BETTER WITH BUTTER
Coconut butter is a great substitute for butter in cooking—and some say healthier. 8-oz. jar, $6.95 at Hawaii General Store and Gallery, 258 N.E. 45th St., (206) 633-5233.
In Good Taste
In A Nutshell
If you thought the best thing ever done with a coconut involved an island of castaways and a Professor-made gadget, think again

The coconut palm is known as the “tree of life” in tropical places around the world because of its many uses: coconut water is a nutritious drink; the strong fibers from the nut’s husk are used in ropes and mats; palm wood makes a great material for furniture-building. With so many uses, it’s no wonder the tree is a coveted staple of island living.

A tropical paradise Seattle is not, but coconut products add island flair to any Northwest kitchen all year long. Whether soup is served in a coconut bowl or a meal is enhanced with the distinctive coconut taste, this fruit satiates a desire for the islands until that next trip to the tropics.


Bowls made of coconut shells by Circa Asia exude tropical charm and sophistication. $9.95 each at Mr. J’s Culinary Essentials, 10116 N.E. 8th St., Bellevue, (425) 455-2270. Skewers infused with coconut and lime add flavor from the inside out. $8.95 for set of 10 at Sur la Table, 84 Pine St., (206) 448-2244.
TRIPLE THREAT
Barefoot Contessa’s coconut cupcake recipe is so desirable, a mix was made for the decadent treats made of coconut cake, topped with cream-cheese frosting and garnished with shredded coconut. $10.95 at Sur la Table, 84 Pine St., (206) 448-2244.

NOT JUST FOR PANCAKES
Summer months seem closer when coconut syrup is added to a favorite cocktail or poured over ice cream. 10-oz. bottle, $4.99 at Hawaii General Store and Gallery, 258 N.E. 45th St., (206) 633-5233.
CHILL OUT
Try Luna and Larry’s Coconut Bliss nondairy ice cream in “Naked Coconut” for the total coconut experience or flavors such as “Dark Chocolate” and “Vanilla Island” for just a hint of the nut taste. 16-oz. carton, $5.49 at PCC.