or fish cooks in a lightly sweet, aromatic stock that reduces to a glossy sauce.
- Marinades: adds moisture and mild sweetness to pork, chicken and seafood.
- Steaming: seafood such as clams and snails steamed in coconut water tastes sweeter and less fishy.
- Rice: cooking rice in coconut water gives a subtle fragrance.
- Desserts and drinks: jellies, sweet soups (chè), smoothies and ice.
Coconut water is not the same as coconut milk: coconut water is the clear liquid inside young coconuts, while coconut milk is made from grated coconut flesh and is rich and creamy.
Which dishes use coconut water?
1. Braised pork and eggs in coconut water (thịt kho nước dừa)
Pork belly and hard-boiled eggs are simmered slowly in coconut water, fish sauce and caramel until tender. The coconut water balances the salty fish sauce and rich pork and reduces into an amber sauce. It is a traditional dish for Tết (Lunar New Year).
2. Vietnamese chicken or duck curry (cà ri gà/vịt)
A mild yellow curry with chicken or duck, potato, carrot and lemongrass. Coconut water is often used as part of the cooking liquid for a lighter, sweeter broth, with coconut milk added at the end for creaminess.
3. Snails steamed with coconut water and lemongrass (ốc luộc nước dừa sả)
A popular street snack: snails are steamed with lemongrass, chilli and coconut water, which makes the meat sweeter and removes fishy smells. The same method works for clams and mussels.
Can you cook with canned or bottled coconut water?
Yes. Canned coconut water works well in braises, curries and marinades. For best results:
- Choose 100% coconut water with no added sugar, such as ACM Coconut Water Original 330ml.
- Adjust sugar if your product contains added sugar.
- Use fresh coconut water for delicate desserts where its aroma is the main flavour.
Browse the full coconut water range or learn why coconut water is so popular.
Frequently asked questions
What does coconut water add to food?
A light natural sweetness and a subtle nutty aroma, which balance salty and rich ingredients.
Can I replace water with coconut water in any recipe?
In most savoury braises, soups and rice dishes, yes. It will make the dish slightly sweeter, so reduce added sugar.
Is coconut water the same as coconut milk for cooking?
No. Coconut water is thin and light; coconut milk is thick and fatty. They are often used together in curries.
Does cooking destroy the nutrients in coconut water?
Minerals such as potassium survive cooking. Heat mainly affects its fresh aroma.
