The coconut milk adds to the thick and creamy texture, as well as the sweet flavor. It does add a hint of coconut, so if you’re not a fan, you can substitute with another unsweetened plant-based milk like almond milk or oat milk. The texture just won't be as creamy. To maintain the creaminess, you can use heavy cream, but keep in mind that the soup will no longer be vegan or dairy-free.