Thursday, November 1, 2012

Tell The Difference Between Coconut Milk Coconut Cream And Coconut Water

Piña coladas are made with coconut cream.








Many products, such as butters, oils, flours and creams, can be produced from coconuts. For some cultures, the coconut is the staple of the diet and economy. In fact, it has been called "The Tree of Life" by Pacific Islanders, who not only thrive on the consumption of coconuts, but also use coconuts medicinally. In the United States, coconut products are often used in recipes. Coconut water, coconut milk and coconut cream are three coconut products sold in the United States.


Instructions


1. Look at the consistency of the liquid. If the consistency is extremely liquid and thin, like water, then it is coconut water. Coconut water is the liquid found inside coconuts. It is often sold at stores as a refreshing drink in bottles or small juice boxes. Coconut water can also be mixed in cocktail punches as a substitute for water. Coconut water has a very light flavor, and sometimes contains chunks of coconut meat.


2. See if the consistency is like a thick milk. This would be coconut milk. Coconut milk is made by pressing the flesh from fresh coconuts. About half of coconut milk is coconut, while the other half is water. Coconut milk contains more nutrients than coconut water, and tastes much richer as well. This milk can be substituted for cow milk in cooking recipes, and occasionally mixed into tropical drinks. Coconut milk can be found in powdered form, which is sometimes called for in curry recipes.


3. Look at the consistency to see if it is much thicker and gel-like when room temperature. If it is a does have a gel-like consistency, it is coconut cream. Coconut cream will have a slightly runnier consistency, like that of runny yogurt, when it is warm. Because coconut cream has added sugar and a fat percentage of about 24 percent from coconut oil content, it tastes extremely rich and creamy. Coconut cream is a popular ingredient in many tropical cocktails. You can also use coconut cream as a spread, topping or creamer.

Tags: coconut cream, Coconut water, Coconut cream, coconut milk, coconut milk coconut, coconut products, consistency like