Here's how to make creamy coconut milk at home in five easy steps.

Choose Fresh Coconut use 1-2 fresh coconuts or 2 cups of unsweetened shredded coconut. If using fresh coconut, crack it open, remove the meat, and cut it into small pieces.

Blend with Hot Water add the coconut pieces or shredded coconut to a blender with 2-3 cups of hot water. blend on high for 1-2 minutes until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy.

Strain the Mixture Place a cheesecloth or fine strainer over a bowl. pour the blended coconut mixture through the cloth or strainer, pressing down to extract all the liquid. this is your fresh coconut milk.

Optional Second Press For a thicker coconut milk, repeat the blending and straining process with the leftover coconut pulp and another cup of hot water, then combine both extracts.

Store and Use Pour the coconut milk into a jar, seal tightly, and refrigerate. use within 3-4 days for cooking, smoothies, or desserts.