Sayur lodeh is a beloved traditional Indonesian dish known for its rich flavors and creamy coconut milk-based soup. It’s a family favorite that often graces the dining table with its comforting taste. But not everyone can freely consume coconut milk-based lodeh. Some people need to limit their intake due to health reasons, such as high cholesterol, digestive issues, or certain allergies. You happen to be one of those people? Don’t worry, you can still enjoy a hearty and tasty bowl of sayur lodeh without using coconut milk! There are plenty of healthier coconut milk substitutes that still give you that creamy, savory taste. In this article, we’ll cover 8 great alternatives to coconut milk you can try at home. Read on because you might even discover a new go-to ingredient that’s better for your body. 

Coconut Milk Subtitutes for Sayur Lodeh 

Here are 8 options coconut milk subtitutes for Sayur Lodeh to make more creamy, healthy, and just as flavorful:

1. FiberCreme 

The most practical and healthy choice! FiberCreme is a plant-based powdered creamer that can replace coconut milk without sacrificing flavor. It’s high in fiber, low in sugar, and contains 0mg of cholesterol, perfect if you want to enjoy lodeh without worry. 

2. Evaporated Milk 

Evaporated milk gives a creamy texture similar to coconut milk and has a neutral taste that won’t overpower the dish. However, it’s not suitable for people with lactose intolerance since it still contains lactose. 

For best results, add evaporated milk at the end of cooking after the vegetables are fully cooked to prevent curdling. 

3. Almond Milk 

A low-calorie option that gives a subtle nutty flavor to lodeh. It’s ideal for those watching their weight. Keep in mind that almond milk has a thinner consistency, so your broth may be less rich compared to using coconut milk. 

Almond milk works best in versions of lodeh that don’t require a very thick broth. 

4. Soy Milk 

A great plant-based protein source and relatively affordable. Soy milk can have a distinct aroma or taste, so choose an unsweetened version and simmer it briefly before adding it to the dish to neutralize its flavor. 

5. Plain Yogurt 

Plain yogurt gives a unique tangy note to lodeh, creating a fresh and different taste. However, yogurt may curdle if cooked at high heat for too long. 

To prevent this, mix the yogurt with a bit of water or vegetable broth and stir it in at the very end, using low heat. 

6. Cooking Cream 

Cooking cream offers a very rich and heat-resistant texture, making it suitable for long cooking. However, cooking cream is usually a dairy product which means it’s not suitable for people with lactose intolerance or dairy allergy. Moreover, cooking cream is usually expensive and not widely available. 

But if you still want to try cooking cream for your lodeh, add it at the end of cooking to retain its creamy richness. 

8. Cashew Milk 

Cashews add a naturally creamy and nutty flavor, along with added nutrients. This option requires more prep time as the cashews need to be soaked and blended. 

Soak the cashews in hot water for at least 30 minutes, blend them with a little water into a smooth paste, and strain if needed before adding to your lodeh. 

9. Mashed Pumpkin 

Mashed pumpkin adds a natural sweetness and thickness to the broth, plus a boost of vitamins and fiber. Steam the pumpkin until soft, mash or blend it, then add it during the cooking process for extra creaminess. However, you need to remember that adding mashed pumpkin to your lodeh mixture will slightly change the color of your lodeh to a warm orange-yellow hue. 

Read More: 6 Tapioca Flour Recipes Without Coconut Milk You Must Try!

Make Your Sayur Lodeh Healthier and Creamier with FiberCreme! 

Now you don’t have to stress about finding the perfect coconut milk substitute for sayur lodeh. From nut-based milks to whole food options like pumpkin, there are so many ways to keep this traditional dish both nutritious and delicious. But if you’re looking for the most practical, healthy, and creamy solution, FiberCreme is the way to go! 

FiberCreme is a versatile non-dairy creamer that works wonderfully in creamy soups like lodeh, opor, and curry. It delivers a rich and savory flavor, but with added health benefits: high fiber, low sugar, and 0mg cholesterol. 

Start swapping coconut milk with FiberCreme and turn your homemade meals into healthier, guilt-free favorites! Find more delicious recipe ideas on Instagram @FiberCreme_TV and on the Ellenka YouTube channel.