How Many Ounces Are in a Standard Can of Coconut Milk?
When a recipe calls for a can of coconut milk, it is almost always referring to the standard size, which contains 13.5 to 14 fluid ounces. This is the equivalent of about 400 milliliters, making it a globally recognized and convenient unit for many culinary applications, especially in Southeast Asian and Indian cooking. While 13.5 or 14 ounces is the most frequent measurement, it is crucial to check the label, as some brands may vary slightly. Larger cans, such as 25.5 ounces, are also available for recipes that require more volume or for bulk cooking.
Why the Small Variation in Ounce Count?
The difference between a 13.5-ounce can and a 14-ounce can is minor, and for most recipes, the two are interchangeable. This slight variation often comes down to different manufacturing and labeling practices between brands and countries. For instance, a 400-milliliter can is roughly 13.5 fluid ounces, while a 410-milliliter can is closer to 14 fluid ounces. Both sizes serve the same purpose in a home kitchen, and the small disparity in volume will not noticeably affect the outcome of most dishes, such as a curry or a coconut-based dessert.
Coconut Milk vs. Coconut Cream: What's the Difference?
It is important to note the distinction between canned coconut milk and canned coconut cream. While they come from the same source (the meat of mature coconuts), the main difference lies in the concentration of fat and water. Coconut cream is thicker, with a higher fat content, making it ideal for desserts, rich sauces, and whipping. Coconut milk is thinner and more versatile, suitable for a wider range of savory and sweet dishes. Can sizes can vary for both, so always double-check whether your recipe specifies milk or cream.
Understanding Fluid Ounces vs. Ounces by Weight
In the context of liquid ingredients like coconut milk, "ounces" typically refers to fluid ounces. This measures volume, which is what most recipes and can labels indicate. A fluid ounce of a substance does not always weigh exactly one ounce, as weight is dependent on density. While this distinction is usually not critical for standard recipes, it is worth knowing for precise conversions or advanced culinary applications. Always follow the label instructions for the most accurate measurement.
Tips for Using a Can of Coconut Milk
To get the most out of your can of coconut milk, consider the following preparation and storage tips:
- Shake Well: Before opening, it is often recommended to shake the can vigorously. Canned coconut milk naturally separates into a thick, fatty layer (the cream) at the top and a thinner liquid at the bottom. Shaking helps recombine these layers for a uniform consistency.
- Chill for Cream: If your recipe specifically calls for coconut cream, place the can in the refrigerator overnight without shaking. The cream will solidify at the top, allowing you to easily scoop it out separately from the thinner milk.
- Storage: Once opened, unused coconut milk should be transferred to an airtight, non-metal container and refrigerated. It will typically keep for 5 to 7 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it in an ice cube tray or an airtight container.
Comparison of Common Coconut Milk Can Sizes
| Feature | Standard 13.5–14 oz Can | Large 25.5 oz Can |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Use | Recipes for 2–4 people, curries, soups, desserts | Bulk cooking, large batches, commercial kitchens |
| Volume | 13.5 to 14 fl oz (~400 ml) | 25.5 fl oz (~750 ml) |
| Equivalent Volume | Approx. 1 ⅔ cups | Approx. 3 ⅛ cups |
| Availability | Widely available in most grocery stores | Available at some large grocery stores or specialty markets |
| Shelf Life (Unopened) | Years, if stored properly in a cool, dry place | Years, if stored properly |
Conclusion
The next time you're cooking with canned coconut milk, remember that a standard can is almost always between 13.5 and 14 fluid ounces. By understanding this common measurement and being aware of larger sizes, you can confidently choose the right product for your recipe. Paying attention to the slight variations between brands and knowing the difference between coconut milk and cream will help ensure that your dishes are a delicious success, every time.
More Coconut Milk Variations
Beyond the traditional canned options, you might encounter other forms of coconut milk. These include reduced-fat versions, which have less fat and a thinner consistency, and coconut milk in cartons, which is typically a beverage and is much thinner than the cooking-grade canned version. Always read labels carefully to make sure you have the right product for your intended use.
Quick Conversions for Recipes
- 1 standard 13.5 oz can ≈ 1 ⅔ cups
- For a 25.5 oz can, you will get about 3 cups
- For a 400 ml can, it's about 1.69 cups
These approximations can be very helpful when a recipe calls for cups rather than a full can, allowing for accurate scaling and preparation.
