How to choose the best coconut milk?

How to choose the best coconut milk? Coconut milk has become popular thanks to its health benefits and daily uses. But do you know how to choose the best coconut milk? Read this article for more information.

What is coconut milk?

Coconut milk is not milk in the dairy sense, but it is close to the level of creaminess. It is a rich, shock-white liquid that adds flavor and richness to soups, curries and other dishes. Usually coconut milk is used for smoothies and cereal, but you can also use it for cooking which comes in a can.

How to choose the best coconut milk? Coconut milk is a rich, shock-white liquid that adds flavour to other dishes

The canned coconut milk that you see in most supermarkets is coconut meat that has been mixed and blended with water until it is smooth. When you open the can, you will see a layer of solid white stuff at the top, which is the richest part of the equation, known as coconut cream. It contains more fat and protein than the milky-looking liquid below. Because of that, a quality can of coconut milk should have a fair amount of coconut cream at the top. Also, you should buy the unsweetened one. You can shake the can up to combine the cream and milk, or just stir them in a pot when you cook. So, How to choose the best coconut milk?

Coconut milk can bring a lot of benefits as long as you get the right one. It can add flavor and richness to braised meats (like chicken thighs or slow-roasted short ribs) or soup, curry, etc... It is a rich, delicious, plant-based staple and can be included in many of your favourite recipes. So what are the benefits of coconut milk? Let’s figure out below.

The health benefits of coconut milk

How to choose the best coconut milk? - Coconut milk brings lots of nutritional benefits

Coconuts are highly nutritious, that’s why coconut milk can bring a lot of  nutritional benefits.

• It is rich in fiber.
• It provides a lot of important nutrients like C, E, B1, B3, B5, and B6.
• It contains necessary minerals such as iron, calcium, and magnesium.
• For those who are lactose intolerant or who are vegans, coconut milk is a luscious, plant-based alternative to cow’s milk.
• It contains medium chain fatty acids, which are easily absorbed into your body and don’t raise the cholesterol like other saturated fats.
• The medium chain fatty acids can lower cholesterol and blood pressure, so it is good for heart health. In addition to that, it can lower your risk of a heart attack or stroke.

How coconut milk is made?

Coconut milk is made by removing the coconut meat from the coconut fruits and then soaking it for a bit. Afterwards, the thickest, fattiest part of the coconut-coconut cream rises to the top. This is used mostly in desserts. It’s skimmed off the top and then sold as coconut cream while the remaining coconut milk is strained a few times and is canned to sold. There is another form of coconut milk which is fresh, but it isn’t for cooking. Instead, it’s used in cereal, coffee, or smoothies. So, 

How to choose the best coconut milk for cooking?

Now we will provide some tips on how to choose the best coconut milk.

#1: Cans mean chemicals

When it comes to canned products, you might worry that they contain BPA which can cause developmental and reproductive problems. Likewise, products labeled as "BPA-free" may not be any better. As a matter of fact, BPS-a common alternative to BPA, may be even more harmful than BPA. Fortunately, when you buy the canned culinary coconut milk product from Betrimex, you will be assured with the quality of it.

#2: Avoid sulfites

Coconut milk may also contain preservatives like sulfites, which can cause allergies such as sneezing, headache, runny nose, tightness in the throat, hives, and asthma attacks. So when you buy coconut milk, try to avoid the product that has this ingredient.

#3: Go for the organic one

When it comes to food or cooking, choosing organic is always a good idea. Be aware that coconut milk often contains guar gum, a commonly used stabilizer. Guar gum is used to stabilize coconut milk, making it smooth and creamy. However, it’s made from guar beans and is not harmful for your health. At Betrimex, you can get canned organic coconut milk which contain organic coconut, organic guar gum, and purified water.

How to choose the best coconut milk? - Organic products are always the best option

What should you consider before buying carton coconut milk?

The carton coconut milk doesn’t do well in cooking. Instead, it is used in your morning granola, coffee, or you can just drink it by the glass. Below are some tips for you to choose the best one.

#1: Choose organic products

Again, organic coconuts are always the best option. Make sure you read the ingredients before buying or look for the USDA seal on the carton.

#2: Avoid added sugars

Go for the “unsweetened” products instead of those that use added sweeteners or flavorings such as vanilla or chocolate.

#3: Avoid carrageenan

Carrageenan is extracted from red seaweed and is used as a common additive in plant milks. It may cause cancers and digestive problems so you should avoid it when purchasing coconut milk product. However, many brands of carton coconut milk in the market still contain it. Betrimex uses organic coconuts and does not contain carrageenan which is a good option for you.

How to make coconut milk at home?

If you still worry about the quality of canned coconut milk, you can use fresh shredded, unsweetened coconut to make your own one. The main ingredients that you need are filtered water and unsweetened coconut shreds. Firstly, combine coconut with hot (but not boiling) water in a blender. Then blend for three minutes, or until you get a smooth and creamy mixture. Next, strain through a cheesecloth. Then strain again and squeeze through the remaining liquid. This fresh coconut milk is only available within four days. It is best used for drinking, and you can add flavour that you like.

As you can see, coconut milk is healthy and useful. With some tips above, we hope you can choose the best coconut milk for your family. If you are still confused, visit https://www.betrimex.com.vn/en to get the best coconut products.