Definition

Noun: A thick, white, rich liquid or paste made by pressing or blending the grated meat (flesh) of a fresh, mature coconut. It is not the same as coconut water (the clear liquid inside the coconut) or coconut milk (which is typically a more diluted liquid). Coconut cream is the first, most concentrated extract.

Usage

Coconut cream is used as a key ingredient in cooking, especially in Southeast Asian, Caribbean, and Polynesian cuisines. It adds a rich, creamy texture and a distinct coconut flavor to dishes. - It is often used in curries, soups, sauces, desserts, and drinks. - It can be used as a dairy-free alternative to heavy cream in many recipes. - It is commonly sold in cans or cartons, and can also be made at home.

Examples

• Noun:
  • The recipe calls for one cup of coconut cream to make the curry rich and creamy.
  • For a vegan dessert, she whipped chilled coconut cream to top the pie.
  • You can find coconut cream in the international aisle of most supermarkets.

Advanced Usage

• "To separate coconut cream": In traditional preparation, when coconut milk is left to stand, the thicker, fattier part rises to the top; this layer is the coconut cream.
  • After letting the can of coconut milk sit in the refrigerator overnight, the coconut cream had solidified at the top.

Variants and Related Words

• Coconut milk (n): A more diluted liquid made from coconut meat. It is generally thinner than coconut cream but thicker than coconut water. Coconut cream is often the base for making coconut milk by adding water.
• Creamed coconut (n): A solid block of pure, dehydrated coconut meat, similar to very hard coconut cream. It must be dissolved in hot water to use.
• Coconut water (n): The clear, slightly sweet liquid found inside a young, green coconut.

Synonyms

• Coconut concentrate: A less common term emphasizing its thick, undiluted nature.
• First-press coconut extract: A descriptive term for the initial, richest press of the coconut meat.

Notes on Meaning

• Primary Meaning: The thick, fatty liquid extracted directly from coconut meat.
• Culinary vs. Commercial Meaning: In a culinary context, "coconut cream" specifically refers to the thick, top layer of canned or homemade coconut milk. Commercially, products labeled "coconut cream" are typically this concentrated form, while "coconut milk" is a more diluted product. Always check the fat content on the label for clarity.

Noun

1. white liquid obtained from compressing fresh coconut meat