In the Philippines, coconut milk or "gata" is more than just an ingredient—it's a culinary staple. Far from being a mere trend, it's deeply rooted in our culture. Its creamy texture and subtle nutty flavor make it irreplaceable in sweet and savory dishes, shaping many traditional recipes.
Jump to:
- What is coconut milk?
- Coconut milk vs. Coconut cream
- Are coconut water and milk the same?
- What does coconut milk taste like?
- Can you use coconut cream instead of coconut milk?
- Is coconut milk good for you?
- Buying coconut milk
- Storing coconut milk
- Filipino recipes with coconut milk
- Other ingredient guides you may like
- 💬 Comments
What is coconut milk?
Coconut milk is not the liquid found inside a coconut (often mistaken as 'coconut water') but rather a creamy, white liquid extracted from the flesh of mature coconuts (niyog).
The process begins by grating coconut meat and mixing it with minimal water or none at all. It is squeezed out, separating the liquid from the residual solids. The result is a rich, concentrated liquid with a pronounced coconut flavor and nutty aroma.
After the first pressing, the already-pressed coconut meat is mixed with warm water and pressed for the second or third time to extract a thinner, more diluted milk.
Coconut milk vs. Coconut cream
In many places worldwide, coconut milk and coconut cream are distinct products. However, in the Philippines, the terminology can be more nuanced. "Coconut milk" can refer to either the "first press" or the succeeding press of the coconut meat.
First press or extract ("kakang gata")
This is the initial pressing of the grated coconut meat with minimal or without any additional water. It results in a thick, concentrated liquid that contains a higher proportion of coconut oil.
In other regions, this is often labeled as "coconut cream." To maximize its rich flavor and texture, it's added during the last part of cooking to prevent oil separation.
Second or third Press
After the first extraction, the already-pressed coconut meat is mixed with warm water and pressed again to yield a thinner, more diluted liquid. This is often referred to as "coconut milk" and is less concentrated than the first press.
Are coconut water and milk the same?
No, coconut water and coconut milk are not the same. Coconut milk is a white liquid extracted from grated coconut meat, primarily used in cooking.
Coconut water is a slightly cloudy liquid from young coconuts. It's a hydrating drink rich in minerals such as potassium, magnesium, and calcium. Besides being enjoyed as a beverage, it's also used in dishes like Buko Pandan Salad.
What does coconut milk taste like?
Coconut milk has a delicate, creamy texture with a subtle sweetness. It's less intense than coconut cream but brings a light, tropical flavor to dishes.
Coconut cream, or the "first press," has a richer taste with a thicker consistency. Its pronounced coconut flavor is subtly sweet and creamy, with an almost velvety mouthfeel.
In the Philippines, coconut milk is primarily used for cooking. The version sold as a beverage in many Western grocery stores differs from the traditional Filipino cooking variety.
Coconut milk beverage is more diluted, less creamy, and sometimes contains added sweeteners or flavors, making it suitable for drinking straight or as an alternative to dairy milk, but not used in cooking.
Can you use coconut cream instead of coconut milk?
Yes, but there are a few things to consider. Coconut cream is richer and has a thicker consistency, so you might need to dilute it with water to mimic the texture of coconut milk.
Because it's higher in fat with a more pronounced flavor, it can make dishes richer. This can be great for some recipes but not for others. If you're cooking with it, go easy on the heat to prevent it from separating.
Is coconut milk good for you?
Coconut milk, like other plant-based milk, is naturally lactose-free, making it a great option for those who are lactose intolerant. According to Healthline, it also provides these remarkable health benefits:
- Rich in Medium Chain Triglycerides (MCTs): It is a type of fat metabolized differently than other fats. MCTs go straight from the digestive tract to the liver, which may be used as a quick energy source or turned into ketones. Some studies suggest that MCTs can aid in weight loss.
- Vitamins and Minerals: It provides essential nutrients such as manganese, which supports bone health and metabolizes carbohydrates, proteins, and cholesterol, as well as potassium and magnesium.
- Heart Health: Some research indicates it could help maintain healthy cholesterol levels. However, consuming it in moderation is essential due to its high calorie and saturated fat content.
- Antioxidant Properties: It can neutralize harmful free radicals by preventing cell damage and reducing the risk of various diseases.
- Digestive Health: The MCTs can also support gut health due to their anti-inflammatory properties and ability to fight bacteria and viruses.
- Immune System Boost: It contains lauric acid, a type of MCT that can kill harmful pathogens like bacteria, viruses, and fungi, potentially helping to stave off infections.
While there are numerous health benefits, it has potential downsides. High in saturated fats, excessive consumption can elevate cholesterol levels, heightening the risk of heart ailments.
