SaurabhMilk is an important ingredient in everyday life. However, if you are vegan, lactose intolerant, vegan, or don’t want to use regular milk, there are many alternatives made from almonds, rice, soy, nuts, or coconut milk. In this article, we are going to learn something more about coconut milk and coconut cream.
Coconut milk can be found in 3 versions including coconut cream, coconut milk, and light coconut milk. Coconut milk is made by blending the white flesh, soaking in hot water, and then squeezed through a cheesecloth to extract the liquid.
In the inside of the young coconuts, there is a sweet, nutty water rich in potassium (more than bananas) and low in carbohydrates and sodium which makes it a great hydrating drink. Coconut water is not to be confused with coconut milk and coconut cream.
Coconut cream has a higher fat content and is thicker than coconut milk. It’s made in the same way as coconut milk but with less added water (1 part water 4 parts shredded coconut) there for its thicker and has a richer flavor.
Which one you are going to use depends only on the consistency you want to get in your dish. Now, let’s learn something more about coconut milk and cream.
What Happens When You Freeze Coconut Milk?
Freezing coconut milk is recommended for leftover milk, not for unopened packages because unopened it has a longer shelf-life.
If you want to freeze coconut milk so you could use it later, have in mind that the proteins and fat will separate from the liquid. And there may be some changes in taste and texture.
When you want to defrost the coconut milk best option is to take it out of the freezer the night before. However, if you need it right away put it in lukewarm water or microwave on defrost in a microwave-safe container and stir occasionally.
When defrosted blend it or stir it to make its structure even. It can have some changes in texture and taste. But it’s still good enough for baking, cooking, or smoothies.
How Long Does Frozen Coconut Milk Last?
Canned coconut milk once opened can last from 4-6 days in the refrigerator. Thus, f you don’t intend to use it in this period you should freeze it. Frozen coconut milk can last for up to 30 days. However, it’s good to use it sooner because its quality drops if kept longer.
How Do You Store Leftover Coconut Milk?
Leftover coconut milk can be kept in the fridge in ice cube trays or freezer-safe containers. If you don’t want to use all leftovers in one dish you can make small portions.
The containers shouldn’t be full because the milk will expand when freezing. Seal the containers label them with the date and put them in the freezer.
Another way is to pour the coconut milk into trays and put them in the freezer. If you want to reuse the trays, simply transfer the milk cubes to freezer bags or containers. This way you can use as many cubes as you need for the recipe.
Can You Freeze a Carton of Coconut Milk?
First, you should check the expiration date. If it hasn’t passed yet you can freeze it. But have in mind that milk expands when frozen. So if you are using carton-packed coconut milk it can burst in your freezer. Therefore it’s better to put it in a freezer-safe container.
What Happens if You Freeze Coconut Cream?
Coconut cream is thicker than coconut milk and has a higher fat content. It used to give the soups, stews, and marinades a smooth coconut taste. It’s also a great ingredient in desserts.
You can freeze coconut cream, the same as coconut milk. There might be a slight change in its texture. But it’s better than to throw it away.
How Do You Preserve Coconut Cream?
If you don’t use the whole package of coconut cream you can store it in the fridge for 7 days tops. If you want to make it last longer you should freeze it.
Storing in the can or carton is not recommended if it’s opened. Use airtight containers, plastic freezer bags, or ice cube trays. When you want to use the cream just stir it to get a smooth even texture.
If you want to freeze the coconut cream always use freezer-safe containers. Leave space as the cream will expand due to freezing. You can store it in your freezer for up to 6 months.
You should keep in mind that frozen coconut cream needs at least 24 hours to defrost, stir it or blend. And there you go you have your coconut cream ingredient for your recipe.
How Do You Thaw Frozen Coconut Cream?
Frozen coconut cream can be a thaw in few ways. You can either thaw it in the refrigerator. Or in the microwave, Or in lukewarm water. Or if you are using it for cooking right in the pan.
The main thing about thawing is that it should be done slowly in the fridge overnight. But if you want faster ways put the container in lukewarm water or the microwave. Check if the container is microwave-safe.
Whatever way you choose you will have to put the cream in the blender or stir it so you could have an even smooth texture.
Final Thoughts
Coconut milk and coconut cream are the same well coconut. They are both made of shredded coconut meat and water but in different amounts.
Coconut milk and coconut cream can be each other’s substitute. If you have coconut milk but want to make coconut cream all you have to do is freeze the coconut milk and then with a spoon take the cream from the top to use it for your recipe.
Want to make coconut milk from coconut cream? It’s a breeze. Mix 2 tablespoons coconut cream in ¾ cup water stir it together and you have one cup of coconut milk.
There are various brands of coconut milk and coconut cream out there. You just need to choose your favorite.
