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What is coconut milk?

By , About.com Guide

Coconuts

Coconuts

© 2007 Peggy Trowbridge Filippone
Question: What is coconut milk?
What is coconut milk? Is it the liquid inside the coconut?
Answer: If you've ever opened a fresh coconut, you will have seen the thin, opaque almost clear coconut juice or water which has a slight almond flavor. Contrary to popular belief, this is not the coconut milk.

However, the coconut water is consumed as a drink fresh from the coconut by many, and it can also be used in recipes.

Coconut milk is actually a combination of equal parts of shredded coconut and water, simmered and then strained through cheesecloth, squeezing out as much of the essence of the pulp as possible.

You can find canned coconut milk and cream in most markets along with canned fruit juices or try your hand at making your own.

Do not confuse sweetened "cream of coconut" (used for desserts and mixed drinks) with unsweetened coconut milk or cream.

More about Coconuts and Coconut Recipes:

Coconut Selection and Storage
Coconut Forms and Availability
What is coconut milk? FAQ
Coconut History
Coconut Lore and Legends
Coconut Cream Recipe
Coconut Milk Recipe
How to Toast Coconut
Coconut Recipes
Coconuts Photo © 2007 Peggy Trowbridge Filippone, licensed to About.com, Inc.

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