Coconut-based products have been gaining popularity in the recent past, and for good reason too! Coconut cream and cream of coconut are two such products that usually leave people scratching their heads as to what to substitute one for the other. While they may sound the same, the two products differ not just in terms of their nutritional content or calorie count, but also in flavor and consistency.
Whether you’re making a piña colada, a smoothie, or a curry, it’s crucial to understand the difference between coconut cream and cream of coconut, and how they can be used interchangeably. In this article, we’ll delve deeper into the differences between these two coconut-based products, and explore the ways in which you can substitute one for the other, without compromising on taste and texture.
What is coconut cream and cream of coconut?
Coconut cream and cream of coconut are both derived from the flesh of mature coconuts. Coconut cream is the thick, white liquid extracted from the grated flesh of the coconut using a cheesecloth or fine mesh strainer. It has a rich coconut flavor and is commonly used in Asian and Caribbean cuisine to add creaminess to curries, soups, and desserts.
On the other hand, Cream of coconut is a sweetened version of coconut cream that comes in a can or a squeeze bottle. It is commonly used in tropical cocktails like Piña Coladas and is sweeter than coconut cream because it has added sugars and stabilizers. As such, it varies from brand to brand, with some being thicker and richer than others. Understanding the differences between these two coconut-based ingredients is crucial when it comes to determining if they can be interchanged in recipes.
Differences between coconut cream and cream of coconut
Coconut cream and cream of coconut are two products derived from the same source, the flesh of coconuts. However, they differ considerably in terms of composition and usage. Coconut cream is a thick and creamy liquid made by boiling coconut meat in water and then straining the mixture. It has a mild coconut flavor and a high-fat content, ranging from 17% to 24%. Coconut cream is often used in both sweet and savory dishes, including curries, soups, and desserts. It is also a popular vegan substitute for dairy cream.
In contrast, cream of coconut is a sweetened and thickened version of coconut cream that is used primarily in desserts and cocktails. It is made by adding sugar, stabilizers, and flavors to coconut cream. The resulting product is rich, sweet, and perfect for making pina coladas, coconut cakes, and other tropical treats. Cream of coconut can be found in cans or bottles in most supermarkets. It is important to note that coconut cream and cream of coconut cannot be used interchangeably in recipes, as they have vastly different taste and consistency profiles.
Can coconut cream be used as a substitute for cream of coconut?
If you’re a fan of coconut, then you’ve probably heard of cream of coconut and coconut cream. Although they both come from the same fruit, they’re not interchangeable in recipes. Cream of coconut is thick, sweetened coconut milk usually used in cocktails like piña colada. Coconut cream, on the other hand, is a thick rich and creamy dairy-free alternative that’s perfect for curries or vegan desserts.
Despite their differences, you can substitute coconut cream for cream of coconut in some recipes. But there are a few things to keep in mind. First, you’ll need to add sugar to the coconut cream to achieve the same sweetness as cream of coconut. Second, coconut cream is thicker than cream of coconut, so you may need to add coconut water or coconut milk to thin it out. It’s also important to note that the flavor of the final product may differ when making such substitutions, so it’s best to taste as you go along to ensure you’re happy with the result.
How to substitute coconut cream for cream of coconut in recipes
Coconut cream and cream of coconut are confusing terms, and many people use them interchangeably. But, as we have mentioned earlier, these two ingredients are not the same, and their uses in recipes are different. If you don’t have cream of coconut, don’t worry; you can always substitute it with coconut cream and still achieve great results.
To use coconut cream in place of cream of coconut, you’ll need to add sugar to the former to get the right sweetness. Start by adding 2 tablespoons of sugar to a 1/2 cup of coconut cream and mix well. Taste the mixture and add more sugar as needed. You can also make a homemade cream of coconut by mixing coconut cream with simple syrup or sugar water. Do a one-to-one ratio of coconut cream to simple syrup and adjust the sweetness to your liking. With these simple steps, you can enjoy delicious coconutty flavors in your recipes using either coconut cream or cream of coconut.
Tips for using coconut cream as a substitute for cream of coconut
Coconut cream can be a great substitute for cream of coconut in recipes. However, it’s essential to keep a few things in mind before substituting one for the other. One primary difference between the two is the sweetness level. Cream of coconut is much sweeter than coconut cream. Therefore, when using coconut cream as a substitute, you’ll need to add some sweetener to achieve the desired sweetness level. You can use sugar or any other sweetener of your choice to balance the flavor.
Additionally, it’s crucial to blend the coconut cream before using it to get a smooth and consistent texture. Coconut cream can also be thick and may not be the best option for recipes with a lot of liquid. In such cases, you may need to dilute the coconut cream with some coconut water or milk. By following these tips, you can make the best use of coconut cream as a substitute for cream of coconut and enhance the flavor of your recipes.
Recipes that use coconut cream instead of cream of coconut
Coconut cream can be a great substitute for cream of coconut, especially if you’re looking for a healthier option. Here are some tasty recipes that use coconut cream instead of cream of coconut:
1. Coconut Curry Chicken: This delicious curry uses a blend of coconut cream, ginger, garlic, and curry powder to create a rich and flavorful sauce that is perfect for chicken. Serve over rice for a satisfying and filling meal.
2. Coconut Cream Pie: Who says you need to use cream of coconut to make a delicious coconut cream pie? This recipe uses a blend of coconut cream and heavy cream to create a rich and creamy filling. Top with toasted coconut flakes for some added texture and flavor.
3. Thai Coconut Soup: This soup is packed with flavor and uses coconut cream to create a creamy and delicious base. Add in some shrimp, veggies, and spices for a hearty and flavorful meal. Serve with crusty bread for a complete meal.
Other alternatives to cream of coconut for those with dietary restrictions.
For those who are unable to consume cream of coconut due to dietary restrictions, there are several alternatives to consider. One option is to use coconut milk, which is similar in texture to cream of coconut but has a lower fat content and is less sweet. Coconut milk can be used in a 1:1 ratio as a substitute for cream of coconut in recipes.
Another alternative is to use a non-dairy milk such as almond or soy milk, and sweeten it with a vegan sweetener such as agave or maple syrup. This will provide a similar flavor to cream of coconut without the coconut cream or added sugars. It’s important to note that these substitutes may alter the taste and texture of the final dish, so it’s best to experiment and adjust accordingly.
The Bottom Line
In conclusion, substituting coconut cream for cream of coconut is possible, but it is important to keep in mind that they have different consistencies and sweetness levels. Coconut cream is thicker and less sweet, while cream of coconut is typically sweetened with sugar and has a thinner consistency.
When substituting coconut cream for cream of coconut in a recipe, it is recommended to adjust the sweetness and thickness by adding sugar or water if needed. It is also important to check the label of the coconut cream to ensure it does not contain any added sugar or thickeners. Overall, with a bit of experimentation and adjustment, substituting coconut cream for cream of coconut can result in a delicious and healthier alternative.