What is the best way to preserve coconut milk?
Introduction
Coconut milk is a creamy, rich liquid made from the meat of mature coconuts. It’s a popular ingredient in many Asian cuisines and adds a lovely coconut flavor and richness to soups, curries, desserts, and beverages. While fresh coconut milk has a delicious, subtle sweetness, it also has a short shelf life. Like other dairy products, coconut milk can spoil quickly if not stored properly. So what is the best way to keep coconut milk fresh for as long as possible?
How Long Does Coconut Milk Last?
The shelf life of coconut milk depends on whether it is sold refrigerated or shelf-stable.
Refrigerated Coconut Milk
Refrigerated coconut milk is pasteurized to kill bacteria but does not undergo ultra-high temperature (UHT) processing. This means it will stay fresh for 5-7 days when properly stored in the refrigerator. Make sure to check the expiration date and use refrigerated coconut milk within 5-7 days of opening.
Shelf-Stable Coconut Milk
Shelf-stable, or “tetra-packed” coconut milk undergoes UHT processing which allows it to be shelf-stable unopened at room temperature for up to a year. Once opened, it will stay fresh for 5-7 days in the refrigerator. Always check the “best by” date and use opened shelf-stable coconut milk within 5-7 days.
Tips to Extend the Shelf Life
Here are some tips to extend the shelf life of both refrigerated and shelf-stable coconut milk:
1. Proper Storage
– Refrigerate coconut milk immediately after opening. Keep refrigerated until ready to use.
– Do not store coconut milk on the refrigerator door, where the temperature fluctuates. Store towards the back of the fridge.
– If you won’t use the coconut milk within 5-7 days, pour it into an airtight container or resealable plastic freezer bag. Squeeze out excess air and store in the freezer.
– Thawed, previously frozen coconut milk will last 3-4 days in the refrigerator before use. Shake or stir well before using.
2. Use Clean Utensils
– Always use clean utensils and containers when taking coconut milk from the original carton or bottle.
– Never place used spoons or spatulas back into the coconut milk. This can introduce bacteria and shorten shelf life.
3. Check for Spoilage
– Check coconut milk for signs of spoilage before use – if you see curdling, discoloration, mold, or if it smells sour, toss it.
– Do not taste questionable coconut milk. Discard it.
4. Portion Into Smaller Containers
– Consider dividing the coconut milk into smaller containers right away if you will not use it all soon.
– Make sure containers are clean and seal tightly. This creates less waste if you end up having to toss a smaller amount.
How to Tell If Coconut Milk Has Gone Bad
Coconut milk, like other dairy products, will eventually spoil. Here are signs that your coconut milk has gone bad and should be discarded:
Change in Texture
– Fresh coconut milk should have a smooth, creamy, and liquidy consistency.
– Spoiled coconut milk may look curdled or clumpy.
Change in Color
– Good coconut milk is snowy white.
– If it turns pink, gray, yellow, or brown, toss it.
Mold Growth
– Check the coconut milk carefully for fuzzy mold spots or spores, either floating or around the rim of the carton/bottle. Mold is one of the most obvious signs the coconut milk is spoiled.
Rancid or Sour Smell
– Fresh coconut milk smells sweet and mildly nutty.
– If it smells rancid, sour, or unpleasant, it’s gone bad.
Expired Date
– If the expiration date or “use by” date has passed, err on the safe side and throw away the coconut milk. Expired coconut milk may harbor bacteria.
How to Store Coconut Milk
Follow these coconut milk storage guidelines:
Unopened Coconut Milk
| Type | Pantry | Fridge | Freezer |
|---|---|---|---|
| Refrigerated | No | Yes | No |
| Shelf-Stable | Yes | No | No |
– Refrigerated coconut milk must stay chilled. Store unopened in the refrigerator.
– Shelf-stable coconut milk can be stored at room temperature until opened. Keep unused portions refrigerated after opening.
Opened Coconut Milk
| Type | Refrigerator | Freezer |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerated | 5-7 days | 6 months |
| Shelf-Stable | 5-7 days | 6 months |
– Once opened, both refrigerated and shelf-stable coconut milk should be stored in the refrigerator.
– For longer storage, freeze for up to 6 months. Thaw refrigerated overnight before use.
Other Ways to Use Leftover Coconut Milk
Don’t throw away leftover coconut milk! Here are tips to use up extra coconut milk before it expires:
– Make coconut rice pudding or chia pudding
– Blend into smoothies, protein shakes, or fruit smoothie bowls
– Use as the liquid when making oatmeal or overnight oats
– Add to muffin, pancake, waffle, or crepe batter
– Mix into coffee drinks, lattes, cappuccinos
– Make coconut curries, stews, or soups, freezing extras
– Mix with spices and use as a marinade for meats or tofu
– Whip into heavy cream for dessert toppings or fillings
– Add to frosting or homemade ice cream as a dairy-free option
The Best Ways to Preserve Unused Coconut Milk
To get the longest shelf life out of leftover coconut milk:
Refrigerate
– Transfer unused coconut milk to an airtight container or jar. Leave about 1 inch of headspace.
– Refrigerate for 5-7 days. Make sure your fridge is 40°F or below. Use clean utensils to remove portions.
Freeze
– Pour coconut milk into freezer-safe zip top plastic bags or freezer containers. Squeeze out excess air and seal.
– Label with the date and lay flat to freeze. Frozen coconut milk lasts 6 months.
– Thaw refrigerated overnight or in cold water. Shake before use as separation can occur.
Simmer
– Simmer extra coconut milk into a sauce, curry, or stew. Allow to cool fully then refrigerate or freeze.
– Reheat gently on the stove or microwave when ready to use.
Reduce
– Simmer coconut milk uncovered until reduced by half or until thickened.
– Use as a rich coconut syrup topping for desserts, yogurt, oatmeal, etc. Store refrigerated.
Culture
– Turn leftover coconut milk into yogurt or kefir. The cultured probiotics will extend the shelf life.
– Keep refrigerated and use within 1-2 weeks for best flavor.
Is Frozen then Thawed Coconut Milk Safe?
Yes, coconut milk that has been previously frozen, then properly thawed is safe to consume. Follow these guidelines:
– Only refreeze coconut milk once – do not thaw and refreeze more than once.
– Thaw frozen coconut milk overnight in the refrigerator until completely liquid and no ice crystals remain. Avoid thawing at room temperature.
– Use within 2-3 days of thawing in the refrigerator. Do not refreeze at this point.
– Stir or shake well before use – some separation is natural after thawing.
– Check for signs of spoilage – odor, texture, mold – and discard if any are present. Do not taste questionable coconut milk.
– Cook thoroughly to a simmer or boiling point after thawing – this helps kill any bacteria.
With proper freezing and thawing methods, previously frozen coconut milk remains a safe, budget-friendly option to have on hand.
Conclusion
Coconut milk adds amazing flavor and richness to recipes, but it also has a limited shelf life. With proper refrigerated storage and freezing, you can extend the shelf life of both refrigerated and shelf-stable coconut milk. Keep coconut milk chilled at 40°F or below. Freeze for up to 6 months for longer storage. Thawed, previously frozen coconut milk is safe to consume when properly stored. Check for any signs of spoilage and use refrigerated leftover coconut milk within 5-7 days. With the right storage methods, you can enjoy coconut milk while reducing waste.