10 ways to Use a Can of Coconut Milk

Discover the versatility of coconut milk and find recipe inspiration for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Coconut milk is a flavourful and sustainable plant-based alternative for dairy milk or cream. It has a thick consistency, rich creamy texture, and a slightly sweet, nutty and ‘tropical’ flavour. Find out why coconut milk is an essential pantry staple and check out the amazing collection of recipes below.

What’s the difference between coconut milk, light coconut milk and coconut cream?  

All three are made from the white flesh of the coconut and water. The difference is the percentage of coconut content in each, which creates varying thickness and fat content.

Coconut cream has the highest amount of coconut, making it the thickest and richest of the three. Coconut milk has a moderate amount of coconut, so it is still thick and creamy but less concentrated. Light coconut milk has the lowest amount of coconut, reducing the fat content and calorie count, yet still offering a delicious coconut flavour.

Coconut milk is thinner and better suited to soups, stews and light curies. While coconut cream’s thicker consistency is better suited for decadent desserts, whipped cream, or thick curries. For those who are conscious of the fat content in their meals, light coconut milk is an easy swap.

In general, all 3 can be used interchangeably in savoury dishes, but be aware the consistency will be affected. Compensate by adding a touch of extra water or simmering longer to get your desired consistency. Use caution when baking, as the water-to-dry-ingredient ratio may have an impact on the results.

The Health Benefits of Coconut  

Coconuts are packed with nutrients and include protein, fibre and essential minerals such as iron, manganese, copper and magnesium.

1. Medium-chain Triglycerides (MCTs)

Most of the fat in coconut flesh is a type of saturated fat referred to as medium-chain triglycerides. Several studies have found that consuming MCTs promotes weight loss by decreasing appetite and increasing energy, while also supporting a well-balanced gut microbiota.

2. All Fats Are Not Created Equal 

There can be concern over the high amount of saturated fat in coconut, however different sources of saturated fats can affect the body differently. 

Coconut contains medium-chain fatty acids (MCFAs), which are often considered a “healthy” form of fat and tend to be easier for the body to digest. The body metabolizes MCFAs in the liver, quickly converting them into energy rather than being stored as fat. MCFA’s can also increase metabolism.  

3. Supports Immunity 

MCFAs contain lauric acid, caprylic acid and capric acid, which have antifungal, antibacterial, antiviral properties to support the immune system.

4. Electrolytes and Vitamins

Coconut contains electrolytes including potassium, magnesium and phosphorous.

Potassium helps regulate the heartbeat, maintains function of the muscles and nerves, synthesizes protein and metabolizes carbohydrates. Magnesium supports the immune system and supports healthy nerve and muscle function. Phosphorus assists in the maintenance of healthy bones and teeth.

Coconut also contains vitamins C and E, which are well known for their antioxidant properties. 

Vegan, Dairy Free and Lactose Free 

For those with food allergies or those looking to increase plant-based foods in their diets, coconut offers a versatile solution. Whether it be for health reasons, environmental sustainability or animal welfare, coconut milk may be right for you. Learn more about popular diet trends here.

Ditch the additives  

It’s always a good idea to check the ingredient list, especially if your looking for clean products. Chantal Organics Coconut Milk & Coconut Cream is certified organic and made with all natural ingredients, without any additives or emulsifiers.  Will this make it different to other brands?

Emulsifiers are often added to coconut milk to ensure a consistent texture.  Without it, the fat content naturally separates from the water content (which is really helpful when making vegan whipped cream). To ensure a creamy consistency with natural coconut milk, simply shake the can vigorously to recombine the contents. For an opened can, use a wire whisk to blend until creamy.

Recipe Inspiration 

Here are some of our favourite recipes using coconut milk and coconut cream. Use light coconut milk if you’re looking to reduce calories.

Breakfast and Smoothies:

A glorious green smoothie, this Spirulina, Kale & Kiwi Smoothie is surprisingly delicious and super creamy.  

The perfect post-work out snack, this Caramel Tahini Smoothie can also be for breakfast or even dessert!

This Tahini, Berry & Beet Smoothie is a ravishing red blend of strawberries, raspberries and beetroot, combined with coconut milk, and tahini.

This Spiced Apple & Feijoa Porridge is made with brown rice for a gluten free option. The apple and feijoa pair deliciously with cinnamon and coconut milk.

A traditional oat porridge, this Ginger, Pear & Pistachio Coconut Porridge has the added benefit of coconut, chia and ginger.

Curries: 

We love this Fijian-Style Coconut Fish Curry. It’s the perfect combo of creamy coconut milk, traditional spices, local silverbeet and white fish.

Coconut Curry Chicken Noodle Soup with Spicy Chickpeas turns a classic soup into a luxuriously creamy coconut curry soup!

Kūmara & Lentil Coconut Curry is a rich Jamaican-inspired curry with a flavourful blend of spices, spinach and our luxurious coconut milk.

Soups & Main Dishes:

Green soup? We guarantee this is a winner! Coconut milk makes this Green Veggie Coconut Soup thick, creamy and oh-so-delicious.

Plantain & Coconut Gratin is a common dish in the Caribbean. Consider it a unique alternative to lasagne. Plantains are full of fibre and vitamins (A, C and B6) and are rich in potassium. 

This Thai-inspired Coconut Risotto is a creamy, hearty and warming dish that is perfect for cooler nights. It’s a quick and easy dinner; feel free to add animal protein to suit your family.

Sweets: 

This impressive Peanut Butter Coconut Cream Pie is both gluten and dairy free. It’s perfect for a special occasion.  

This Coconut Cake looks fancy, tastes amazing, and is dairy free too! It’s made with a combination of extra virgin sweet almond, coconut oil and coconut milk for a deep coconut flavour!

Coconut milk is the secret ingredient in these dairy free popsicles: Grilled Pineapple and Coconut Popsicles,  Golden Coconut Milk Popsicles or creamy Avocado Popsicles.

What will you make this weekend?