10 ways to Use a Can of Coconut Milk

Explore the versatility and benefits of coconut milk, with recipe inspiration for breakfast, dessert, meals and more!

Coconut milk is a tasty 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 a must-have pantry staple and check out our delicious collection of recipes below.

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

Coconut milk and coconut cream are both made from the white flesh of the coconut. This high content of coconut gives it that thick and creamy consistency. It is typically used for baking or cooking. Coconut cream is even thicker, richer and more concentrated, with a slightly higher fat content.

Most recipes will specify to use coconut cream or coconut milk, but in general, they can be used interchangeably.

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.

Which type of coconut milk should I buy?  

If a clean diet is high on your list, it’s best to buy organic coconut products that contain very few ingredients. This way you can avoid added sugars, preservatives, and artificial thickeners or gums.s.

Recipe Inspiration 

Here are some of our favourite recipes using coconut milk and coconut cream.

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 Cauliflower & Chickpea Masala is packed full of nourishing plant-based goodness. Spoil yourself or serve it to guests, this dish is a guaranteed winner!

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 next?