Coconut milk adds a creamy, tropical twist to many dishes. From sweet treats to savory meals, this versatile ingredient can transform your cooking. You’ll find plenty of ways to use coconut milk in your kitchen.
These 30 coconut milk recipes will give you new ideas for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and dessert. You’ll discover curries, soups, smoothies, and baked goods that all use coconut milk. Try these recipes to add some variety to your meal planning and impress your family and friends with tasty new flavors.
Coconut milk pancakes offer a delicious dairy-free twist on a breakfast classic. They’re fluffy, flavorful, and easy to make.
To whip up these tasty pancakes, swap regular milk for canned coconut milk in your favorite recipe. The coconut milk adds richness and a subtle tropical taste.
You can use whole wheat flour for added nutrition or try a gluten-free option. For extra coconut flavor, sprinkle some unsweetened coconut flakes into the batter.
Cook your pancakes on a griddle until golden brown. Serve them with fresh fruit, maple syrup, or a dollop of coconut cream for a truly indulgent breakfast treat.
Thai green curry is a popular coconut milk-based dish. You can make it with chicken, vegetables, or both. The key ingredient is green curry paste, which gives the curry its signature color and flavor.
To prepare, sauté onions and chicken in a pan. Add garlic, ginger, and curry paste. Pour in coconut milk and let it simmer. Toss in your favorite veggies like carrots and zucchini.
For extra flavor, include kaffir lime leaves and fish sauce. Let everything cook until the chicken is done and veggies are tender. Serve your Thai green curry over rice for a tasty meal.
You can make delicious ice cream using coconut milk instead of dairy. This frozen treat is perfect for those avoiding lactose or following a vegan diet.
Coconut rice is a tasty twist on plain white rice. You can make it easily at home. To start, rinse your rice well.
In a pot, mix coconut milk, water, and a pinch of salt. Add the rinsed rice and bring it to a boil. Then cover and simmer on low heat.
Cook until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender. This usually takes about 15-20 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving.
For extra flavor, try adding a little sugar or lime zest. You can also toss in some shredded coconut at the end. Coconut rice goes great with many dishes, especially Asian and Caribbean foods.
Chia seed pudding with coconut milk is a tasty and healthy treat. You can make it easily at home with just a few ingredients.
Mix coconut milk, chia seeds, and a sweetener of your choice in a bowl. Add vanilla extract for extra flavor. Stir well to prevent clumps.
Cover the mixture and put it in the fridge. Let it chill for at least an hour or overnight. The chia seeds will absorb the liquid and create a pudding-like texture.
Before serving, give it another stir. Top with fresh fruit, nuts, or coconut flakes for added crunch. This pudding is great for breakfast or as a snack.
Coconut milk smoothies are a tasty and refreshing drink you can whip up in minutes. They’re creamy, satisfying, and perfect for a quick breakfast or snack.
To make a basic coconut milk smoothie, blend frozen fruit, coconut milk, and a banana. Strawberries, pineapple, or mixed berries work well. Add some coconut flakes for extra flavor and texture.
For a thicker smoothie, use less liquid or add more frozen fruit. If you want it thinner, add a splash of water or more coconut milk. You can also toss in some yogurt for extra creaminess and protein.
Experiment with add-ins like cinnamon, ginger, or flax seeds to boost nutrition and flavor. Blend until smooth and enjoy right away while cold.
You can make a delicious vegan coconut milk curry in just 30 minutes. Start by sautéing onions, garlic, and ginger in coconut oil. Add curry powder and your favorite veggies like carrots, broccoli, and bell peppers.
Pour in coconut milk and vegetable stock, then simmer until the vegetables are tender. For extra protein, toss in some chickpeas. Season with salt and a touch of coconut sugar to balance the flavors.
This versatile curry works well with many vegetables. Try sweet potatoes, zucchini, or green beans. Serve your curry over rice for a satisfying plant-based meal.
Coconut milk soup is a creamy and flavorful dish that’s perfect for cold days. You can make it with chicken, vegetables, or seafood.
Thai-inspired versions often include lemongrass, ginger, and curry paste for a spicy kick. These ingredients add depth and complexity to the soup.
To make coconut milk soup, start by sautéing aromatics like onion, garlic, and ginger. Then add broth, coconut milk, and your choice of protein or veggies.
You can customize the soup with different spices and herbs. Try adding lime juice, fish sauce, or chili peppers for extra flavor.
Coconut milk soup is easy to make and can be ready in about 30 minutes. It’s a great way to use coconut milk in a savory dish.
You can easily make a delicious coconut milk latte at home. Start by brewing strong coffee or espresso. While it’s brewing, warm up some coconut milk in a small saucepan or microwave.
For extra flavor, add a dash of vanilla extract and cinnamon to the coconut milk. Froth the milk by shaking it in a sealed jar or using a milk frother.
