In terms of cooking versatility, coconut milk can be used in a wide range of sweet and savory recipes. Its subtle coconut flavor bodes well for soups, stews, and curries. It's also naturally dairy-free, and therefore a suitable option for those with dairy allergies or lactose intolerance. Coconut milk also tends to be more staple at higher temperatures than dairy milk, which runs the milk of separating/curdling. Nutritionally, coconut milk and dairy milk have very different profiles. While calories vary depending on the fat content of dairy milk (whole vs. 2% vs. skim), all dairy milk contains protein, which coconut milk is devoid of. In my opinion, one isn't superior to the other, and it all depends what you're using it for.