The Ultimate Guide to Finding the Best Liquid Coconut Milk

Did you know that the fat content in coconut milk can range from under 5% in carton varieties to over 20% in some canned versions? Finding the best liquid coconut milk is crucial, as the right choice can make the difference between a rich, creamy curry and a watery disappointment.

Quick Summary

This guide compares top brands and formats to help you choose the right coconut milk for your specific needs. Understand the key differences between canned and carton varieties, ideal uses for each, and the factors to consider before purchasing.

Key Points

• Canned vs. Carton: Canned coconut milk is thicker, richer, and ideal for cooking, while carton milk is thinner, milder, and best for beverages.

• Top Brands for Cooking: Aroy-D (UHT carton) is highly rated for authentic Asian curries, while Native Forest (canned) is a top pick for desserts and organic, gum-free options.

• Check the Ingredients: For the cleanest flavor and texture, look for brands with minimal additives like guar gum and xanthan gum.

• For Whipped Cream: Use a high-fat canned coconut milk that has been refrigerated overnight to easily separate the thick cream for whipping.

• Best for Coffee: Carton coconut milk from brands like So Delicious is specifically formulated for a smooth, mild addition to coffee or smoothies.

• Storage: Once opened, transfer unused coconut milk to an airtight container and refrigerate. Freezing is possible but may alter the texture.

Canned vs. Carton: Understanding the Core Difference

Not all coconut milk is created equal, and the primary distinction lies in its packaging: canned or carton. This difference impacts consistency, flavor, and best applications. Canned varieties are heat-treated more aggressively, which can subtly alter the flavor, while carton milks are UHT-treated for a fresher taste.

Canned Coconut Milk for Creaminess and Cooking

Canned coconut milk is the traditional choice for cooking and baking where a rich, creamy texture and robust coconut flavor are desired. It has a higher fat content, which often separates into a thick, solid cream and a thinner liquid when chilled. This makes it perfect for:

• Rich curries and stews
• Indulgent desserts like custards and ice cream
• Making vegan whipped cream (using the separated cream)

Carton Coconut Milk for Lightness and Drinking

Typically found in the refrigerated or shelf-stable beverage aisle, carton coconut milk has a significantly higher water content and a thinner, more pourable consistency. The flavor is generally milder and less concentrated. This format is best suited for:

• Blending into smoothies
• Adding to cereal or coffee
• As a dairy-free beverage

Top Brands for Different Applications

Your choice of brand should align with your culinary goal. Here are some of the most highly-rated liquid coconut milks on the market.

Best for Curries and Sauces: Aroy-D (UHT Carton)

Widely regarded as one of the best for authentic Asian cuisine, Aroy-D (in the UHT carton) is praised for its high coconut content and rich, pure flavor with minimal additives. It performs beautifully in curries, creating a luxurious, velvety consistency that doesn't split easily.

Best for Whipped Cream and Desserts: Native Forest (Canned)

For those seeking a clean, organic option, Native Forest offers a thick, velvety canned coconut milk that separates cleanly into a rich cream and liquid. This makes it a top choice for making luscious vegan whipped cream or thick, decadent puddings. It is often free from gums and fillers, which contributes to a pure flavor and texture.

Best All-Purpose Canned: Trader Joe's Organic Coconut Milk

Epicurious praised Trader Joe's Organic Coconut Milk for its balanced flavor and smooth, even consistency. It is a versatile canned option that works well across a range of savory and sweet recipes without being overly thick or watery, allowing other ingredients to shine.

Best for Coffee: So Delicious Dairy Free (Carton)

For coffee drinkers, brands that specialize in carton beverages are the way to go. So Delicious offers a smooth, drinkable coconut milk with a milder flavor that won't overpower your coffee. These are designed to blend seamlessly and pour easily, avoiding the separation issues of canned varieties.

Factors to Consider When Buying

Ingredients List

Quality coconut milk often has a short ingredient list: coconut and water. Many brands add stabilizers and emulsifiers like guar gum, xanthan gum, and polysorbate 60 to prevent separation. While not necessarily harmful, these additives can create an unnaturally thick, sometimes gluey, texture. For the purest experience, look for gum-free options.

