Name: Creamy Coconut Rice Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 1½ cups jasmine rice; 1 tablespoon coconut oil (optional but recommended); 13.5 ounce can full-fat coconut milk; 1 cup water (or reduced sodium vegetable broth for extra flavor); 1 tablespoon granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon salt; Toasted shredded coconut; Finely minced fresh cilantro or parsley; Chopped peanuts or cashews

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 86 reviews

If you have a soft spot for dishes that combine subtle sweetness with a luxuriously creamy texture, then this Creamy Coconut Rice Recipe is about to become your new best friend in the kitchen. Imagine perfectly fluffy jasmine rice infused with the rich, tropical essence of full-fat coconut milk, just the right hint of sugar, and a touch of salt to balance it all out. It’s a simple dish with a big personality, ready to elevate any meal with its comforting warmth and delightful flavor. The best part? This recipe is incredibly approachable, making restaurant-quality coconut rice absolutely doable at home in just 30 minutes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a top view of several clear glass bowls and small metal cups set on a white marbled surface. In the center, there is a clear bowl filled with white rice and a silver measuring cup resting inside it, the cup has a wooden handle. Above it to the right is a larger clear glass bowl filled with light yellow liquid, likely broth. To the left at the top is a bowl with golden brown crispy fried onions. Around these are small metal cups containing white salt and sugar, and to the bottom left, a bowl with white creamy sauce or yogurt. A bunch of green parsley with fresh leaves is placed on the bottom right corner. There is also a metal spoon with a wooden handle holding white salt near the right side. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic behind this Creamy Coconut Rice Recipe lies in a handful of straightforward ingredients that each play a crucial role in creating that perfect texture and flavor profile. From the delicate jasmine rice that stays fluffy and light to the rich, full-fat coconut milk that provides that creamy, tropical kick, every element contributes something special.

Jasmine rice (1½ cups): A fragrant long-grain rice that stays fluffy and is essential for the right texture—stick to jasmine for best results.
Coconut oil (1 tablespoon, optional): Adds a subtle, tropical richness; you can swap with other oils or butter if needed but coconut oil is recommended.
Full-fat coconut milk (13.5-ounce can): The key to creaminess and authentic coconut flavor—avoid lite or cream of coconut to keep sweetness balanced.
Water (1 cup): Helps the rice cook perfectly; for an extra depth of savory flavor, reduced sodium vegetable broth is a great alternative.
Granulated sugar (1 tablespoon): Just enough to bring out the natural sweetness without overpowering the dish; adjust to your taste.
Salt (1 teaspoon): Balances and enhances all the flavors beautifully.
Optional garnishes: Toasted shredded coconut, fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped peanuts or cashews can add texture and color.

How to Make Creamy Coconut Rice Recipe

Step 1: Rinse the Jasmine Rice

Begin by rinsing your jasmine rice under cold water for a minute or two until the water mostly runs clear. This simple step removes excess surface starch, ensuring your rice cooks up beautifully fluffy rather than sticky or gummy. It’s a small detail that makes a big difference!

Step 2: Melt the Coconut Oil

Heat the coconut oil in a large, high-sided saucepan over medium-high heat until fully melted. The warm oil will gently coat the rice in the next step, helping each grain shine with tropical flavor and a slight sheen.

Step 3: Toast the Rice

Add the rinsed rice to the pan and stir it thoroughly so every grain gets a nice, even coating of the melted coconut oil. This step adds a little toasty depth that balances perfectly with the creaminess of the coconut milk later on.

Step 4: Add Liquids and Seasonings

Pour in the full-fat coconut milk, water (or broth if using), granulated sugar, and salt. Give everything a gentle stir just to combine. Then, bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium-high heat. This is when your kitchen will start filling with that irresistible coconut aroma.

Step 5: Simmer and Let Steam

Once boiling, cover the saucepan with a lid, turn the heat down to low, and let the rice simmer undisturbed for 15 minutes. This slow and gentle cooking allows the rice to soak up those rich, creamy flavors perfectly.

