I've written a lot before about some of the dodgy coconut milk on the shelves of your local health food store. You really have to check the ingredients carefully, it's near impossible to find one without the mysterious “guar gum”, not to mention stabilizers, emulsifiers and a host of chemicals I'd rather not consume. If you want to learn more about some of the dodgy ingredients, you'll need to read this. So whilst you can find the odd brand without all of the added nasties, it's surprisingly easy to make your own DIY coconut milk. You just need a bit of time!
Recipe: DIY Coconut Milk
This DIY coconut milk recipe is simple, natural, and perfect for your paleo lifestyle. Free from additives, it's a healthier alternative to store-bought options.
Prep Time4 hours hrs 15 minutes mins
Total Time4 hours hrs 15 minutes mins
Course: Drinks
Cuisine: Basic, Paleo
Keyword: DIY Coconut Milk, Homemade Coconut Milk, Paleo Coconut Milk
Servings: 2 Serves
Calories: 180kcal
Cost: $4
- 1 cup coconut flakes
- 4 cups distilled water
Soak the Coconut Flakes: First, soak the coconut flakes for about four hours in the distilled water. This will soften the flakes and make them easier to blend.
Blend the Mixture: Once the flakes have gone mushy in the water, put them in your blender, and blend for a few minutes until you achieve a smooth and evenly mixed texture.
Strain the Mixture: Then, strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a fine sieve. Using a cheesecloth is much easier on the washing-up than a sieve!
Store: Finally, store the coconut milk in an airtight container in the fridge and use within three days or so.
Oh - and the contents of the cheesecloth? Don’t waste it! You can use the leftover coconut pulp in your paleo baking!
Making your own coconut milk is not only healthier but also rewarding. With just two simple ingredients and a bit of time, you can enjoy fresh, natural coconut milk free from any additives. Try it out and share your experience in the comments below! What do you use your homemade coconut milk for?