Coconut Rice

Uplevel your favorite meal with this coconut rice recipe.

Jasmine rice is simmered in coconut milk to make perfectly fluffy rice with a light coconut flavor.

This recipe uses rich coconut milk to give the rice a light coconut flavor.
Simple steps and ingredients make this coconut rice recipe easy to prepare.
The flavor pairs well with almost any meal, including your favorite Thai, Chinese, and Japanese dishes or even teriyaki chicken.

water , salt , rice , sugar , coconut milk on a wooden board with labels to make Coconut Rice

Coconut Rice Essentials

Rice: This recipe uses jasmine rice, which is both fragrant and flavorful. You can use other varieties of long-grain white rice—adjust the liquid levels as needed.

Coconut Milk: Use canned full-fat coconut milk for the best flavor, lite coconut milk tends to be a bit thinner.

Sugar: It’s optional in this recipe but recommended.

Variations

Basmati rice is the closest comparison to jasmine if a substitute is necessary.
A little bit of lime juice and lime zest will brighten the rich coconut flavors, especially if you want to serve coconut rice cold in a rice bowl with fresh veggies and chunks of mango or pineapple. Try topping with toasted coconut flakes.
Add a squeeze of fresh lime juice or top with thinly sliced green onion or a sprinkle of cilantro.

How to Make Coconut Rice

Place all ingredients (recipe below) in a pot and bring to a boil.
Reduce heat to a simmer, cover, and cook (don’t lift the lid) until rice is tender.
Let rice rest, and then fluff with a fork.

For fluffy rice and the best texture, rinse excess starch from the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover coconut rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and freeze portions in zippered bags for up to 3 months.
Reheat coconut rice in the microwave or on the stovetop on medium heat with a little water or coconut milk mixed in.

This rice pairs well with spicy dishes like bang bang shrimp or sriracha grilled shrimp.

Enjoy Coconut Rice With These Favorites

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This simple coconut rice recipe has a delicate coconut flavor that is perfect for any meal!

Prep Time 5 minutes

Cook Time 22 minutes

Resting Time 5 minutes

Total Time 32 minutes

Cook ModePrevent your screen from going dark

Place the rice in a mesh strainer and rinse under cold water until the water runs clear.
In a medium-sized saucepan, combine rice, coconut milk, and water. Stir in the sugar and salt.
Bring ingredients to a boil over medium-high heat. Then reduce heat to a low simmer and cover.
Cook covered for 20 to 25 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is fluffy and tender.
Remove from the heat and let rest covered for 5 to 7 minutes. Fluff with a fork and serve.

Makes 4 cups of coconut rice.
Do not lift the lid after reducing to a simmer.

Nutrition information provided is an estimate and will vary based on cooking methods and brands of ingredients used.

Course Side Dish

Cuisine Asian

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