Best Vegan Coconut Milk Substitutes Guide
Find the best vegan substitutes for coconut milk. Learn proper ratios, techniques, and tips for plant-based alternatives that work in any recipe.
Quick Answer
The best vegan coconut milk substitutes are Cashew Cream, Oat Milk + Coconut Oil, or Almond Milk + Cornstarch. Use proper ratios and choose plant-based options for optimal results.
Best Substitutes
Cashew Cream
1:1Blended cashews with water that provides similar creaminess and richness to coconut milk. Perfect for maintaining the luxurious texture in vegan recipes.
Best for:
Cashew cream provides the closest texture match to coconut milk. Soak cashews for 2-4 hours before blending for best results.
Oat Milk + Coconut Oil
1 cup coconut milk = 1 cup oat milk + 1 tbsp coconut oilOat milk with added coconut oil that provides similar richness and a hint of coconut flavor. Good for when you want plant-based creaminess.
Best for:
Oat milk is naturally creamy, and coconut oil adds richness and coconut flavor. Use unrefined coconut oil for best flavor.
Almond Milk + Cornstarch
1 cup coconut milk = 1 cup almond milk + 1 tbsp cornstarchThickened almond milk that provides similar consistency to coconut milk. Good for when you want plant-based creaminess.
Best for:
Almond milk is thinner than coconut milk, so cornstarch helps thicken it. Mix cornstarch with cold liquid before adding to hot mixtures.
Soy Milk + Coconut Oil
1 cup coconut milk = 1 cup soy milk + 1 tbsp coconut oilSoy milk with added coconut oil that provides similar richness and a hint of coconut flavor. Good for when you want plant-based creaminess.
Best for:
Soy milk provides good creaminess, and coconut oil adds richness and coconut flavor. Use unrefined coconut oil for best flavor.
Rice Milk + Coconut Oil
1 cup coconut milk = 1 cup rice milk + 1 tbsp coconut oilRice milk with added coconut oil that provides similar richness and a hint of coconut flavor. Good for when you want plant-based creaminess.
Best for:
Rice milk is naturally sweet, and coconut oil adds richness and coconut flavor. Use unrefined coconut oil for best flavor.
Cooking Tips
- 💡Always choose plant-based ingredients to ensure your substitute is completely vegan
- 💡The key to successful vegan substitution is maintaining the right balance of creaminess and flavor
- 💡Use high-quality plant-based ingredients for best results - the flavor difference is noticeable
- 💡Common mistakes to avoid: using dairy-containing substitutes, not checking labels, incorrect ratios
- 💡For best results, experiment with different plant milks to find your preferred flavor profile
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best vegan substitute for coconut milk?
For vegan recipes, cashew cream provides the closest texture match to coconut milk. It's creamy, rich, and completely plant-based.
Can I use almond milk instead of coconut milk in vegan recipes?
Yes, but you'll need to thicken it with cornstarch. Mix 1 cup almond milk with 1 tablespoon cornstarch for best results.
Why is coconut milk not always vegan?
Coconut milk is naturally vegan, but some brands may add non-vegan ingredients. Always check labels to ensure it's completely plant-based.
Can I make vegan coconut milk at home?
Yes, you can make coconut milk by blending shredded coconut with water and straining. This gives you complete control over ingredients.
What's the best vegan substitute for coconut milk in curry?
For vegan curry, cashew cream or oat milk with coconut oil work best. They provide similar creaminess and richness without dairy products.
Summary
Find the best vegan substitutes for coconut milk. Learn proper ratios, techniques, and tips for plant-based alternatives that work in any recipe.