Pour the coffee into a mug, then top with the frothed coconut milk. Sprinkle some toasted coconut flakes on top for a tropical twist. You can adjust the sweetness by adding maple syrup or brown sugar to taste.
This creamy, dairy-free latte is perfect for a cozy morning or afternoon pick-me-up.
Coconut milk porridge is a tasty twist on traditional oatmeal. You can make it by cooking oats with coconut milk instead of water or regular milk.
To prepare, combine oats and coconut milk in a pot. Heat the mixture and stir until it thickens. You can add spices like cinnamon or vanilla for extra flavor.
Some recipes suggest adding nuts, chia seeds, or dates for texture and sweetness. You might also try topping your porridge with fresh fruit or a drizzle of maple syrup.
This creamy breakfast option is filling and provides a tropical taste to start your day. It’s easy to make and can be prepared in advance for busy mornings.
Coconut milk rice pudding is a creamy, comforting dessert you can easily make at home. It combines the rich flavors of coconut milk with tender rice for a tropical twist on classic rice pudding.
To make it, simmer rice with coconut milk, sugar, and spices like cinnamon. Some recipes also add a touch of lemon zest for brightness. The result is a thick, fragrant pudding with a hint of sweetness.
You can customize your coconut rice pudding by adding toppings. Try a sprinkle of cinnamon, some shredded coconut, or fresh fruit. Golden raisins are another tasty addition.
This dessert is ready in about 20-30 minutes, making it perfect for a quick treat. It’s also a great way to use up leftover rice.
Coconut milk cheesecake is a creamy, tropical twist on the classic dessert. You’ll love its rich flavor and smooth texture.
To make it, mix graham cracker crumbs with shredded coconut for the crust. Press this into a springform pan and bake briefly.
For the filling, beat cream cheese until fluffy. Add sugar, cornstarch, and vanilla. Mix in eggs one at a time, then blend in coconut milk and sour cream.
Pour the filling over the crust and bake until set. Let it cool, then chill in the fridge. Top with whipped cream and toasted coconut flakes before serving.
This dessert is perfect for coconut lovers and anyone looking for a unique cheesecake experience.
Coconut milk macarons offer a delightful twist on the classic French treat. These light, airy cookies feature a crisp exterior and chewy center.
To make them, you’ll mix shredded coconut with sweetened condensed coconut milk and vanilla extract. Whip egg whites separately until stiff peaks form.
Gently fold the egg whites into the coconut mixture. Drop spoonfuls onto a lined baking sheet and bake at 325°F for about 25 minutes.
The result is a golden-brown cookie with a rich coconut flavor. Serve these sweet treats as a dessert or afternoon snack with tea or coffee.
Coconut milk tofu stir-fry is a tasty dish that combines crispy tofu with creamy coconut sauce. You’ll start by frying extra-firm tofu until golden brown.
Next, sauté veggies like cabbage, mushrooms, and carrots in a pan. Add ginger, garlic, and spices for extra flavor.
Pour in coconut milk and let it simmer with the vegetables. Add the fried tofu pieces and coat them in the sauce.
For more variety, try adding spinach or tomatoes near the end of cooking. A squeeze of lime juice can brighten up the flavors.
This quick and easy meal is perfect for weeknight dinners. Serve it over rice or noodles for a filling vegetarian option.
Coconut milk quinoa offers a tasty twist on plain quinoa. You can make this dish with just three ingredients: uncooked quinoa, full-fat coconut milk, and water.
To prepare it, combine the quinoa, coconut milk, and water in a pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes until the liquid is absorbed.
This creamy side dish pairs well with Asian-inspired meals, curries, and stir-fries. You can add extra flavor by stirring in some lime zest after cooking.
Coconut milk quinoa is both vegan and gluten-free. It’s a filling option that keeps you satisfied for hours.
Coconut milk noodles are a tasty and creamy dish you can make at home. To prepare them, cook your favorite noodles according to the package instructions.
While the noodles cook, make a simple sauce by heating coconut milk with garlic, ginger, and your choice of seasonings. You can add curry paste for extra flavor.
Drain the cooked noodles and mix them with the coconut milk sauce. For protein, consider adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
Garnish your coconut milk noodles with fresh herbs like cilantro or basil. You can also add vegetables like bell peppers or edamame for extra nutrition and crunch.
Coconut milk popsicles are a tasty treat for hot summer days. You can make them easily at home with just a few ingredients.
Start by blending coconut milk, sweetener, and vanilla in a blender. Pour the mixture into popsicle molds and freeze for 4-6 hours.
For extra flavor, add fruit like blueberries, mango, or banana to the molds before pouring in the coconut mixture. You can also mix in shredded coconut for texture.
