How to Make Coconut Milk: Fresh and Creamy from Scratch (or Almost)

Coconut milk adds a touch of tropical paradise to countless dishes, from savory curries to creamy desserts. But did you know you can ditch the store-bought cartons and make your own delicious coconut milk at home? The good news is, you have two convenient options: using shredded coconut or coconut milk powder. Both methods are surprisingly easy and offer fresh, flavorful results.

Making Coconut Milk from Shredded Coconut:

Choosing Your Coconut:

There are two main options when using shredded coconut: fresh or dried. Fresh coconut will yield a richer, more intense coconut flavor, but dried shredded coconut works perfectly well too.

Soaking the Coconut:

The key to extracting maximum coconut milk is to soften the flesh. To do this, place your shredded coconut (fresh or dried) in a bowl and cover it with hot water. Let it soak for at least 15 minutes, or up to 30 minutes for a stronger flavor.

Blending and Straining:

Transfer the soaked coconut and water to a high-powered blender. Add a little extra water for a thinner milk consistency, or keep it thicker for curries and stews. Blend for a couple of minutes until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Finally, strain the coconut milk through cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve to remove any remaining coconut solids.

Making Coconut Milk from Coconut Milk Powder:

Choosing Your Powder:

For those times when you need coconut milk in a pinch, coconut milk powder is a lifesaver. Look for unsweetened coconut milk powder specifically designed for culinary use. Sweetened varieties are better suited for baking applications.

Mixing with Water:

The beauty of coconut milk powder is its simplicity. Simply whisk the desired amount of powder into hot water. The ratio of powder to water will vary depending on the brand and the thickness you desire. Most brands will have recommended ratios on the packaging, offering a starting point for a perfect consistency.

Tips and Variations:

-Like your coconut milk thicker? Use less water. Need a thinner consistency for beverages or soups? Simply add more water.

-Feeling adventurous? Experiment with adding flavorings like vanilla extract, cinnamon, or a pinch of cardamom to customize your coconut milk for different recipes.

To sum up:

Making your own coconut milk, whether from shredded coconut or convenient coconut milk powder, is easier than it might sound. With a little effort, you can enjoy fresh, delicious coconut milk in your cooking, adding a touch of homemade magic to every dish.