Fat Content

The fat content is the main driver of texture and richness. Full-fat canned coconut milk provides the decadent creaminess needed for curries and desserts, while lighter versions (both canned and carton) are better for a more delicate flavor profile and for weight-conscious cooking.

Comparison Table: Popular Liquid Coconut Milk Brands

Brand	Format	Best For	Additives	Key Notes
Aroy-D	UHT Carton	Thai Curries, Savory Dishes	Minimal (sometimes includes Polysorbate 60)	High coconut content, closest to fresh taste.
Native Forest	Canned	Whipped Cream, Desserts	Often Gum-Free	Thick, organic, separates well for cream.
Trader Joe's Organic	Canned	All-Purpose Cooking	Yes (Gums)	Balanced consistency, fresh coconut flavor.
Thai Kitchen	Canned	Light Soups, Mild Curries	Yes (Gums)	A bit thinner, may not separate for whipping.
So Delicious	Carton	Coffee, Smoothies, Cereal	Yes	Mild flavor, designed for beverage use.

How to Get the Most Out of Your Liquid Coconut Milk

• For rich, separated cream: Place your can of full-fat coconut milk in the refrigerator overnight. The cream will solidify at the top, allowing you to scoop it out for desserts or whipped cream.
• For a smooth consistency: If you need a consistent texture for curries or sauces, shake the can or carton vigorously before opening to re-emulsify the fat and water.
• Extend shelf life: Once opened, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and use within a week. If you need to prolong its life, freezing it in an ice cube tray is an option, though it may become grainy upon thawing.
• Go homemade: For the freshest taste, consider making your own liquid coconut milk. Many recipes involve blending coconut meat or flakes with hot water.

Conclusion: Your Ultimate Choice for the Best Liquid Coconut Milk

Ultimately, the best liquid coconut milk is a matter of personal preference and intended use. For rich, authentic curries and thick desserts, the high-fat content of quality canned options like Native Forest or Aroy-D is ideal. If you're looking for a low-fat, mild-flavored beverage for your coffee or smoothies, carton varieties such as So Delicious are the better choice. By considering the format, ingredient list, and fat content, you can confidently select the perfect coconut milk for any recipe. For in-depth reviews and taste-tests, publications like Epicurious or America's Test Kitchen can be valuable resources for making your final decision.

Helpful Tips for Using Liquid Coconut Milk

• Check the ingredients: Prioritize products with fewer additives like gums for a cleaner texture and flavor.
• Match the format to the use: Choose canned for rich curries and desserts, and carton for thinner, drinkable applications like coffee and smoothies.
• Store refrigerated: For the best results when making whipped cream, chill your full-fat canned coconut milk overnight.
• Know your flavor: Canned coconut milk generally has a more robust coconut flavor, while carton versions are milder.
• Shake before using: If a smooth, consistent liquid is needed, always shake the can or carton well before opening to prevent separation.

What is the best liquid coconut milk?

Ultimately, the best liquid coconut milk is a matter of personal preference and intended use. For rich, authentic curries and thick desserts, high-fat content canned options like Native Forest or Aroy-D are ideal. If you're looking for a low-fat, mild-flavored beverage for your coffee or smoothies, carton varieties such as So Delicious are the better choice. By considering the format, ingredient list, and fat content, you can confidently select the perfect coconut milk for any recipe. For in-depth reviews and taste-tests, publications like Epicurious or America's Test Kitchen can be valuable resources for making your final decision.

How to get the most out of your liquid coconut milk

• For rich, separated cream: Place your can of full-fat coconut milk in the refrigerator overnight. The cream will solidify at the top, allowing you to scoop it out for desserts or whipped cream.
• For a smooth consistency: If you need a consistent texture for curries or sauces, shake the can or carton vigorously before opening to re-emulsify the fat and water.
• Extend shelf life: Once opened, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and use within a week. If you need to prolong its life, freezing it in an ice cube tray is an option, though it may become grainy upon thawing.
• Go homemade: For the freshest taste, consider making your own liquid coconut milk. Many recipes involve blending coconut meat or flakes with hot water.

