Having tried many brands of coconut milk and cream over the years, I am very sensitive to any changes in its flavor. These are the two brands that I have settled on, and they are always used in my curries.
1) GOYA COCONUT MILK – I have been able to find these easily at Kroger, HEB and Walmart (US Stores). Both the consistency and taste work well in regular curries.
2) SAVOY COCONUT CREAM – I have only found these in Chinatown (Hmart and Hong Kong marts). Of all the coconut creams that I have experimented with, this has the most coconut-y smell and taste. I always have a stock of these in my pantry. This can be diluted (1:1) with water for regular curries, or used as is for thick and creamy curries.
Recipe ideas using coconut creams include creamy lentil curries, and curried eggplants.
Recipe ideas using coconut milk include coconut shrimp, and scallion tomato curries
What are your favorite coconut milk/cream brands for cooking? Let me know in the comments!