So many recipes, like easy tikka masala, use just half a tin of coconut milk or even less. It can feel like a crying shame when you throw out the better part of a can, but there's some good news for thrifty cooks. It's possible to freeze coconut milk, so there's no need to throw away a perfectly good ingredient. Read on for the best way to freeze coconut milk, helping you cut down on food waste, save money and organise your cooking plans.
Coconut milk vs coconut cream: what's the difference?
Coconut milk and coconut cream are very similar ingredients, and it's easy to get them confused. In fact, they're both made the same way: they're a mixture of grated coconut flesh and water. However, the ratios are different. As the names might suggest, coconut cream has a higher fat content because it contains more coconut. This gives it a thicker texture and richer taste, while coconut milk is thinner and pours like dairy milk. Both ingredients are used in South and Southeast Asian cooking, and the benefits of coconut milk can also be found in coconut cream — just keep an eye on the calories!
When it comes to freezing and food storage, the two ingredients behave identically. You can freeze both of them in airtight containers for up to three months.
Why freeze leftover coconut milk
Many recipes use just a small amount of coconut milk, especially if you're only cooking for one or two. If you regularly cook Thai curry recipes or make a lot of smoothies, you may have experienced this already. Coconut milk tends to be sold in cans of 400ml, so if you don't use it all up quickly, you'll end up throwing it out.
When you freeze coconut milk, you extend its shelf life, avoid food waste and save money. There's no need to buy a whole new can when you've still got half a can waiting for you in the freezer.
How to freeze leftover coconut milk for later use
It's very easy to freeze both coconut milk and coconut cream. Firstly, pour it into an airtight, freezer-safe container, or alternatively, you can use an ice cube tray. This is actually a really effective freezing technique, as ice cube-sized portions defrost quickly, and you can use just a small amount at a time.
Frozen coconut milk will keep well for up to three months. You can still use it for up to six months, but the longer it stays in the freezer, the more likely it is to suffer from loss of texture or flavour. As a general rule, it's best to practise freezer rotation and try to use up ingredients quickly.
Thawing coconut milk and what to expect
When you defrost coconut milk, it will separate. Don't panic, as this is natural and will always happen because of the high fat content. It's still fine to use in cooking, and dishes like curried coconut chickpea pilaf can still turn out perfectly.
If the change in texture worries you, try these techniques to make it creamy and smooth again: let it defrost completely, then either heat gently while stirring, or pulse it briefly with a stick blender.
Tips on using frozen coconut milk in everyday cooking
You don't actually need to defrost coconut milk before cooking with it. Simply save time by cooking it straight from frozen. When you're making a dish like a Thai or Indonesian-style coconut chicken curry, simply add the frozen coconut milk to the simmering sauce and cook, stirring, until it defrosts and melts.
The change in texture is more noticeable if you serve it raw, so don't use frozen coconut milk to make smoothies or breakfast bowls. Instead, use it in cooked dishes such as this grilled coconut chicken and lentil curry, and you won't be able to tell the difference.
Coconut milk storage and shelf life
If you don't freeze coconut milk, then decant it from the can to an airtight container and store it in the fridge. It'll keep for around four days. When kept in the fridge, it will usually solidify, so take it out half an hour before you plan to use it and give it a good stir.
When you're just cooking for one or two, leftover ingredients can often be a problem. Careful freezer rotation and storage can help combat this. Using a food box service is another easy solution, as each week you'll be sent the exact amount of ingredients you need for your recipes, so you won't have to worry about using up half-empty cans and packets.
Freezing coconut milk FAQs
Can you freeze coconut milk after opening?
Yes. To freeze coconut milk, transfer it from the tin to an airtight, freezer-safe container. If you have just a small amount or want to freeze it in mini portions, you can freeze it in an ice cube tray.
How long does frozen coconut milk last?
It's best to use frozen coconut milk within three months. It'll still be safe to use for up to six months, but the longer it stays in the freezer, the more its texture and flavour may deteriorate.
Why does coconut milk separate after freezing?
Coconut milk is very high in fat, so it will separate in the freezer. This is normal and doesn't indicate that it has gone off. It's still safe to cook with, although you may want to blend it for 30 seconds for a smoother texture.
Can you freeze coconut cream?
Yes. Follow the same steps for freezing coconut cream as for freezing coconut milk. First, pour it into an airtight, freezer-safe container (or an ice cube tray), then freeze and use within three months.
Can frozen coconut milk be used in curry?
Yes. In fact, you can add it to a curry without defrosting first. This is particularly easy if you've frozen it in an ice cube tray. Add the chunks to the curry as it cooks and stir until they melt.