Coconut milk is a versatile and creamy ingredient that adds a rich, tropical flavor to a variety of dishes. Whether you’re making a savory curry, a smooth smoothie, or a decadent dessert, having a reliable 1/2 cup coconut milk recipe vegan in your culinary toolkit is essential.
This simple recipe not only highlights the natural creaminess of coconut milk but also keeps it entirely plant-based, making it perfect for vegans and those with dairy sensitivities.
In this post, we’ll explore how to create a luscious 1/2 cup of homemade coconut milk using just a few natural ingredients. You’ll learn why this recipe stands out, what you need to prepare it, and how to use it in your everyday cooking.
Plus, we’ll share some handy tips and delicious serving suggestions to inspire your next meal. Ready to dive into the tropical goodness of coconut milk?
Let’s get started!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This 1/2 cup coconut milk recipe vegan is a game-changer for anyone looking to enjoy creamy, dairy-free milk without additives or preservatives. It’s:
- Simple and quick: Requires minimal ingredients and takes just minutes to prepare.
- Customizable: You can adjust the thickness and sweetness to suit your taste and recipe needs.
- Versatile: Perfect for curries, soups, smoothies, baking, and even vegan coffee creamer.
- Nutritious: Packed with healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals from fresh coconut.
- Budget-friendly: Homemade coconut milk is more economical than many store-bought brands.
Plus, it’s free from preservatives, stabilizers, and added sugars, making it a wholesome choice for your vegan lifestyle.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup fresh shredded coconut (unsweetened, preferably organic)
- 1 cup warm water (not boiling)
- Optional: 1 teaspoon maple syrup or agave (for a touch of sweetness)
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract (for added flavor)
Equipment
- Blender (high-speed recommended for smooth milk)
- Fine mesh strainer or nut milk bag (to strain the milk)
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Jar or bottle for storage
Instructions
- Prepare the coconut: Measure 1/2 cup of fresh shredded coconut. If using dried, unsweetened coconut flakes, soak them in warm water for 10 minutes to soften.
- Combine ingredients: Add the shredded coconut and 1 cup of warm water to the blender. If you’re adding maple syrup or vanilla extract, include them now.
- Blend thoroughly: Blend on high speed for 2-3 minutes until the mixture is creamy and smooth. The coconut should be well pulverized to extract maximum milk.
- Strain the milk: Pour the blended mixture through a fine mesh strainer or nut milk bag into a mixing bowl. Use a spoon or your hands to press and squeeze out as much liquid as possible.
- Store your coconut milk: Transfer the freshly made milk to a jar or bottle. Keep refrigerated and use within 3-4 days for best freshness.
- Optional – Use the leftover pulp: Don’t discard the coconut pulp! Use it in baking recipes, smoothies, or to make coconut flour. It’s a great way to reduce waste.
Tips & Variations
“For creamier milk, decrease the amount of water slightly, or use chilled water for a refreshing cold milk.”
- Adjust thickness: Use less water for a thicker cream, ideal for curries and desserts, or more water for a lighter milk, perfect for drinking and smoothies.
- Add flavors: Experiment with a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom for a spiced coconut milk twist.
- Use canned coconut: If fresh coconut isn’t available, blend 1/4 cup canned unsweetened coconut cream with 3/4 cup water for a similar effect.
- Sweeten naturally: Use dates, soaked and blended with the coconut for a natural sweetener alternative.
- Storage tip: Coconut milk separates in the fridge; just shake well before use to recombine.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per 1/2 cup | % Daily Value* |
---|---|---|
Calories | 90 | 5% |
Total Fat | 8g | 12% |
Saturated Fat | 7g | 35% |
Carbohydrates | 2g | 1% |
Dietary Fiber | 1g | 4% |
Sugars | 0g | — |
Protein | 1g | 2% |
Calcium | 10mg | 1% |
Iron | 0.6mg | 3% |
*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
Serving Suggestions
This homemade coconut milk is incredibly versatile. Here are some delicious ways to enjoy it:
- In curries: Use it as a creamy base for your favorite vegan curries and stews.
- Smoothies: Blend it with tropical fruits like mango, pineapple, and banana for a refreshing drink.
- Baking: Substitute it for dairy milk in cakes, muffins, and breads like in our Vegan Bread Machine Recipe for Soft, Delicious Loaves.
- Soups: Add richness to vegetable soups such as in the Low Calorie Vegetable Soup Recipe for Healthy Eating.
- Hot drinks: Use it as a creamy vegan creamer in coffee or tea.
- Desserts: Incorporate it into puddings, ice creams, or our Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious for a moist texture.
Conclusion
Making your own 1/2 cup coconut milk vegan recipe at home is a rewarding and simple process that brings fresh, natural flavor to your dishes. Not only does it allow you to control the ingredients, but it also connects you more deeply with the food you eat.
This recipe is perfect for anyone following a vegan lifestyle or those seeking dairy-free alternatives without sacrificing taste or texture.
With just fresh coconut and water, you can create a creamy, versatile milk that enhances everything from savory meals to sweet treats. Give this method a try and discover how easy it is to elevate your cooking and baking.
For more inspiring vegan recipes, be sure to explore our collection like Peruvian Vegetable Recipes for Flavorful Healthy Meals and others linked throughout this post. Enjoy the luscious world of coconut milk in your kitchen today!
📖 Recipe Card: Vegan Coconut Milk Curry
Description: A creamy and flavorful vegan curry made with 1/2 cup coconut milk. Perfect for a quick, healthy meal packed with spices and vegetables.
Prep Time: PT10M
Cook Time: PT20M
Total Time: PT30M
Servings: 3 servings
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup coconut milk
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 medium carrot, sliced
- 1 cup chopped bell peppers
- 1 cup chickpeas, cooked
- 1 teaspoon curry powder
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Sauté onion, garlic, and ginger until fragrant.
- Add carrot and bell peppers, cook for 5 minutes.
- Stir in curry powder and turmeric.
- Add chickpeas and coconut milk, simmer for 10 minutes.
- Season with salt and garnish with cilantro before serving.
Nutrition: Calories: 250 kcal | Protein: 6 g | Fat: 15 g | Carbs: 20 g
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