Dairy Alternative | Vegan Vegetarian Gluten Free Lactose Free

Coconut Milk

Cocos nucifera Allergens: Tree Nuts (Coconut)
coconut milk

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Arecaceae
  • Primary Cuisine Southeast Asian|South Asian|Caribbean
  • Seasonality Year-Round
  • Source Coconut

The Forktionary Angle

"The plant-based creamy base that elevates both savory curries and sweet desserts with its rich, exotic flavor."

Definition

A creamy, opaque liquid made from grated coconut flesh mixed with water, popular in tropical cuisines and as a dairy alternative.

Sensory Profile

TasteSweet, Creamy, Nutty, Tropical
TextureViscous, Smooth, Creamy
AromaSweet, Coconut, Mild
AcidityLow

Technical Metrics

Culinary Usage

Staple in Thai & Indian Cuisine

Nutrient Highlight

Rich in Medium-Chain Triglycerides (MCTs)

Storage Tip

Refrigerate opened can; freezes well

Nutrition Facts

Per 1/4 cup (60g)
Calories230 kcal
Total Fat24 g
Saturated Fat21 g
Trans Fat0 g
Cholesterol0 mg
Protein2.3 g
Total Carbohydrate5.5 g
Dietary Fiber2.2 g
Total Sugars2.7 g
Calcium16 mg
Iron1.6 mg
Potassium263 mg

Chef’s Secret

For a thicker coconut cream, refrigerate the can overnight and scoop the solid top layer.

Substitutions

Best Match

Heavy Cream

1:1

Best for richness and texture in savory dishes, not dairy-free.

Cashew Cream

1:1

Excellent dairy-free, neutral-tasting alternative for creamy sauces and soups.

Evaporated Milk

1:1

Good for enriching and thickening, but has a distinct cooked milk flavor.

Almond Milk (with a touch of fat)

1:1 (add 1 tsp oil per cup)

Lighter option, suitable for lighter sauces or smoothies, less rich.

Buying Guide

Shake cans before buying; choose full-fat for richer dishes, light for lower calories.

Flavor Pairings

Curry Chili Lime Ginger Lemongrass Pineapple Mango Seafood Chicken.

Recipes Using Coconut Milk

Dinner Party Low Protein Low In Something Squash

The Bomb Pumpkin Soup

Experience pure autumn bliss with this incredible harvest pumpkin soup, hailed as the best ever! This recipe, originally featured in *belle* magazine, delivers an unbelievably creamy and flavorful soup that's guaranteed to impress. Warm spices and perfectly roasted pumpkin create a symphony of taste sensations. Get ready for a taste of 'amazing'!

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Asian Time To Make Comfort Food Indian

Chicken Tikka Masala Vegan Style

Craving Chicken Tikka Masala but living the vegan life? This recipe delivers the rich, creamy, and aromatic flavors you love, completely plant-based! Using Gardein's 'Chicken Scallopini' as a fantastic meat substitute, this dish is surprisingly easy to make and will impress even the most dedicated carnivores. Get ready for a flavor explosion!

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Number Of Servings Low Sodium Number Of Servings Grains

Amaranth For Breakfast

Tired of boring breakfast cereals? This recipe transforms earthy amaranth into a delightful breakfast bowl! Packed with nutrients and naturally vegan (with agave or your preferred sweetener), this recipe cleverly masks amaranth's unique flavor with warming cinnamon and creamy coconut milk. Perfect on its own or mixed with other grains like millet, steel-cut oats, or whole spelt for added texture and flavor. While amaranth is undeniably healthy, this recipe is also a great option if you're not a fan of its strong taste – the other ingredients beautifully complement and enhance the overall experience. Get ready for a flavorful and satisfying start to your day!

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American Dips For Large Groups Sweet

Angela's Pineapple Coconut Cream Cheese Frosting

Tropical bliss in every bite! This vibrant pineapple coconut cream cheese frosting is the perfect topping for your carrot cake, cupcakes, or even as a delicious fruit dip. Creamy, tangy, and bursting with sweet pineapple and coconut flavor, this easy 5-minute recipe will elevate your desserts to a whole new level of deliciousness. Get ready for rave reviews!

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Meat Time To Make 4 Hours Or Less Main Ingredient

Asian Comfort Food Coconut Curry Chicken Noodle Soup

Indulge in this creamy, aromatic Coconut Curry Chicken Noodle Soup, a comforting Asian-inspired dish bursting with flavor! Chicken simmered to perfection in a rich, homemade broth forms the base of this easy-to-make recipe. Infused with fragrant Thai curry paste and luscious coconut milk, this soup is customizable to your spice preference. Served without added salt or soy sauce (served on the side for individual preference), it's a healthy and delicious option perfect for a light lunch or satisfying dinner. Inspired by the culinary traditions of [mention specific Asian countries if known from zwt-9 reference], this recipe highlights the common use of coconut milk and delivers a taste of authentic Asian flavors.

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American Soups Stews American Cuisine

Autumn Gold Butternut Squash Soup With Thai Inspired Flavors

Warm up your autumn with this vibrant and flavorful butternut squash soup! Infused with aromatic Thai spices like ginger and curry paste, this creamy soup is the perfect starter or light main course. Imagine the rich, golden hue of the butternut squash, complemented by the subtle heat of ginger and the creamy coconut milk. A simple garnish of crispy pappadums, toasted coconut, and fresh cilantro adds the perfect finishing touch. Adapted from a Whole Foods Market recipe, this easy-to-follow recipe is perfect for a cozy autumn evening.

