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Creamy Coconut Rice Recipe

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4.3 from 86 reviews

  • Author: Ezabella
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings (about 3 cups cooked rice)
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This Coconut Rice recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor and texture with minimal effort. Creamy, fluffy, and infused with the subtle sweetness and richness of coconut milk, this versatile side dish pairs beautifully with a wide range of Asian, Caribbean, and tropical-inspired meals. Using jasmine rice and full-fat coconut milk ensures the perfect balance of fragrance and creaminess in just 30 minutes.

Ingredients

Main 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

Optional Garnishes

  • Toasted shredded coconut
  • Finely minced fresh cilantro or parsley
  • Chopped peanuts or cashews

Instructions

  1. Rinse the Rice: Place the jasmine rice in a colander and rinse under cold running water for 1-2 minutes until the water runs mostly clear. This removes excess surface starch to help achieve a fluffy texture. Set aside.
  2. Melt Coconut Oil: Heat a large high-sided saucepan over medium-high heat and add the coconut oil. Allow it to melt and coat the bottom of the pan.
  3. Coat Rice with Oil: Add the drained rice to the pan and stir well so that each grain gets coated with the coconut oil, enhancing flavor and preventing sticking.
  4. Add Liquids and Seasonings: Pour in the full-fat coconut milk, water (or vegetable broth), sugar, and salt. Stir gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
  5. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, cover the pot with a lid, reduce heat to low, and let it simmer, covered, for 15 minutes. Avoid lifting the lid during this time to ensure proper steaming.
  6. Rest the Rice: After simmering, turn off the heat but keep the lid on. Let the rice rest and steam for 10 more minutes, allowing it to finish cooking and absorb all moisture fully.
  7. Fluff and Adjust: Remove the lid and fluff the rice gently with a fork to separate the grains. Taste and adjust salt or sugar if needed. If the rice is too wet, return to low heat uncovered briefly to steam off excess liquid. If too dry or hard, add a few tablespoons of water or coconut milk, cover, and steam on low for 5 more minutes.
  8. Serve: Optionally garnish with toasted shredded coconut, fresh herbs, or nuts for added texture and flavor. Serve warm as a perfect side dish.

Notes

  • Use jasmine rice specifically; substituting other rice types will affect texture and may require additional liquid adjustments.
  • Full-fat canned coconut milk is recommended for creaminess—avoid light coconut milk or coconut cream.
  • If using broth instead of water, choose low sodium to keep salt levels balanced.
  • Simmer rice covered without stirring to allow proper steaming and tender grains.
  • Resting time off the heat is essential for fluffiness and absorption of flavors.
  • Adjust liquid amounts slightly depending on your stove and pot to avoid overly wet or dry rice.
  • Use a pot with a tight-fitting lid for best results.
  • Optional garnishes add visual appeal and complementary textures but are not necessary.
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Asian

Find it online: https://kitchenloving.com/creamy-coconut-rice-recipe/