Coconut cream is a thick, rich liquid extracted from grated mature coconut flesh. It’s commonly used in cooking and baking, especially in Southeast Asian, Caribbean, and Latin American cuisines. Here are some culinary uses for coconut cream:
- Curries: Adds richness and depth of flavor to Thai, Indian, and Caribbean curries.
- Soups: Enhances the creaminess and tropical flavor in soups like tom kha gai or coconut pumpkin soup.
- Desserts: Used in recipes for custards, puddings, and ice creams.
- Beverages: Blended into smoothies or cocktails like piña coladas for a creamy texture.
- Sauces: Forms the base for creamy sauces, often paired with seafood or poultry.
- Baking: Substitute for dairy cream in vegan baking or to add a tropical twist to cakes and pastries.