Coconut milk is a milky-white, opaque liquid made from the grated pulp of ripe coconuts. Coconut milk's opacity and rich flavour are attributable to its high oil content, the majority of which is saturated fat. Coconut milk is a traditional Southeast Asian, Oceanian, South Asian, and East African cuisine component. Coconuts were imported during the colonial era and are used for cooking in the Caribbean, tropical Latin America, and West Africa. Coconut milk is not to be confused with coconut water, which comes from young green coconuts. Milk, unlike coconut water, does not occur naturally. Instead, coconut milk is made by combining solid coconut flesh with water, which is around 50% water.
Here are some benefits of coconut milk-
Helps In Weight Loss
Short and medium-chain triglycerides, which are considered good fats, are abundant in coconut milk. They make you feel fuller for longer, helping you to eat less and avoid cravings. In addition, compared to longer chain fatty acids, they are more likely to be converted to energy. These are stored in the body preferentially, contributing to obesity.
Rich In Anti-Oxidants
Vitamins C and E, which are widely known for their anti-oxidant qualities, are abundant in coconut milk. During the metabolic process, our body tissues produce free oxygen radicals. They destroy cellular components and speed up the ageing and tumour formation process. Coconut milk contains antioxidants that help to counteract these toxic chemicals.
Beneficial For Hair And Skin
Coconut milk has recently acquired favour as a conditioning treatment for healthy hair. Its high-fat content functions as a moisture-retention sealant. Coconut milk reduces dandruff and scalp itching when administered to the scalp. When coconut milk is applied topically to the skin, it helps to keep the skin's suppleness. Its antimicrobial qualities are claimed to aid in the prevention of acne.
Here are some dishes you can make with coconut milk-
Chingri Malai Curry
Chingri malai curry, commonly known as prawn malai curry, is a spicy Bengali curry cooked with tiger and king prawns and coconut milk. The dish is popular in Bengal and is served at weddings and festivities. It was also popular among the British in Calcutta. Prawns and coconut milk are the key ingredients along with ghee or mustard oil, onions, turmeric powder, chopped green chilli, garlic paste, and spiced ginger paste.
Thai Chicken Curry
Thai Chicken Curry is a delectable dish made with chicken, onions, coconut milk, and seasonings. This flavorful curry's classic flavour will instantly thrill your taste buds. This chicken dish is simple to prepare and low in carbs. This chicken curry is perfect for lunch, dinner or a special event such as an anniversary or date night. Serve this mouthwatering dish over steamed rice to your family and friends.
Korri Gassi
Korri Gassi is a wonderful dish from the Mangalore coast in Karnataka's southern area. 'Kori' simply means chicken, whereas 'gassi' indicates curry. Kori Gassi is a delight to have with rice, bathed in the flavours of tangy tamarind and a mix of fresh homemade masala made of red chillies, mustard, peppercorn, fenugreek, garlic, cumin, and more. The coconut milk balances out the tangy strong flavours perfectly.
Khow suey
Khow suey is an egg noodle soup with curried meat or chicken and coconut milk, served with a range of contrasting condiments. Khow suey gets a tangy boost with a squeeze of lemon. The dish is comparable to ohn no khauk swe, a Burmese noodle dish that literally means "coconut milk noodles."