Step 6: Rest and Fluff the Rice

Turn off the heat but keep the lid on, letting the rice rest for 10 minutes. This crucial period lets the rice continue steaming gently, making it tender and fluffy. After resting, remove the lid and fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains. If you notice the rice is a bit too wet or too dry, don’t worry—there are easy fixes like simmering briefly more or adding a splash of liquid to adjust the texture.

How to Serve Creamy Coconut Rice Recipe

A close-up view of white cooked rice served in a round white bowl, showing soft, fluffy grains mixed with small pieces of light brown toasted coconut and bright green chopped herbs scattered evenly on top and within the rice. A pair of wooden chopsticks held by a woman's hand lifts a small portion of the rice, highlighting the texture and colors against a white marbled surface in the background. The image is bright and clear, emphasizing the fresh and simple elements of the dish. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A simple sprinkle of toasted shredded coconut can add a lovely crunch and deepen the coconut flavor. Fresh herbs like finely minced cilantro or parsley introduce a refreshing contrast, while chopped peanuts or cashews bring a satisfying nutty bite. These garnishes elevate the dish without overpowering its creamy essence.

Side Dishes

This creamy coconut rice is the perfect canvas for a variety of main dishes. Pair it with spicy curries, grilled seafood, or tangy tropical salsas to balance the sweet and savory notes. It also beautifully complements Asian-inspired stir-fries or smoky barbecued meats, making it one of the most versatile side dishes you can have in your repertoire.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your coconut rice in colorful bowls or shape it into neat molds for an eye-catching plating. Top with edible flowers or a drizzle of toasted coconut oil to impress guests at dinner parties. For a fun twist, try mixing in diced mango or pineapple for a lightly fruity variation that makes it almost a standalone dish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover coconut rice can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure it’s cooled to room temperature before sealing to maintain its creamy texture and prevent condensation.

Freezing

You can freeze this creamy coconut rice by packing it in freezer-safe containers or bags. For best results, use it within 2 months. When thawed, the rice might be a bit softer, but it still re-heats wonderfully with a splash of coconut milk or water.

Reheating

Reheat your coconut rice gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave. To revive its creamy softness, stir in a teaspoon or two of coconut milk or water during reheating. Fluff with a fork afterward to refresh the texture and serve warm.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of rice for this recipe?

While jasmine rice is recommended for its fragrance and fluffy texture, you can try other long-grain rice varieties. Just be mindful that cooking times and liquid ratios may need adjustment for optimal creaminess.

What if I don’t have coconut oil?

If coconut oil isn’t available, olive oil, vegetable oil, canola oil, avocado oil, or even unsalted butter can be used. Coconut oil enhances flavor best but these substitutes will still deliver delicious results.

Why should I use full-fat coconut milk instead of lite?

Full-fat coconut milk provides the rich creaminess essential for this recipe’s texture and flavor. Lite coconut milk tends to be watery and won’t deliver the same lusciousness. Avoid coconut cream or cream of coconut, as they are too thick or too sweet for this dish.

How do I fix rice that turns out too sticky or mushy?

If your rice is a little too wet or mushy, before serving, place the pan back on low heat uncovered for a few minutes to steam off excess moisture. Fluffing after resting also helps separate the grains for perfect texture.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! This Creamy Coconut Rice Recipe is naturally vegan as it uses plant-based coconut milk and coconut oil. Just make sure any optional garnishes are plant-based if serving to vegan guests.

Final Thoughts

There’s something wonderfully comforting about a bowl of perfectly cooked coconut rice, and this Creamy Coconut Rice Recipe hits every note — creamy, fragrant, and effortlessly delicious. Whether you’re looking to upgrade a weeknight meal or entertain friends with a flavorful side dish, this recipe has got your back. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to keep it in your culinary rotation forever. Give it a shot and let your taste buds take a tropical vacation!