Coconut prices skyrocket in Kerala: Tips for managing your kitchen budget without sacrificing flavour

In recent times, Kerala has witnessed a significant increase in coconut prices, largely due to adverse weather conditions that have affected production across South India. The prolonged absence of rainfall during the summer months has led to a decline in coconut yield, prompting farmers to face challenges in meeting the rising demand. With the combination of lower yields and increasing market demand in the neighbouring states, coconut prices have reached new highs, impacting both farmers and consumers in the region.

The rising price of coconuts can be a concern for many Malayalis, as coconut is a key ingredient in traditional Kerala cuisine. Here are some strategies to manage your kitchen budget without compromising too much on flavour:

1. Use coconut more sparingly
Dilute coconut milk: If a recipe calls for thick coconut milk, you can dilute it with water or use a combination of first and second pressings.

Limit quantity: Adjust the amount of grated coconut in dishes like thoran, aviyal, and chutneys without significantly affecting taste. A little can go a long way!

2. Switch to Coconut Substitutes
Coconut oil substitutes: Use cheaper alternatives like sunflower oil or rice bran oil for non-traditional dishes, reserving coconut oil for the recipes where it's essential.

Groundnuts/peanuts: You can substitute groundnuts or sesame seeds for grated coconut in certain chutneys and curries.

Coconut-free variations: Try recipes that use alternative ingredients like curd, yogurt, or tomatoes to create creamy textures without coconut.

3. Buy in bulk
Purchase coconuts in bulk from wholesale markets. Similarly, bulk-buy coconut oil and store it properly to avoid price fluctuations.

4. Coconut milk powder
Coconut milk powder is an affordable and shelf-stable alternative to fresh coconut milk. It works well for making gravies and curries.

5. Keep track of market trends
Keep an eye on when coconut prices drop during the harvest season. Stock up during these times to manage costs over the long run.

With these strategies, you can still enjoy a Kerala-style kitchen without overspending due to fluctuating coconut prices.