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Coconut Time To Make 30 Minutes Or Less Nuts

Baked Banana Orange French Toast

Escape to a tropical paradise with this Baked Banana Orange French Toast Casserole! A dreamy fusion of French countryside charm and Polynesian island flavors, this recipe combines the richness of creamy French toast with exotic banana, coconut, and warming cinnamon. Prepare it the night before – the 12-hour chill enhances the flavors – then bake for a stress-free, show-stopping breakfast or brunch. No syrup needed! This easy casserole is bursting with irresistible flavor in every bite.

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60 Minutes Or Less Pancakes And Waffles Stove Top Cuisine

Banana And Coconut Pancakes

Indulge in these fluffy banana coconut pancakes – a delightful Asian-inspired dessert! This easy recipe combines the tropical sweetness of bananas and coconut for a taste of paradise. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet treat any time of day.

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Coconut Low Calorie Time To Make Beginner Cook

Banana Coconut Fitness Booster

Fuel your body with this delicious and easy Banana Coconut Fitness Booster! This post-workout beverage is packed with natural energy, perfect for replenishing after a hard workout or as a healthy pick-me-up anytime. Sweetened naturally with honey or maple syrup, it's the ultimate guilt-free treat.

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Stove Top Vegetarian Asian Nuts

Banana In Coconut Cream

Indulge in this dreamy Thai-inspired dessert! Sweet and creamy banana slices simmered in rich coconut milk, infused with warm cinnamon. This recipe is surprisingly healthy, packed with bone-strengthening phosphorus and calcium, heart-healthy potassium, and vitamins A and B6. Banish those leg cramps and treat yourself to a taste of paradise – it's quick, easy, and unbelievably delicious!

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Dietary 15 Minutes Or Less Thai Time To Make

Banana In Coconut Milk

Indulge in this unbelievably creamy and simple Thai dessert! Ready in under 20 minutes, our Banana in Coconut Milk recipe is the perfect quick treat for a warm evening. Sweet bananas simmered in fragrant coconut milk – it's pure bliss!

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Gluten Free Main Dish Gluten Free Main Ingredient

Banana Tofu Curry

Transform overripe bananas into a surprisingly delicious and easy curry! This unique recipe, inspired by a curry-loving friend, blends the sweetness of bananas with savory spices and creamy coconut milk. Perfect for a weeknight meal, this quick and flavorful curry is ready in under an hour and is guaranteed to impress. Serve with basmati rice and your favorite sides for a complete and satisfying experience.

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Bananas Preparation Course Nuts

Banana Wontons With Coconut Sauce

Delight your taste buds with these crispy Banana Wontons! Sweet ripe bananas and warm cinnamon are nestled inside golden-fried wonton wrappers, then drizzled with a luscious, homemade coconut sauce. This lighter take on a classic dessert is lower in fat and sugar, making it the perfect guilt-free treat. The natural sweetness of the bananas and coconut is irresistible, but you can easily customize the sweetness to your preference. Prepare for a delightful snack or dessert experience – approximately 16 wontons await!

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Main Ingredient Beginner Cook Spring Beverages

Banana Coconut Cream Pie Smoothie

Escape to paradise with this creamy, dreamy Banana Coconut Cream Pie Smoothie! This tropical treat is quick, easy, and unbelievably delicious. We've adapted this recipe for ultimate smoothie perfection—freezing the bananas beforehand creates an incredibly thick and satisfying texture. Imagine the taste of creamy coconut, sweet banana, and a hint of warm spice—all blended into a refreshing, guilt-free indulgence. Perfect for a hot summer day or any time you crave a healthy, flavorful pick-me-up! Make it vegan-friendly with a simple swap!

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Beef Asian Curries Time To Make

Beef Bombay Curry

Indulge in this rich and flavorful Beef Bombay Curry, adapted from a treasured Dutch cookbook! This recipe elevates tender beefsteak to aromatic perfection with a blend of warming spices. The slow-simmered curry, infused with coconut milk, creates a luxuriously creamy and deeply satisfying dish. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion!

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Ground Beef Fruit 60 Minutes Or Less Meat

Beef Curry Pillows

Indulge in these irresistible Beef Curry Pillows! Spicy, fragrant beef curry is lovingly tucked inside flaky, golden puff pastry for a flavor explosion in every bite. A perfect appetizer or light meal, this recipe is surprisingly easy to make and delivers restaurant-quality results.

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Turkey Low In Something Main Dish Chicken

Beginner's Curry

This vibrant and flavorful chicken curry, adapted from the Chicago Tribune, is the perfect introduction to ethnic cuisine for picky eaters of all ages! Incredibly mild and easy to make, this recipe is a family-friendly favorite. Get ready for a delicious and colorful meal that's ready in under an hour!

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Desserts Cakes Desserts Occasion

Bibingka Sweet Rice Flour

Indulge in the irresistible charm of Bibingka, a beloved Filipino dessert! This recipe uses sweet rice flour (mochiko) and creamy coconut milk to create a melt-in-your-mouth cake with a subtly sweet flavor. Warning: its addictive texture makes it impossible to eat just one slice! Prepare to be transported back to childhood with this classic treat, perfect for any occasion.

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