These popsicles are dairy-free and can be made with low sugar. They’re a refreshing dessert you can enjoy guilt-free.
You can make a creamy and indulgent hot chocolate using coconut milk. Start by heating coconut milk in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in cocoa powder and your choice of sweetener until well combined.
Add dark chocolate chips and stir until melted. For extra flavor, you can include a dash of vanilla extract or cinnamon. Keep whisking until the mixture is smooth and heated through.
Pour the coconut milk hot chocolate into mugs and enjoy. You can top it with whipped cream or marshmallows if you like. This dairy-free treat is perfect for cold days or anytime you want a rich, chocolatey drink.
Coconut milk Alfredo sauce is a creamy, dairy-free alternative to traditional Alfredo. You can make it in just 15 minutes with a few simple ingredients.
Start by melting butter in a pan over medium heat. Add coconut milk and tapioca flour, whisking until the mixture thickens. Cook for one minute, then turn off the heat.
For extra flavor, add minced garlic to the pan before the coconut milk. You can also include nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste.
Serve your coconut milk Alfredo sauce over pasta cooked slightly firmer than al dente. The sauce will continue to thicken as it cools, so you may need to thin it with a little pasta water.
Coconut milk mocha is a delicious twist on the classic coffee drink. You can easily make it at home with a few simple ingredients.
Start by brewing a strong cup of coffee or espresso. Mix in some cocoa powder and coconut sugar to taste.
Pour in coconut milk for a creamy, dairy-free base. Stir well to combine all the flavors.
You can enjoy this drink hot or over ice for a refreshing treat. Top with whipped coconut cream and toasted coconut flakes for extra indulgence.
This coconut milk mocha offers a tropical flair to your regular coffee routine. The subtle coconut flavor pairs wonderfully with the rich chocolate and coffee notes.
This tasty drink combines the earthy flavor of matcha with creamy coconut milk. To make it, sift matcha powder into a mug to remove lumps. Add hot water and whisk vigorously for about 30 seconds until frothy.
Pour in coconut milk and whisk again to mix well. You can enjoy this latte hot or over ice for a refreshing cold version. Adjust the amounts of matcha, coconut milk, and water to suit your taste preferences.
For extra flavor, try adding a touch of sweetener or a hint of mint. This energizing beverage offers a great alternative to coffee, providing a gentle caffeine boost along with antioxidants from the matcha.
Coconut milk waffles offer a tasty twist on a breakfast classic. To make them, mix flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar in a bowl. In another bowl, whisk eggs, coconut milk, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract.
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ones and stir until just combined. Don’t overmix. Let the batter rest for 10 minutes while your waffle iron heats up.
Cook the waffles according to your waffle maker’s instructions. They’re done when golden brown. Serve warm with toppings like fresh fruit, whipped cream, or maple syrup.
These waffles have a subtle coconut flavor that pairs well with many toppings. You can even add shredded coconut to the batter for extra texture and taste.
Coconut milk granola adds a tropical twist to your breakfast routine. You can easily make it at home with a few simple ingredients.
Start by mixing oats, shredded coconut, nuts, and spices in a large bowl. Warm coconut oil and a sweetener like honey or maple syrup in a pan.
Pour the warm liquid over the dry ingredients and mix well. Spread the mixture on a baking sheet and bake at 325°F for about 20 minutes.
Stir occasionally while baking to ensure even browning. Let the granola cool completely before storing in an airtight container.
Enjoy your homemade coconut milk granola with yogurt, fruit, or as a snack on its own. The coconut flavor adds a delicious touch to this crunchy treat.
Coconut milk risotto is a creamy, flavorful twist on traditional risotto. You’ll need Arborio rice, coconut milk, vegetable stock, onion, garlic, and coconut oil.
Start by sautéing chopped onions in coconut oil until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook briefly. Stir in the Arborio rice to coat it with oil.
Gradually add warm vegetable stock and coconut milk, stirring constantly. This process takes about 20-25 minutes. The rice will absorb the liquid and become creamy.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. For extra flavor, you can add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or peas. Serve your coconut milk risotto hot as a delicious main dish or side.
Coconut milk tapioca pudding is a creamy, tropical dessert you can easily make at home. Start by soaking small tapioca pearls in coconut milk for about 30 minutes.
Next, heat the mixture in a saucepan with sugar and salt. Simmer gently for 15 minutes, stirring often. The tapioca pearls will become transparent as they cook.
For extra richness, whisk in an egg yolk. Keep stirring until the pudding thickens. Let it cool before serving.
Top your pudding with fresh mango chunks and toasted coconut flakes for added flavor and texture. A sprinkle of lime zest can give it a zesty kick.
Health Benefits Of Coconut Milk
Coconut milk offers several health advantages. It’s packed with nutrients, helps boost your immune system, and supports good digestion.
