7 unexpected ways to use a can of coconut milk

I always have a can of coconut milk in my cupboard.

Yes, I use it to make curries, but you probably already do that, right?

There are more ways to put that can of coconut milk to work for you though—ways that will turn the humble can of coconut milk into a permanent staple in your pantry.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Make a creamier pureed soup

Any pureed vegetable or bean soup can be made creamier, richer, and more delicious by the addition of coconut milk.

Get this recipe: Green Lentil Soup with Curried Brown Butter

Add flavor and moisture to cakes

Use coconut milk as the liquid in a cake to add a nice richness and coconut flavor.

Get this recipe: Coconut Cake with Chocolate Chunks and Coconut Drizzle

Make dairy-free ice creams and custards

Whether you need a dairy-free ice cream or custard for the lactose intolerant or just want to feature tropical flavors, coconut milk makes a great custard base to turn into ice cream or flan. You can sub in canned coconut milk instead of milk in most custard recipes.

Get the recipe: Coconut Flans with Coffee Caramel

Infuse grains with flavor

For any rice or grain, swap out half the water for canned coconut milk to infuse the cooked grain with a nice subtle coconut flavor. While you’re at it, add some aromatics to your cooking liquid if you want to deepen the flavor: cinnamon sticks, lemongrass stalks, curry leaves, or lemon rind all work great with coconut milk.

Get the recipe: Coconut Rice

Add to fruit for an almost instant dessert

A little sugar and a quick chill over an ice bath or in the freezer can turn a can of coconut milk into an ideal accompaniment for fresh fruit or berries. Anything you’d serve with a pour of heavy cream, go ahead and try with coconut milk instead.

Get the recipe: Honeydew Melon in Coconut Milk

Turn into Dulce de Leche

You’ll need two cans for this one, and it’s sure to become your new favorite ice cream topping or filling for sandwich cookies.

Get the recipe: Coconut Dulce de Leche

Use as a braising liquid

Try braising any fish in coconut milk. Salmon is especially nice, and shrimp works great too. Or, use it as a cooking liquid for hearty greens like collards or kale to add fat and flavor without bacon or butter.

Get the recipe: Collard Greens Braised in Coconut Milk