But coconut milk doesn’t just have a different consistency to cow’s milk. It also lasts for much longer.
Saying this, even coconut milk can go bad after some time, and you will check the creamy liquid for mold or a grain texture to ensure that you don’t end up drinking bad coconut milk.
We take a closer look at how you can tell if coconut milk has gone bad, and how to make your coconut milk last longer.
What Is Coconut Milk?
Before we find out more about what coconut milk looks like when it has expired, let’s see what coconut milk is.
Coconut milk is made from the white flesh of the coconut which is harvested from the coconut tree.
Coconut milk has a beautifully thick consistency and a creamy texture. It is often used in Asian cuisine and also as a dairy-free milk.
Types Of Coconut Milk
There are a couple of different types of coconut milk, including thin and thick coconut milk. This refers to the vegan milk’s consistency.
Thick Coconut Milk
Thick coconut milk is the mix of finely grated coconut flesh which has been boiled in water. This blend is then strained through a cheesecloth to turn it into thicker coconut milk.
This type of coconut milk is usually used to thicken sauces.
Thin Coconut Milk
In comparison, thin coconut milk is essentially processed thick coconut milk. The remaining grated coconut in the cheesecloth is simmered in water and then strained again.
Think coconut milk is usually used in thin sauces and soups.
How To Tell If Coconut Milk Is Bad?
Coconut milk is a natural product which means that it can go bad after some time.
It’s a good idea to keep an eye on the expiration date on the coconut milk container. This will give you a rough idea of when your coconut milk will turn sour.
However, coconut milk can last longer when it is stored correctly but if it’s left unrefrigerated, then you might end up with undrinkable coconut milk.
Here are some of the signs that indicate that your coconut milk is bad.
Bad Smell
You will likely be able to smell bad coconut milk even before you look at it. Rancid coconut milk has a sour odor which gets worse over time.
If you notice a bad smell in your coconut milk, then it’s time to dispose of it.
Grainy Appearance
Another great way of telling if your coconut milk has gone bad is by taking a closer look at its texture.
Coconut milk is naturally creamy white and opaque but this changes when it’s rotten. Then, coconut milk starts to curdle and it develops a grainy texture with mold.
Sour Taste
If you are not sure whether your coconut milk has really turned sour, then you can try a little bit of it.
Spoiled coconut milk usually has an acidic and sour flavor. If that’s the case with your milk, then throw it away.
How Long Does Coconut Milk Last?
Coconut milk can last for some time if it hasn’t been opened. An unopened carton of coconut milk can last up to 4 weeks in the fridge.
However, if you open your coconut milk, then it’s good only for around 7 days.
If your coconut milk comes in a can, then canned coconut milk which is unopened can last for up to 5 years in your kitchen pantry.
But if you open the can, then you can expect the milk to go sour after a week.
It’s important to keep in mind that the packaging and the storage conditions of your coconut milk can affect its expiry date.
How To Store Coconut Milk Properly
The right storage method for your coconut milk depends on whether the can or carton has been opened.
Unopened coconut milk should be stored in a dark, cold and dry place, such as a kitchen pantry. You can also store it directly in your refrigerator.
Open coconut milk should always be put into the fridge as it can turn rancid very quickly when left out.
A great way to store your coconut milk to extend its shelf life is by pouring the vegan milk into an airtight container and then put the sealed container in the fridge.
Saying this, refrigerated coconut milk should always be consumer within 7 days as it will go bad after this time.
Clever Ways To Use Up Coconut Milk
If you are struggling to drink all your delicious coconut milk, then there are a few different ways to use up your old coconut milk cartons or cans.
You can make super tasty coconut flan or coconut curry tofu. You can even add a dash of coconut milk to sweet potato curry soup.
There is a large variety of coconut milk recipes online and you can just pick a couple to get rid of all the coconut milk that’s about to expire.
Final Thoughts
Coconut milk is not just a super tasty cow’s milk alternative but you can also add it to many different lunch and dessert recipes.
However, make sure that your coconut milk doesn’t look grain and it shouldn’t have a rancid, sour smell.
If you notice any of these signs in your coconut milk, then it’s best to dispose of it.
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