Coconut Rice

Coconut Rice

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Coconut rice is a wonderfully fragrant and creamy rice dish made by cooking rice in coconut milk instead of water. This simple yet luxurious side dish is common in many cuisines around the world—Thai, Indian, Caribbean, and African—each with its own variation. It’s an excellent pairing with spicy, savory, or grilled dishes, and sometimes even enjoyed as a sweet dessert version.Coconut Rice

Why You Will Love This Coconut Rice Recipe

  1. Easy to Make – Minimal ingredients and steps.

  2. Incredibly Creamy and Aromatic – Thanks to full-fat coconut milk.

  3. Versatile – Goes with sweet or savory dishes.

  4. Great for Meal Prep – Stores well and can be reheated easily.

  5. Naturally Gluten-Free and Vegan – Perfect for various dietary needs.

Ingredients List

Basic Coconut Rice

  • 1 cup long-grain jasmine rice or basmati rice

  • 1 can (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk

  • ½ cup water

  • 1 teaspoon salt

  • 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, for balance)

  • 1 tablespoon coconut oil or butter (optional, for richness)

Timing and Servings

  • Prep Time: 5 minutes

  • Cook Time: 20 minutes

  • Resting Time: 10 minutes

  • Total Time: 35 minutes

  • Servings: 4–6 as a side

Step-by-Step Instructions for Coconut Rice

1. Rinse the Rice

  • Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and prevents a sticky texture.

2. Combine Ingredients

  • In a medium saucepan, add rinsed rice, coconut milk, water, salt, sugar, and coconut oil or butter if using.

3. Bring to a Simmer

  • Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir gently to mix. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

4. Cover and Cook

  • Reduce the heat to low, cover with a tight-fitting lid, and let it simmer for 15–18 minutes without lifting the lid.

5. Let it Rest

  • Remove from heat and let the rice sit, covered, for 10 minutes to finish steaming.

6. Fluff and Serve

  • Gently fluff with a fork before serving.

Coconut Rice

Best Rice Types for Coconut Rice

1. Jasmine Rice

  • Popular in Thai cooking; slightly sticky and aromatic.

2. Basmati Rice

  • Used in Indian versions; long-grain, fluffy texture.

3. Sticky Rice (Glutinous Rice)

  • Common in desserts or Southeast Asian dishes.

4. Brown Rice

  • Nutty and nutritious, but requires longer cooking and more liquid.

Tips for Perfect Coconut Rice

  • Use full-fat coconut milk for richness and creaminess.

  • Don’t over-stir once rice starts cooking; it can become gummy.

  • Let it steam properly by not removing the lid too soon.

  • Fluff with a fork to separate grains gently.

  • Double the batch for leftovers; it stores beautifully.

Flavor Variations

1. Garlic Coconut Rice

  • Sauté minced garlic in oil before adding the rice and coconut milk.

2. Ginger Coconut Rice

  • Add freshly grated ginger for warmth and depth.

3. Lemongrass Coconut Rice

  • Add smashed lemongrass stalks to the pot for fragrance.

4. Spiced Coconut Rice

  • Add a cinnamon stick, star anise, or cloves for an aromatic touch.

5. Sweet Coconut Rice

  • Add 2 tablespoons sugar and a pinch of cardamom or nutmeg. Great with mango!

Pairing Ideas: What to Serve with Coconut Rice

With Savory Dishes

  • Thai green or red curry

  • Jamaican jerk chicken or pork

  • Indian chickpea curry (Chana Masala)

  • Grilled shrimp or salmon

  • Teriyaki tofu or chicken

With Sweet Dishes

  • Fresh mango or pineapple

  • Coconut caramel sauce

  • Roasted plantains

  • Banana or jackfruit slices

How to Make Coconut Rice in a Rice Cooker

  1. Rinse the rice and add it to the rice cooker.

  2. Add coconut milk and water as per the original recipe.

  3. Add salt and sugar.

  4. Close the lid and cook on the “white rice” setting.

  5. Let rest for 10 minutes after cooking and fluff before serving.

How to Make Coconut Rice in an Instant Pot

  1. Rinse rice and add to the Instant Pot.

  2. Add 1 cup coconut milk and ½ cup water.

  3. Add salt and sugar, if desired.

  4. Seal and cook on high pressure for 4 minutes.

  5. Let the pressure naturally release for 10 minutes before opening.

  6. Fluff and serve.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Refrigerator

  • Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freezer

  • Freeze in portioned bags or containers for up to 2 months.

  • Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

  • Reheat in the microwave with a splash of water or coconut milk to rehydrate.

  • You can also reheat on the stovetop over low heat with added liquid.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

  1. Using Low-Fat Coconut Milk

    • It results in less creamy, watery rice. Stick to full-fat.

  2. Cooking at High Heat

    • May burn the bottom. Always cook on low once it simmers.

  3. Lifting the Lid Too Soon

    • Causes uneven cooking. Allow the rice to steam properly.

  4. Not Rinsing Rice

    • Can make the texture overly sticky.

Coconut Rice Around the World

1. Thai Coconut Rice

  • Often slightly sweet and served with curries.

2. Nigerian Coconut Rice

  • Includes tomatoes, chili peppers, and onions for a spicy twist.

3. Jamaican Coconut Rice and Peas

  • Made with kidney beans, thyme, and Scotch bonnet for bold flavor.

4. Sri Lankan Coconut Rice (Kiri Bath)

  • Cooked with coconut milk and shaped into squares; eaten with spicy sambal.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, Approximate)

  • Calories: 280

  • Fat: 12g

  • Carbohydrates: 36g

  • Fiber: 2g

  • Protein: 4g Note: Values may vary based on ingredients used.

FAQs

Can I use coconut cream instead of coconut milk?

Yes, but dilute it with a bit of water to avoid overly thick texture.

Can I add vegetables to coconut rice?

Absolutely! Peas, corn, carrots, or spinach all work well.

Is coconut rice sweet or savory?

It depends on the version. It can be either. This recipe leans slightly savory.

Can I make coconut rice without using oil or butter?

Yes. It still turns out flavorful and soft without additional fat.

Conclusion

Coconut rice is more than just a side dish—it’s a flavorful, creamy base that brings tropical warmth to your plate. Whether you’re pairing it with a spicy curry, enjoying it with sweet fruit, or preparing a large meal for guests, coconut rice offers comfort and versatility.

With this comprehensive guide, you’re ready to create a perfect bowl of coconut rice every time. Feel free to experiment with spices, herbs, or different types of rice to make the dish your own. Serve it warm, fresh, and aromatic—your kitchen will smell amazing, and your taste buds will thank you.