Milk, whole

The term whole milk refers to cows milk that contains at least 3.25% fat. Sometimes recipes call for whole milk rather than lower fat to help thicken the mixture (such as many custard recipes). If not specified, you can almost always substitute 2% fat milk for whole milk in most recipes to help reduce the fat and cholesterol in a dish.

As with other milk products, whole homogenized milk is fortified with Vitamin D.

Substitute For Whole Milk

If you don't have whole milk, there are several very good substitutes.  To substitute 1 cup whole milk use:

• 5/8 cup skim milk + 3/8 cup half and half
• OR - 2/3 cup 1% milk + 1/2 cup half and half
• OR - 3/4 cup 2% milk + 1/4 cup half and half
• OR - 7/8 cup skim milk + 1/8 cup heavy cream

Non-Dairy Substitutes

• Soy milk is in general the best alternative to whole milk in cooking.  It's high in protein and has a similar flavor.
• Coconut milk works well in smoothies, soups, preparing hot cereal, and even for making a basic white sauce.

Where To Buy

Look for coconut milk in the Ethnic Foods section of your grocery store.  You can find some brands at Trader Joe's and Walmart.  You can find the Thai Chaokoh brand at Amazon.com: Coconut Milk.