What can I substitute for coconut milk?
Running low on coconut milk? Here are the best verified substitutes, including how to adjust your measurements.
About coconut milk
Coconut milk is a rich, creamy liquid extracted from the grated flesh of mature coconuts, distinct from coconut water. It is widely used in South-East Asian, South Asian, and Caribbean cuisines to add body, subtle sweetness, and a characteristic tropical flavour to curries, soups, and desserts. Its high fat content, derived from coconut cream, gives it a luscious texture that makes it an excellent dairy-free base for both savoury and sweet dishes.
Best substitute
coconut cream (diluted)
Coconut cream is a thicker, richer concentrate of coconut milk and can be diluted with water to replicate the consistency of full-fat coconut milk. It delivers the same flavour profile and fat content, making it the closest possible substitute.
Mix ¾ cup coconut cream with ¼ cup water to make 1 cup coconut milk
curriessoupsbakingdessertssauces
Alternative
full-fat oat milk
Full-fat oat milk provides a comparable creamy consistency and mild sweetness, making it a reasonable dairy-free substitute in most applications. It lacks coconut flavour, so a small amount of coconut extract can be added if needed.
Use 1 cup for every 1 cup — add ¼ tsp coconut extract for flavour if desired
bakingsmoothiessoupsdessertsNot suitable for: authentic curry basesNot suitable for: high-heat sautéing
Alternative
What is coconut milk called in other countries?
| Country | Name |
|---|---|
| Australia | coconut milk |
| Canada | coconut milk |
| New Zealand | coconut milk |
| United Kingdom | coconut milk |
| United States | coconut milk |
Common names for coconut milk
santangatakatinali ka doodh