Rich In Nutrients
Coconut milk contains many essential nutrients your body needs. It’s high in vitamins C, E, and B complex. These vitamins help keep your cells healthy and support your metabolism.
Coconut milk also provides important minerals. You’ll find iron, selenium, sodium, calcium, and phosphorus in this creamy drink. These minerals play key roles in bone health, blood cell production, and fluid balance.
The medium-chain fatty acids in coconut milk are a great energy source. Your body can easily absorb and use these fats for fuel. This makes coconut milk a good choice for quick energy boosts.
Boosts Immunity
Drinking coconut milk can help strengthen your immune system. It contains lauric acid, a compound with strong germ-fighting properties.
Lauric acid turns into monolaurin in your body. This substance can help fight off harmful viruses, bacteria, and fungi. Regular intake may help you ward off common illnesses.
The vitamin C in coconut milk also supports immune function. It helps produce white blood cells, which are crucial for fighting infections. Vitamin C also acts as an antioxidant, protecting your cells from damage.
Supports Digestive Health
Coconut milk can be good for your gut. Its healthy fats aid in nutrient absorption. This helps your body make the most of the vitamins and minerals in your food.
The medium-chain fatty acids in coconut milk have antimicrobial effects. They may help balance the good and bad bacteria in your gut. This can lead to better digestive health and less stomach upset.
For some people, coconut milk is easier to digest than dairy milk. It’s lactose-free, making it a good option if you’re sensitive to dairy products. Just be sure to choose unsweetened varieties to avoid added sugars.
Cooking Tips For Using Coconut Milk
Coconut milk can enhance many dishes with its rich, creamy texture and tropical flavor. Here are some useful tips to help you get the most out of this versatile ingredient.
Choosing The Right Type
You’ll find two main types of coconut milk in stores: canned and carton. Canned coconut milk is thicker and better for cooking. It comes in full-fat and light versions. Full-fat works best for curries and desserts. Light coconut milk is good for soups and smoothies.
Carton coconut milk is thinner and often has added water and stabilizers. It’s great for drinking, cereal, or coffee. When baking, stick with canned coconut milk for the best results.
Always shake the can well before opening. The thick cream often separates from the liquid.
Storage And Shelf Life
Unopened canned coconut milk lasts for 2-5 years in your pantry. Once opened, transfer any leftover milk to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for 4-6 days.
You can freeze coconut milk for up to 3 months. Pour it into ice cube trays for easy portioning. Thaw in the fridge overnight when ready to use.
Carton coconut milk usually needs refrigeration after opening. Use it within 7-10 days.
If your coconut milk smells sour or looks moldy, throw it out. It’s not safe to use.
Substituting Coconut Milk In Recipes
You can swap coconut milk for dairy milk in many recipes. It works well in baked goods, sauces, and soups. The flavor will be slightly different, but the texture will be similar.
For savory dishes, use unsweetened coconut milk. In desserts, you might need to adjust the sugar if using sweetened coconut milk.
When replacing heavy cream, use full-fat canned coconut milk. For a lighter option, try mixing equal parts coconut milk and water.
In smoothies or drinks, coconut milk can replace dairy milk one-to-one. It adds a tropical twist to your favorite blends.
Culinary Uses Of Coconut Milk
Coconut milk adds rich flavor and creamy texture to many dishes. You can use it in savory meals, sweet treats, and tasty drinks.
Savory Dishes
Coconut milk is a key ingredient in many curries. You can make a quick chickpea curry with canned chickpeas, coconut milk, and spices like garam masala and turmeric. It’s tasty and easy to prepare.
For a seafood option, try a South Indian fish curry. Mix coconut milk with tamarind and curry leaves for a tangy sauce. Use any white fish like cod or tilapia.
Coconut rice is simple to make. Just swap water for coconut milk when cooking rice. It pairs well with many Asian and tropical dishes.
Desserts
Coconut milk makes desserts extra creamy. Use it to make dairy-free ice cream or pudding.
For a tropical twist, add coconut milk to fruit-based desserts. It works well in mango or pineapple treats.
You can also bake with coconut milk. Try using it in cakes, cookies, or pie fillings for added richness.
Beverages
Coconut milk is great in smoothies. Blend it with fruits like banana or mango for a creamy drink.
Make a Puerto Rican coquito by mixing coconut milk with rum and other milks. It’s a festive holiday drink.
For a non-alcoholic option, try Thai iced tea with coconut milk instead of dairy. Or make a simple iced latte by adding coconut milk to cold brew coffee.
Cassie brings decades of experience to the Kitchen Community. She is a noted chef and avid gardener. Her new book "Healthy Eating Through the Garden" will be released shortly. When not writing or speaking about food and gardens Cassie can be found puttering around farmer's markets and greenhouses looking for the next great idea.
