Coconut milk alternative

[Annabella72]

If a curry-type recipe asks for coconut milk, but you are allergic/can't stand coconut, what is a good alternative? Thanks in advance

[KenR]

Tough one this... only would only usually add coconut milk to such a recipe if it is for the taste. If you can't stand coconut why make one whose sauce is based on it?
No matter what you replace it with it will tast quite different, but seeing as its curry you could perhaps try natural yogurt or perhaps creme fraiche both of which may help with consistency.

[heathfield]

Agree with Ken's first paragraph. The two reasons for adding coconut are 1) the milk/cream for the taste, and 2) dessicated/powdered coconut for the thickening plus flavour.
Since the first doesn't seem wanted in your case, try roasting some dried chickpeas, then powder them in a blender. Add to the curry, and it'll thicken nicely. Different taste, and very likeable.
(Yoghurt or cr�me fraiche will reduce the heat of any curry).

[Annabella72]

Thank you both, it was a question on behalf of a friend, as she can't stand the smell/taste/texture of coconut but didn't want to miss out on the other yummy ingredients, she's now going to try and experiment. You never know, she might find a happy accident!

[KenR]

Nice call on the chickpeas Heathfield. Worth trying

[figure]

Omit the coconut milk altogether or use water in it's place.

[analyn577]

i love curry! sometimes i don't use coco milk, i used evap. it really tasted good just like coco milk, try it!