What is the best liquid coconut milk?

Ultimately, the best liquid coconut milk is a matter of personal preference and intended use. For rich, authentic curries and thick desserts, high-fat content canned options like Native Forest or Aroy-D are ideal. If you're looking for a low-fat, mild-flavored beverage for your coffee or smoothies, carton varieties such as So Delicious are the better choice. By considering the format, ingredient list, and fat content, you can confidently select the perfect coconut milk for any recipe. For in-depth reviews and taste-tests, publications like Epicurious or America's Test Kitchen can be valuable resources for making your final decision.

Helpful tips for using liquid coconut milk

• Check the ingredients: Prioritize products with fewer additives like gums for a cleaner texture and flavor.
• Match the format to the use: Choose canned for rich curries and desserts, and carton for thinner, drinkable applications like coffee and smoothies.
• Store refrigerated: For the best results when making whipped cream, chill your full-fat canned coconut milk overnight.
• Know your flavor: Canned coconut milk generally has a more robust coconut flavor, while carton versions are milder.
• Shake before using: If a smooth, consistent liquid is needed, always shake the can or carton well before opening to prevent separation.

Conclusion: Your ultimate choice for the best liquid coconut milk

Ultimately, the best liquid coconut milk is a matter of personal preference and intended use. For rich, authentic curries and thick desserts, high-fat content canned options like Native Forest or Aroy-D are ideal. If you're looking for a low-fat, mild-flavored beverage for your coffee or smoothies, carton varieties such as So Delicious are the better choice. By considering the format, ingredient list, and fat content, you can confidently select the perfect coconut milk for any recipe. For in-depth reviews and taste-tests, publications like Epicurious or America's Test Kitchen can be valuable resources for making your final decision.

Outbound Link: Epicurious reviews different coconut milk brands.

Your Ultimate Choice for the Best Liquid Coconut Milk

In conclusion, the best liquid coconut milk is a matter of personal preference and intended use. For rich, authentic curries and thick desserts, high-fat content canned options like Native Forest or Aroy-D are ideal. If you're looking for a low-fat, mild-flavored beverage for your coffee or smoothies, carton varieties such as So Delicious are the better choice. By considering the format, ingredient list, and fat content, you can confidently select the perfect coconut milk for any recipe. For in-depth reviews and taste-tests, publications like Epicurious or America's Test Kitchen can be valuable resources for making your final decision.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between coconut milk and coconut cream?

Coconut cream is thicker, richer, and contains less water than coconut milk. Both are made from the same process, but coconut cream has a higher fat content, making it ideal for desserts, while coconut milk is more versatile for cooking and drinking.

Can I use carton coconut milk for cooking curries?

While technically possible, it is not recommended for rich, authentic curries. Carton coconut milk has a higher water content and is thinner, which can result in a less creamy and flavorful dish. Use canned, full-fat coconut milk for the best results.

How do I make whipped cream with canned coconut milk?

To make vegan whipped cream, refrigerate a can of full-fat coconut milk overnight. This causes the solid cream to separate from the liquid. Scoop out only the thick, hardened cream into a mixing bowl and whip with a hand mixer until light and fluffy.

Why did my coconut milk separate in the can?

Separation of solid cream and liquid is a natural process in many canned, full-fat coconut milks, especially when refrigerated. The fat solidifies while the water remains liquid. This is an indicator of a good quality product with fewer emulsifiers.

What's the best coconut milk for coffee?

For coffee, carton-packaged coconut milk is generally best. It is designed to be thinner, mixes well, and has a milder flavor that won't overpower your coffee.

Is full-fat or light coconut milk better for me?

The 'better' option depends on your dietary goals. Full-fat coconut milk is higher in calories and saturated fat, but contains beneficial medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs). Light coconut milk has less fat and fewer calories, but may also have less flavor and richness. For most applications, unsweetened is recommended to control sugar intake.

How should I store leftover coconut milk?

Transfer any unused coconut milk to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. While freezing is possible, it can lead to a grainy texture upon thawing, making it best for cooking rather than drinking.