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6 Coconut Milk Substitutes for Authentic Filipino Dishes

Out of coconut milk? These alternatives maintain the creamy richness Filipino cuisine demands

7 min read

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Quick Answer

Best coconut milk substitutes for Filipino cooking: Heavy cream + coconut extract (1 cup cream + 1 tsp extract) for richness, cashew cream for vegan option, or whole milk + butter (¾ cup milk + ¼ cup melted butter) for cooking applications.

Coconut milk is the heart of many Filipino dishes, providing richness to curries, sweetness to desserts, and that distinctive tropical flavor. When you can't find it, these substitutes will save your recipe.

I've tested these alternatives in classic dishes like chicken adobo sa gata, ginataang bilo-bilo, and laing, ensuring they maintain the authentic taste and texture.

Whether you need dairy or dairy-free options, here are 6 coconut milk substitutes that work beautifully in Filipino cooking.

The 3 Best Substitutes

1. Heavy Cream + Coconut Extract

Easy

(5/5)

Substitution Ratio

1 cup heavy cream + 1 teaspoon coconut extract

Texture: Very rich and creamy

Flavor: Rich with coconut essence

Best for: Curries, desserts, rich dishes

Pros & Cons

Authentic coconut flavor

Very rich texture

Easy to make

Great for desserts

High in dairy

More calories

Need coconut extract

Pro Tip

Start with less extract and adjust. Perfect for ginataang desserts. Great in chicken curry.

2. Cashew Cream

Medium

(4/5)

Substitution Ratio

1 cup soaked cashews + 1 cup water, blended

Texture: Smooth and creamy

Flavor: Neutral, slightly nutty

Best for: Vegan curries, soups, sauces

Pros & Cons

Completely vegan

Very creamy

Neutral flavor

Healthy fats

Need to soak cashews

Requires blender

Nutty undertone

Pro Tip

Soak cashews 4+ hours. Blend until completely smooth. Add coconut extract for authenticity.

3. Whole Milk + Butter

Easy

(3/5)

Substitution Ratio

¾ cup whole milk + ¼ cup melted butter

Texture: Creamy, slightly thinner

Flavor: Rich and mild

Best for: Cooking applications, mild curries

Pros & Cons

Usually have ingredients

Easy to make

Good for cooking

No coconut flavor

Different taste

Dairy-based

Pro Tip

Add coconut extract if available. Good for emergency cooking. Works in most savory dishes.

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6 Coconut Milk Substitutes for Authentic Filipino Dishes | Healthy Swap