Forktionary

Fat Coconut Milk

Cocos nucifera Dairy Alternative, Plant-Based, Cooking Liquid

Fat Coconut Milk Dairy Alternative, Plant-Based, Cooking Liquid

At a Glance

  • Category Dairy Alternative, Plant-Based, Cooking Liquid

The Forktionary Angle

"The Tropical Cream"

Definition

A rich, creamy liquid extracted from the grated flesh of mature coconuts, high in fat content, used widely in Southeast Asian cuisine and as a dairy alternative.

Asian Cuisine Usage Found in ~30% of curries
Refrigerator Life (Opened) 5-7 days
Saturated Fat Content ~20g per 100ml

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Fat Coconut Milk are:

Rich Creamy Sweet Nutty

Chef’s Secret

Refrigerate a can of full-fat coconut milk overnight; the cream will separate and harden at the top, allowing you to scoop it off for a thick, dairy-free whipped cream.

Best Substitutes

Heavy cream

not dairy-free
Ratio 1:1

Cashew cream

Ratio 1:1

Light coconut milk

but less rich
Ratio 1:1

Buying Guide

Shake cans well before opening. Look for brands without added gums or thickeners if a purer product is desired.

Culinary Pairings

Curries soups rice smoothies desserts coffee tropical fruits