Coconut Milk

Getting bored of soy and almond milk? Wanting to add some texture, flavour and something a little more exciting? You’ve come to the right place! Coconut milk can take your drinks, cereal and cooking to another level. Known for its tropical, soft and nutty flavour, coconut milk is a trend that keeps on growing. 

How Is Coconut Milk made?

Did you know that out of all the plant-based milks, coconut milk has been around for the longest? For being a traditional treat in the Asian countries for centuries, it is no wonder it is becoming a staple even in countries that cannot grow coconuts.

Coconut milk is made by grating the inner, white “flesh” of coconuts. This results in a liquid that resembles milk. This milk can be made thicker or thinner depending how much water is being used in the process. Sometimes the liquid from the grating is left to stand, where it forms a thicker layer on the top. This layer is extremely creamy, which makes delicious coconut cream as well!

Most companies add emulsifiers to their coconut milk to keep it smooth and prevent it from layering. And although coconut milk is already a good source of vitamins and minerals, some brands also add nutrients, such as calcium and vitamin B12 to make it even better for a healthy and balanced diet!

Delicious Ways To Use Coconut Milk

It can be used in many ways. It brings a creamy texture and a nutty, sweet flavour. Here are 3 ways to enjoy coconut milk. 

With Drinks

Try coconut milk with tea, coffee and smoothies. It is a delicious dairy free alternative that also adds nutrition. Freezing plant-based milk in an ice cube tray is a fun way to make coconut ice coffee. You can also try it in cocktails to bring an exotic twist! 

With Curries, Soups and Stews

Using coconut milk with curries is a classic. It makes the dish comforting, creamy and fragrant. It is also a perfect way to balance spice and tanginess. In addition, it is also a flavoursome match when blended with veggies like butternut squash and sweet potato and spices. 

In Baking

Coconut milk adds flavour in baking too. It pairs wonderfully with fruity cakes, chocolate or even as a base for pancakes or waffles. You can usually substitute it with a 1:1 ratio just like you would use regular milk! 

3 Health Benefits Of Coconut Milk

1. It contains lauric acid, which converts into monolaurin in the body. Monolaurin is thought to be a highly beneficial compound that potentially has antimicrobial, antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties. Although the amount of monolaurin in coconut milk is not extremely high, it could still be great for our bodies! 

1. On top of lauric acid, coconut milk contains medium-chain saturated fatty acids (MCFAs). It is believed that these fatty acids may help improve metabolic features and can potentially help prevent diabetes and boost the immune system. Not bad, hey!

1. Coconut milk and water are also highly used in the fitness community. They contain potassium, magnesium, calcium, sodium and other electrolytes that can support hydration and recovery. 

Best Coconut Milks To Try

Rude Health - Organic Coconut Drink

This coconut drink is so smooth, silky and tasty! With amazing and simple ingredients (water, coconuts, rice and sea salt) this drink is 100% natural and contains no added sugars. With its rich flavour, this Organic Coconut Drink makes a perfect addition to muesli, porridge, curries and much more!

Koko Dairy Free - Original + Calcium

Would you like your plant-based milk with some added vitamins and minerals? This Original + Calcium Coconut drink contains added vitamin D2, vitamin B12 and calcium. It is naturally low in sugar and fat, and is delicious with smoothies and granola, for example. 

Plenish - Organic Coconut M*ilk

Made with organic and sustainably grown Sri Lankan coconuts, this coconut drink is light, refreshing and creamy. It contains only 4 simple and clean ingredients that make a perfect guilt-free and dairy-free milk. This Organic Coconut M*lk will bring tropical deliciousness into your cooking and baking.

Koko Dairy Free - Super UHT Coconut Milk

Koko Dairy Free delivers another flavoursome coconut milk that has added minerals and vitamins. It also contains faba beans for some extra protein. This Coconut Milk has been processed in ultra high temperature (UHT), which gives it a long shelf life and it doesn’t need to be refrigerated until opening.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between canned and carton coconut milk?

The main difference between these two is the amount of water they contain. Carton coconut milk is a lot more dilated than coconut milk in the can. Carton coconut milk is texture wise more similar to dairy milk making it ideal for coffees, teas, cereal, smoothies and much more. Canned coconut milk is thicker and has a higher fat content, which gives it a creamy texture, ideal for curries, soups and baking. 

Can recipes with coconut milk be frozen?

Absolutely! Coconut milk freezes well. You can even freeze it as it is (maybe in a container or ice cube trays to make it easier to use when frozen) and throw the frozen coconut milk into curries, soups, stews or smoothies when cooking or preparing. 

How long does coconut milk last?

This can vary between brands, but usually an opened carton of coconut milk lasts for around five days after opening. Always store the coconut milk in the fridge after opening. 

Is coconut milk better than oat milk?

All plant-based milks have different nutritional benefits. For example, oat milk contains more riboflavin, when coconut milk contains more vitamin B12. Coconut milk has less carbs but more fats. Both of them contain a good amount of calcium. Both are great milk alternatives to use in cooking, baking and in drinks