Why is Coconut Milk Called Milk and Why Does It Look Like Cream While Being Watery?

Much like how regular cow's milk is just one of many types of milk, coconut milk is a creamy and nutrient-dense alternative that has earned its place in both culinary and everyday use. But why is it called 'milk' in the first place? And how does it come to look so much like milk despite being watery?

Understanding the Term "Milk"

It's important to remember that the term 'milk' isn't exclusively used for cow's milk. Milk refers to an opaque, white or near-white, creamy, nutrient-dense liquid that is naturally produced by female mammals to nourish their young. However, the term is also widely used for plant-based alternatives like coconut milk, almond milk, oat milk, and rice milk. Each of these milk-like alternatives may have a different texture, taste, and nutritional profile, but they all fall under the broader category of milk due to their shared characteristics.

Coconut Milk and Its Composition

When you open a coconut, the liquid inside is actually called coconut water. This liquid is a clear, refreshing drink and is quite different from coconut milk. While coconut water is celebrated for its hydrating properties, coconut milk is a rich, creamy beverage made from the ‘meat’ (the flesh) of the coconut that has been crushed and then filtered.

The creamy texture and white appearance of coconut milk closely resemble cow's milk, which is why it is often referred to as 'milk.' This appearance is due to the blend of the coconut's flesh and the natural fats and proteins it contains, giving it a smooth, rich consistency similar to traditional dairy milk.

Historical and Linguistic Roots

The naming of foods often reflects historical and linguistic roots rather than precise scientific definitions. For instance, the term 'coconut milk' is not used because of its flavor alone; rather, it's due to its appearance and texture, which closely resemble traditional milk. Similarly, the name 'pineapple' (aliased as ananas) comes from its resemblance to an apple, and 'potato' (aardappel) was named for its appearance akin to an earth apple, despite being a completely different plant.

Coconut Water vs. Coconut Milk

Coconut water is a different product entirely, distinct from coconut milk. It is the naturally occurring liquid found within young and green coconuts and is often considered a healthy, refreshing drink. Unlike coconut milk, which is derived from the solid flesh of mature coconuts, coconut water has a thin, clear, and watery consistency, and a milder, sweeter flavor similar to that of water.

Conclusion

Coconut milk is a rich, creamy, and nutritious beverage that is rich in fats and proteins. Despite its watery appearance, in part because of the different liquid inside coconuts, it is called 'milk' due to its similar appearance and texture to traditional cow's milk. This renaming of foods is a reflection of our historical and cultural understanding of what milk means, which has evolved over time to include plant-based alternatives that share similar qualities and characteristics.