The English name coconut, first mentioned in English print in 1955 comes from a Spanish and Portuguese word, coco meaning "monkey face". The actual coconut fruit was said to resemble a monkey's face and hence how its name came about. In Sanskrit, the coconut palm is known as "the tree which gives all that is necessary for living"; and so this may be true in Barbados as well! The fruit itself has many food uses for its water, milk, meat, sugar and oil. The seed fibre called coir can also be taken from the husk and used to make mats, brooms, brushes, fishnets and ropes.
In Barbados, with coconut palms lining the island and blooming up to thirteen times a year it is no wonder that on every highway in Barbados there is about three - five coconut vendors! So whether you are making the cocktail - rum and coconut water or purchasing some sugar cakes (a local coconut candy) or coconut bread - its use is abundant and very satisfying for locals and visitors alike.
Melanie & Kimberly*
Images: Loop Barbados
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