7 Delicious Coconut Cream Recipes to Try Now

Unlocking the Versatility of Coconut Cream

Coconut cream is a culinary treasure that packs a punch of rich flavor and creamy texture, making it an excellent ingredient in a wide range of recipes. Beyond its use in traditional Thai curries and sweet treats, coconut cream can transform both savory and dessert dishes with its unique taste and properties. Let’s explore some delightful coconut cream recipes that can elevate your culinary adventures.

1. Coconut Cream Curry Chicken

Coconut cream adds depth and a subtle sweetness to curries, creating a silky-smooth sauce that pairs wonderfully with the spice of chilies and the tender texture of chicken.

• 2 lbs of boneless chicken, cut into chunks
• 1 can of coconut cream
• 1 tablespoon curry powder
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• Spices to taste: turmeric, coriander, cumin, ginger
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• Salt to taste

Steps:

1. Heat oil in a large pan, add garlic and onions, and cook until translucent.
2. Add chicken, browning it on all sides.
3. Stir in spices, cooking for 2 minutes to release their flavors.
4. Pour in the coconut cream, mixing well. Bring to a simmer.
5. Add bell pepper and cook until the chicken is tender and the curry is well seasoned.

✨ Note: The creaminess of coconut will mellow down the heat of the spices, making it perfect for those who appreciate a milder curry.

2. Coconut Cream Smoothie

For a refreshing and nutritious drink, blend coconut cream into a smoothie for a luscious, filling twist.

• 1 cup coconut cream
• 1 banana, frozen
• ¹⁄₂ cup pineapple chunks, frozen
• ¹⁄₄ cup spinach (optional)
• ¹⁄₂ cup coconut water
• A handful of ice

Steps:

1. Add all ingredients into a blender.
2. Blend until smooth.
3. Pour into glasses and serve immediately for best flavor.

🍓 Note: Feel free to experiment with other fruits like mango or berries for a different taste profile.

3. Coconut Cream Chocolate Mousse

A decadent, dairy-free dessert that uses coconut cream to create a light, yet creamy mousse.

• 1 can of coconut cream
• 3.5 oz dark chocolate, chopped
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup or preferred sweetener
• ¹⁄₂ teaspoon vanilla extract

Steps:

1. Refrigerate the can of coconut cream overnight to separate the cream from the milk.
2. Melt the chocolate in a double boiler or microwave, stirring until smooth.
3. Open the can, scoop out the cream (the hard, thick part), and beat it until fluffy.
4. Gently fold in the melted chocolate, sweetener, and vanilla extract until well combined.
5. Pour into serving glasses or ramekins, chill for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.

4. Coconut Cream Risotto

Risotto with coconut cream brings a new twist to a classic dish, offering a velvety, exotic touch.

• 1 cup Arborio rice
• 1 can coconut cream
• ¹⁄₂ cup white wine (optional)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups vegetable stock, heated
• Salt, pepper, and herbs to taste

Steps:

1. In a pot, sauté onions and garlic until soft.
2. Add rice, stirring until each grain is well coated with the mixture.
3. If using, pour in the wine and stir until absorbed.
4. Start adding the stock one ladle at a time, stirring until absorbed before adding the next. Continue this process.
5. When the rice is almost cooked, incorporate the coconut cream, stirring until the risotto reaches the desired creaminess.

5. Thai Coconut Soup (Tom Kha Gai)

Tom Kha Gai is a beloved Thai soup that combines lemongrass, galangal, kaffir lime leaves, and, of course, coconut cream for a harmonious blend of flavors.

• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 can coconut cream
• 1 stalk lemongrass, bruised
• 1-inch piece of galangal, sliced
• 3-4 kaffir lime leaves, torn
• 2 Thai chilies, sliced (optional for heat)
• 1 boneless chicken breast, sliced
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 2 tablespoons fish sauce
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro

Steps:

1. In a pot, combine broth, lemongrass, galangal, and kaffir lime leaves. Simmer for 10 minutes to infuse flavors.
2. Add chicken, mushrooms, chilies, and cook until the chicken is done.
3. Stir in the coconut cream, fish sauce, and lime juice. Simmer for another few minutes.
4. Remove the lemongrass and galangal before serving. Garnish with cilantro.

6. Coconut Cream Cheesecake

A dairy-free cheesecake that uses coconut cream instead of traditional cream, offering a unique flavor and texture.

• 1 ¹⁄₂ cups graham cracker crumbs or ground nuts for crust
• ¹⁄₄ cup melted coconut oil or butter
• 2 cans coconut cream, chilled overnight
• 1 cup cashews, soaked
• ³⁄₄ cup coconut sugar
• ¹⁄₄ cup coconut flour
• Juice and zest of 1 lemon

Steps:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Mix the crumbs with melted coconut oil and press into a springform pan for the crust.
2. Blend soaked cashews, coconut sugar, lemon juice, and zest until smooth.
3. Separate the cream from the milk in the chilled coconut cream, whip the cream, then fold it into the cashew mixture.
4. Pour the filling onto the crust, and bake for 50-60 minutes or until set but still jiggly in the middle.
5. Cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for several hours or overnight.

7. Coconut Cream Soup with Vegetables

This creamy soup showcases the vegetable garden with a tropical twist from coconut cream.

• 1 can coconut cream
• 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 carrot, diced
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 1 sweet potato, diced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• Herbs like thyme or rosemary for flavor

Steps:

1. Heat oil, sauté onions and garlic until golden.
2. Add carrot, sweet potato, and herbs, cooking briefly.
3. Pour in the broth and bring to a boil. Simmer until vegetables are tender.
4. Blend or mash the vegetables to your desired consistency.
5. Stir in the coconut cream, and adjust the seasoning to taste.

🌿 Note: You can add spices like curry powder or cumin for additional depth of flavor.

In wrapping up our journey through these coconut cream recipes, it becomes clear that coconut cream is more than just a substitute for dairy; it’s a culinary chameleon that can adapt to and enhance an array of dishes. From the creamy sauces that add richness to curries, to the velvety textures in desserts, coconut cream infuses each dish with a unique, exotic flavor that delights the palate. These recipes are just the beginning; the possibilities are endless, inviting you to experiment, innovate, and enjoy the versatility of coconut cream in your kitchen.

Can I use coconut milk instead of coconut cream?

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Yes, you can, but the texture will be less thick and creamy. Coconut milk has less fat content compared to coconut cream, so your dish might be slightly less rich. To make up for this, you might reduce the amount of other liquids or simmer the milk to reduce and thicken it.

How do I store leftover coconut cream?

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Store leftover coconut cream in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze it for longer storage; ensure to leave some room for expansion, and it can be kept for up to six months. Thaw in the refrigerator before use.

Is coconut cream suitable for people with dairy allergies?

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Absolutely. Coconut cream is a great dairy-free alternative. It’s derived from the meat of mature coconuts, not from dairy products, making it a safe option for those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies.

Can I make coconut cream at home?

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Yes, you can make it by blending fresh coconut meat with a little hot water, then straining the mixture to extract the cream. Alternatively, you can chill full-fat coconut milk; the cream will rise to the top and can be skimmed off.