How to differentiate between thin and thick coconut milk (厚椰奶) in English?

How to Differentiate Between Thin and Thick Coconut Milk (厚椰奶) in English?

Understanding the difference between thin and thick coconut milk is essential for authentic Asian cooking, especially if you want to replicate traditional recipes or choose the right product in supermarkets. In English, "thick coconut milk" usually refers to the first, richest extraction from grated coconut, while "thin coconut milk" is the result of subsequent extractions with added water.

Key Differences: Extraction and Consistency

• Thick Coconut Milk (First Extraction):
  - Also called "first coconut milk," "coconut cream," or simply "thick coconut milk."
  - Made by blending grated coconut with a small amount of warm water and pressing/squeezing out the liquid.
  - Rich, creamy, and high in fat content.
  - Used for thickening curries, desserts, or as a finishing touch for richness.
  - In recipes, it may be called "coconut cream" or "full-fat coconut milk."
  Example: "Add 1 cup of thick coconut milk to finish the curry."
• Thin Coconut Milk (Second/Third Extraction):
  - Also called "second coconut milk," "light coconut milk," or "thin coconut milk."
  - Made by adding more water to the coconut pulp left after the first extraction, then squeezing again.
  - Much lighter in color and texture, lower in fat.
  - Used for soups, stews, or dishes where a lighter coconut flavor is desired.
  Example: "Simmer the vegetables in thin coconut milk for a delicate flavor."

How to Tell the Difference in Store-Bought Products?

• Full-fat coconut milk (canned): Usually corresponds to thick coconut milk, sometimes with a layer of solid cream on top. Shake or stir before use for an even consistency.
• Light coconut milk: This is thick coconut milk diluted with water, marketed as "light" or "thin" coconut milk. Lower in fat, more watery, and suitable for lighter recipes.
• Coconut cream: Even thicker and richer than thick coconut milk, sometimes sold separately for desserts or extra-rich dishes.

Summary Table

Practical Tips

• When making fresh coconut milk, control the thickness by adjusting the amount of water added during extraction.
• For canned products, check the label: "full-fat" or "coconut cream" means thick; "light" means thin.
• Recipes may use the terms interchangeably, so check the context or instructions for clarification.

In summary, thick coconut milk in English is usually called "thick coconut milk," "first coconut milk," or "coconut cream," while thin coconut milk is "thin coconut milk," "second coconut milk," or "light coconut milk." The main difference lies in the extraction process and fat content, which affects both flavor and texture in cooking.