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Homemade coconut milk is lighter and more flavorful than the industrialized one. Discover how to make coconut milk in the best style

Edited and resized image of Amanda Vick is available on Unsplash

Knowing how to make coconut milk is a great way to get a fresh, flavorful ingredient free of industrial thickeners, preservatives and emulsifiers. Homemade coconut milk is lighter and more flavorful than industrialized ones and can be used in sweet and savory recipes, in hot or cold temperatures. You can do smoothies, coffees, shakes, moqueca, creams, white sauce, among other recipes. Best of all, coconut milk is packed with health benefits as well as being a lactose-free, vegan alternative.

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Coconut Milk Benefits

About 93% of coconut milk's calories come from fats considered good, such as medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which are saturated fats. It is also a good source of vitamins and minerals. A cup (240 grams) contains:

• Calories: 552
• Fat: 57 grams
• Protein: 5 grams
• Carbohydrates: 13 grams
• Fiber: 5 grams
• Vitamin C: 11% of the RDI (Recommended Daily Intake)
• Folate: 10% of the IDR
• Iron: 22% of the IDR
• Magnesium: 22% of the IDR
• Potassium: 18% of the IDR
• Copper: 32% of the IDR
• Manganese: 110% of the IDR
• Selenium: 21% of the IDR

There is evidence that the fats in coconut milk can help to lose weight and improve metabolism, have beneficial effects on cholesterol, heart health, stomach ulcers, and protect the body against viruses and bacteria. To learn more about the benefits of coconut milk and see studies about it, take a look at the article: "Coconut milk: uses and benefits".

How to make coconut milk

Edited and resized image by Diana Kulenyuk is available on Unsplash

Ingredients

• 1 dry coconut (also called copra)
• 3 cups of hot water

Method of preparation

1. Remove the water from the dry coconut and set aside;
2. Preheat the oven to medium temperature and let the coconut roast for 15 minutes;
3. Wait for the coconut to cool and then remove the shell with the aid of a hammer and a spoon or knife;
4. To the reserved coconut water, add filtered water until you reach the amount of three cups in total (coconut water plus filtered water);
5. Cut the coconut pulp into small pieces and beat with hot water (little) in a blender until it has a smooth texture;
6. Strain with a strainer of voil, cloth or very fine sieve. Is ready!