Coconut Milk is a sweet, milky cooking base derived from the meat of a mature coconut. It is usually prepared by simmering grated coconut meat in water, straining the mixture, and squeezing the grated coconut through cheesecloth. The term "coconut milk" does not refer to the watery liquid found inside the nut; this is called "coconut water" or "coconut juice."

Coconut milk is a common ingredient in many tropical cuisines, most notably Southeast Asian (especially Thai, Malaysian, and Sri Lankan ), West Indian , and Polynesian cuisines. Coconut milk can usually be found in the Asian food sections of supermarkets either frozen or canned. Frozen coconut milk tends to stay fresh longer, which is important in dishes where the coconut flavor is not competing with curries and other spicy dishes.

Depending on the brand and age of the milk itself, a thicker, more paste-like consistency floats to the top of the can, and is sometimes separated and used in recipes that require coconut cream rather than coconut milk. Shaking the can prior to opening will even it out to a cream-like thickness.

Coconut milk is the base of most Thai curries. To make the curry sauce, the coconut milk is first cooked over fairly high heat to break down the milk and cream and allow the oil to separate. The curry paste is then added, as well as any other seasonings, meats, vegetables and garnishes.

Open cans of coconut milk must be refrigerated, and are usually good for a few days. Never leave an open can at room temperature, as the milk can sour and spoil easily.

Dishes

Thai dishes made with coconut milk

• Red curry
• Green curry
• Tom kha gai
• Satay
• Sticky rice
• Tapioca pudding

Malaysian dishes made with coconut milk

• Laksa
• Nasi lemak

Sri Lankan dishes made with coconut milk

• Spicy chicken curry
• Tomato sambol
• Green bean curry

West Indian dishes made with coconut milk

• Rice and peas
• Callaloo

Hawaiian dishes made with coconut milk

• Haupia (a gelatin-like pudding flavored with coconut milk)
• Kulolo
• Lu'au (taro leaves simmered in coconut milk)