What Is the Difference Between Coconut Milk and Coconut Cream?

Coconut milk and coconut cream are both versatile ingredients used in a variety of dishes, but their different consistencies and fat contents make them better suited for different types of recipes.

Coconut Milk

How to make?

Coconut milk is made by blending coconut flesh with water and then straining the mixture. It is a liquid with a creamy white appearance and a slightly sweet and nutty flavor. Coconut milk is often used in curries, soups, and desserts.

Where is it used?

Coconut milk is often used in Southeast Asian and Caribbean cuisine as a base for curries, soups, and stews. It can also be used in smoothies, desserts, and baked goods. In recipes that call for coconut milk, it is often added near the end of the cooking process to avoid curdling or separating.

Coconut Cream

How to make?

On the other hand, coconut cream is made by simmering four parts shredded coconut with one part water. The mixture is then strained to produce a thick, rich liquid with a higher fat content than coconut milk. Coconut cream is often used in recipes that require a thicker and creamier texture, such as in sauces, ice creams, and smoothies.

Where is it used?

Coconut cream, with its higher fat content and thicker consistency, is often used in rich and creamy sauces, such as in Thai curries or as a base for dairy-free whipped cream. It can also be used in desserts, such as custards, ice creams, and puddings. Coconut cream can also be used to thicken soups and stews, and can be whipped to make a dairy-free whipped cream substitute.

To summarize, the main difference between coconut milk and coconut cream is their fat content and consistency. Coconut milk is thinner and has a lower fat content, while coconut cream is thicker and has a higher fat content.