Instant coconut milk is not 100% pure coconut, this is how to stock up on real coconut milk that lasts for months

foto: Freepik/stockking

Without realizing it, some brands of packaged coconut milk are not made 100% from coconut extract, but contain additional ingredients.

Brilio.net - Coconut milk is the key to the deliciousness of many Indonesian dishes. From the savory rendang to the sweetness of kolak, almost all traditional dishes taste richer with the addition of coconut milk. However, it turns out that many people now rely more on instant coconut milk for practicality. Unbeknownst to them, some brands of packaged coconut milk are not 100% made from coconut extract, but contain additional ingredients, one of which is maltodextrin. This is as reported in a TikTok upload by the name Filipus Adimas.

Maltodextrin is known as an additive used as a thickener and sweetener in various processed products. Generally, maltodextrin is made from corn, potatoes, rice, and wheat. Maltodextrin is usually used in dry coconut milk or powdered coconut milk.

Although it is safe according to the Food and Drug Monitoring Agency (BPOM) and manufacturers because it is in accordance with safe level procedures for processed food and beverages, Filipus Adimas stated that there is no further information about the maximum limit for maltodextrin use.

Before moving on to how to store fresh, authentic coconut milk , it's a good idea to understand what's contained in instant coconut milk:

1. Contains maltodextrin

Maltodextrin is added to instant coconut milk to give it a thicker texture and extend its shelf life. TikTok account owner Filipus Adimas argues that even though it is safe, if maltodextrin is consumed excessively it will have negative effects on health. That is why the healthy lifestyle content creator emphasizes to consumers to always check the composition of instant coconut milk sold on the market first.

2. There are other additional ingredients

In addition to maltodextrin, some brands also mix guar gum and high fructose corn syrup which can have health effects if consumed in large amounts.

3. Differences in taste and aroma

Fresh coconut milk has a stronger coconut aroma and a purer taste than instant coconut milk that has gone through various processes.

Well, besides always checking the composition of instant coconut milk to get more coconut milk, you can also make your own coconut milk to ensure its freshness and purity. There is an easy way to make a stock of fresh coconut milk that can last for months.

No need to worry about coconut milk going bad quickly, because there are several tricks to keep fresh coconut milk longer without losing its quality.

1. Make your own fresh coconut milk

photo: shutterstock.com

The first step is of course to make fresh coconut milk. Here's how:

Material:
- 1 old coconut
- 500 ml warm water

How to make:
1. Grate the old coconut until smooth.
2. Add warm water, then squeeze the coconut until the coconut milk comes out.
3. Strain with a clean cloth or fine sieve to separate the dregs.

2. Store in the refrigerator

For short-term storage, a refrigerator can be a practical option:
- Store coconut milk in an airtight container.
- Place it in the chiller so it can last 2-3 days.
- If the coconut milk starts to separate, simply stir it before using.

3. Freeze the coconut milk in the freezer

To make coconut milk last for months, the freezing method is very effective:
- Pour the coconut milk into ice cube trays or small containers.
- Freeze in the freezer until hard.
- Transfer to a ziplock plastic bag or closed container (you can also use an ice cube tray) to save space.
- When ready to use, simply take a few blocks and let them sit until they melt.

4. Pasteurization for longer shelf life

This technique can help extend the shelf life of coconut milk without added chemicals:
- Heat the coconut milk over low heat while stirring continuously.
- Do not let it boil, just let the temperature reach 70-80C.
- Cool and store in a sterile container.

5. Storing with coconut oil

Another traditional way is to separate the coconut oil from the coconut milk:
- Heat the coconut milk until the oil comes out.
- Separate the oil from the coconut milk, then store in an airtight container.
- This method makes coconut milk last longer and remains natural.

Instant coconut milk does offer convenience, but if you want something healthier and more natural, a stock of fresh coconut milk can be a better choice. With the right storage method, homemade coconut milk can last for months without losing its taste and quality. From now on, try making your own coconut milk and feel the difference.

(brl/tin)