Coconut Rice Recipe

Introduction

Coconut rice is a fragrant and creamy side dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of meals, from spicy curries to grilled seafood. Made with jasmine rice cooked in rich coconut milk, it offers a subtle sweetness and tropical flavor that’s easy to prepare at home.

Ingredients

• 2 cups jasmine rice
• 13.5 ounce can full-fat coconut milk
• 1 ½ cups water (or coconut water)
• ½ teaspoon salt

Instructions

1. Step 1: Rinse the jasmine rice in a fine mesh strainer under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
2. Step 2: In a medium saucepan, combine the coconut milk and water. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
3. Step 3: Add the salt and rinsed rice to the boiling liquid. Stir briefly and reduce the heat to a simmer.
4. Step 4: Cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid and cook on low heat for 15-20 minutes, or until all the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
5. Step 5: Remove the pot from heat and keep it covered. Let the rice rest for 15 minutes to finish steaming.
6. Step 6: Fluff the rice gently with a fork before serving. Enjoy immediately or store for later use.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, toast the jasmine rice lightly in a dry pan before rinsing and cooking.
• Use coconut water instead of plain water to intensify the coconut flavor.
• Add a few pandan leaves or a small piece of ginger to the pot while cooking for a subtle aromatic twist.
• For a vegan meal, ensure the coconut milk you use is dairy-free and without additives.

Storage

Store leftover coconut rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days. To reheat, sprinkle a little water over the rice and warm it gently in the microwave or on the stove to restore moisture and fluffiness.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of rice?

Jasmine rice is preferred for its fragrance and texture, but you can use basmati or long-grain rice. Cooking times and liquid ratios may vary, so adjust accordingly.

Is coconut rice suitable for freezing?

Yes, coconut rice freezes well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Coconut Rice Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 143 reviews

• Author: Harper
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
• Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

This Coconut Rice recipe is a fragrant and creamy side dish made by cooking jasmine rice in full-fat coconut milk and water, seasoned lightly with salt. The result is a subtly sweet and rich rice that pairs wonderfully with a variety of Asian dishes or tropical-inspired meals.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Rice

• 2 cups jasmine rice

Liquids

• 13.5 ounce can full-fat coconut milk
• 1 ½ cups water (or coconut water)

Seasoning

• ½ teaspoon salt

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Instructions

1. Rinse the Rice: Rinse the jasmine rice thoroughly in a fine mesh strainer under cold running water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming sticky.
2. Cook the Coconut Mixture: In a medium saucepan, combine the full-fat coconut milk and water. Place the saucepan over high heat and bring the liquid to a boil, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching.
3. Add Rice: Once boiling, add the rinsed rice and ½ teaspoon of salt to the saucepan. Stir briefly to combine.
4. Simmer: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid, and allow the rice to simmer gently for 15-20 minutes or until the liquid is fully absorbed and the rice is tender.
5. Rest: Remove the saucepan from heat but keep it covered. Let the rice rest undisturbed for 15 minutes, allowing it to steam and finish cooking evenly.
6. Fluff and Serve: Remove the lid and fluff the rice gently with a fork to separate the grains. Serve the coconut rice warm immediately, or transfer to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 7 days.

Notes

• For a nuttier flavor, toast the jasmine rice lightly in a dry skillet before rinsing and cooking.
• Using coconut water instead of plain water enhances the coconut flavor and adds natural sweetness.
• This rice pairs well with grilled meats, curries, and tropical dishes like mango salsa or pineapple chicken.
• To keep leftover rice moist when reheating, sprinkle a little water over it and cover while microwaving.
• Adjust the salt quantity according to taste preferences or dietary restrictions.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Asian

Keywords: coconut rice, jasmine rice, coconut milk rice, Asian side dish, creamy rice, tropical rice