Contents

• Properties of coconut milk
• The use of coconut milk in the kitchen
• What should you look for when buying coconut milk?

Coconut milk is one of the most popular ingredients in Asian cuisine. It is prevalent mainly in India and Thailand, but also in South America and the Caribbean. It is made from coconut pulp. Its composition includes fatty acids, lauric acid, which is said to have antibacterial, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and immune-supporting properties, among many other valuable health-promoting benefits.

Properties of coconut milk

Coconut milk has a thick, creamy consistency that doesn't separate, a white color, and a strong coconut flavor. It is a valuable source of nutrients, minerals, and vitamins such as:

• Manganese,
• Copper,
• Phosphorus,
• Magnesium,
• Iron,
• Selenium,
• Vitamin C,
• Vitamin A,
• Vitamin E,
• Niacin,
• Folic acid ,
• Phospholipids,
• Cephalin
• Lecithin,

Coconut milk shows:

• Anti-inflammatory effect – the presence of short-chain fatty acids contributes to the relief of chronic inflammation associated with rheumatism and autoimmune diseases.
• protective effect on ulcers of the mucous membranes of the gastrointestinal tract and also helps to relieve the associated pain,
• Antiviral and antibacterial effects – thanks to its lauric acid content. Coconut milk helps reduce the risk of infection. Lauric acid effectively protects the body against flu and herpes viruses.

The use of coconut milk in the kitchen

Coconut milk is one of the basic ingredients of oriental cuisine. It is added to Thai soup, tom yam soup, Indian curry, and shrimp. Its sweet flavor perfectly softens the spicy taste of Asian dishes. Coconut milk can be used to thicken all kinds of soups and sauces, giving them a wonderfully creamy consistency. It is a great alternative to dairy products of animal origin in vegetarian and vegan cuisine. It can be successfully used as a cream substitute in both savory dishes and desserts. It can be whipped like cream, used in smoothies, cocktails, or as a base for vegan ice cream, or added to oatmeal. It is also suitable for baking and frying various types of pancakes.

Coconut milk is also a good option for people with lactose intolerance. However, it's important to remember that full-fat coconut milk definitely has more calories than cow's milk. Coconut milk is also available.

confused with coconut water, the liquid found inside the coconut.

What should you look for when buying coconut milk?

First, we should pay attention to the ingredients. The simpler, the better. It should preferably contain coconut extract and water. It should not contain any flavorings or sugar. Canned coconut milk contains more coconut extract than cartoned milk, and it is higher in calories and fat. Cartoned milk usually has a significantly poorer composition than canned milk (although not always), often contains less coconut extract, is additionally flavored, and contains unnecessary additives.