Some people may also have coconut allergies, manifesting in reactions from mild hives to severe anaphylaxis. As with many foods, moderation and understanding personal sensitivities are key.
Buying coconut milk
Fresh is always best. If unavailable, canned or carton alternatives are good choices, readily found at Asian grocery stores, health food outlets, and major supermarkets.
- Choose one with 'coconut milk' as the first ingredient, reflecting its high coconut content and rich taste. Aim for products with minimal ingredients and avoid unnecessary additives. It's common to find water and a preservative in the mix. Some brands also incorporate guar gum, a stabilizer ensuring consistent texture and preventing separation.
- Aroy-D, Chaokoh, and Mae Ploy are reputable brands known for their quality. However, it's always a good idea to try different brands to see which one you prefer in terms of flavor and consistency.
- Steer clear of added sugars and excessive additives. Be cautious of "light" or "lite" coconut milk and coconut milk beverages; these are often watered down, lack the rich flavor, and are typically not ideal for cooking.
Storing coconut milk
Fresh coconut milk
Freshly squeezed coconut milk should be refrigerated and consumed within 1-2 days. If you've opened a container of store-bought fresh coconut milk, transfer any leftovers to a sealed container and refrigerate for optimal freshness.
Canned or carton coconut milk
Unopened cans or cartons should be stored in a cool, dry place until expiration. Once opened, transfer the unused portion to a sealed container and refrigerate. It's best to use it within 4-5 days. Give it a good stir or shake before using, especially if separation has occurred.
Filipino recipes with coconut milk
Coconut milk is a staple ingredient in many Filipino dishes, used in savory and sweet preparations. Here are some of our favorites:
- Adobo sa Gata: A variation of the classic Pork Adobo or Chicken Adobo, this dish incorporates coconut milk for a creamier sauce.
- Bicol Express: A regional dish with shrimp paste cooked with coconut milk, plenty of chilies, and some pork. It is spicy, creamy, and flavorful with a stew-like consistency.
- Laing: A creamy, savory dish with dried taro leaves cooked with coconut milk and shrimp paste.
- Dinuguan: A pork blood stew with meat and offal, simmered in vinegar and coconut milk.
- Ginataang Manok: Chicken stewed in coconut milk with aromatics, and green papaya.
- Ginataang Hipon: Shrimp with coconut milk, long hot peppers, and vegetables like squash and yardlong beans. Ginataang Langka and Ginataang Ampalaya are delicious variations.
- Ube Halaya: Purple yam jam made with mashed or grated ube, coconut or evaporated milk, and condensed milk.
- Cassava Cake: Also known as Cassava Bibingka, it is a baked dessert made with grated cassava, coconut milk, and condensed milk.
- Suman: Rice cakes wrapped in banana leaves made with glutinous rice, sugar, and coconut milk. Suman sa Lihiya is a variation with lye water, served with latik sauce made with coconut milk. Cassava suman is similar, made with grated cassava.
- Ginataang Bilo-Bilo: A dessert made with glutinous rice flour shaped into small balls, cooked in coconut milk and other ingredients like cassava, ube, saba bananas, jackfruit, and sago.
- Champorado: A creamy rice porridge made with tablea (cocoa tablets) and coconut milk or another type of dairy.
- Ginataang Kamoteng Kahoy: A sweet and creamy dessert or snack made by simply boiling cassava with coconut milk and sugar.
- Ginataang Mais: A sweet porridge made from glutinous rice, sweet corn kernels, and coconut milk.
- Maja Blanca: A creamy coconut pudding made with cornstarch, coconut milk, and sweet corn kernels. It's often topped with latik, grated cheese, or toasted coconut.
- Espasol: Cylindrical, powdery rice cakes made with glutinous rice flour and coconut milk, with optional mix-ins like pinipig, grated mature coconut, or macapuno. Ube Espasol is an ube-flavored variety.
- Ube Kalamay: A purple rice cake made with ube, glutinous rice flour, sugar, and coconut milk, then topped with latik.
- Sorbetes: A Filipino type of ice cream, traditionally made with unique flavors Filipinos love, such as ube, avocado, and mango with cheese.
- Latik: These are caramelized coconut curds that are slightly sweet and nutty, used as a topping or garnish for various Filipino desserts.
Other ingredient guides you may like
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Nestor G.
Nothing beats the flavor of freshly squeezed coconut milk. But here in the US, i’ve learned to appreciate the ones in cans or cartons. I get to cook my favorite meals from my childhood.
Nora Rey
I totally get you! While nothing can replace the flavor of freshly squeezed coconut milk, those cans and cartons are a convenient way to recreate those cherished childhood meals. It's amazing how food can bring back those nostalgic memories. Enjoy your cooking journey down memory lane! 😊🥥🍲