Jamaican Coconut Rice

Name: Jamaican Coconut Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup jasmine rice; 1 cup coconut milk; 1 cup water; 1 tsp salt; 1 tbsp sugar (optional); Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love making Jamaican Coconut Rice! The combination of fluffy rice and creamy coconut milk creates a tropical experience that elevates any meal. I often serve this dish during gatherings or casual dinners, and it never fails to impress. The rich coconut flavor pairs beautifully with grilled meats and spicy dishes, making it a versatile side. Plus, it's surprisingly simple to prepare, requiring just a few ingredients. Join me in this culinary adventure and discover the magic of Caribbean flavors with this delightful recipe!

Created by

Eden Clarke

Last updated on 2026-01-13T20:01:14.644Z

When I first tried Jamaican Coconut Rice, I was instantly transported to the Caribbean. The creamy texture and subtle sweetness of the coconut milk perfectly complemented the rice, creating an unforgettable dish. After several attempts, I found that simmering the rice in a combination of coconut milk and water yields the best flavor and texture.

I also love adding a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness, and sometimes I toss in a few herbs for a fresh twist. This dish pairs wonderfully with spicy curries or grilled chicken, making it a staple in my kitchen.

        What You'll Love About This Recipe
        Creamy coconut milk adds a luscious, tropical flavor
Easy to make with just a handful of ingredients
Pairs beautifully with a variety of main dishes

      

Tips for Perfectly Fluffy Rice

Achieving perfectly fluffy jasmine rice is all about the rinsing technique. By rinsing the rice thoroughly until the water turns clear, you remove excess starch that can make the rice gummy. Take your time with this step; it can significantly impact the dish's final texture. After rinsing, allow the rice to drain for a couple of minutes to ensure there's no excess water left before you combine it with the coconut milk and water.

During cooking, ensure the heat is low enough to prevent the rice from boiling too aggressively. This would result in uneven cooking and could leave some grains undercooked while others might get mushy. A low simmer allows the rice to gently absorb the coconut milk, enhancing its creamy texture without cooking it too quickly.

Serving and Storage Suggestions

This Jamaican Coconut Rice pairs beautifully not only with grilled meats but also with spicy Caribbean dishes, seafood, or even a fresh salad for a lighter meal. For a more elaborate presentation, you can serve the rice in a bowl garnished with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro and thinly sliced chilies to elevate the dish visually and flavor-wise. I sometimes add a wedge of lime on the side for a zesty contrast that really brightens up the dish.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. Coconut rice can also be frozen. Let it cool completely, pack it into freezer-safe bags, and it can last up to three months in the freezer. To reheat, simply heat with a splash of water in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. This helps restore its moisture and prevents it from drying out.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for a delightful side dish

Ingredients

1 cup jasmine rice
1 cup coconut milk
1 cup water
1 tsp salt
1 tbsp sugar (optional)
Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Jamaican Coconut Rice.

Rinse the Rice

Start by rinsing the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch, preventing the rice from becoming sticky.

Combine Ingredients

In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, coconut milk, water, salt, and sugar (if using). Stir well to mix all the ingredients.

Cook the Rice

Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and has absorbed most of the liquid.

Fluff and Serve

After cooking, remove the saucepan from the heat and let it sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving and garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.

Enjoy your delicious Jamaican Coconut Rice with your favorite dishes!

Pro Tips

For an even richer flavor, you can toast the rice in a little coconut oil before adding the liquid. Additionally, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or vanilla for a unique twist.

Ingredient Insights

Jasmine rice is a key ingredient in this recipe due to its fragrant aroma and slightly sticky texture when cooked. It's essential to this dish because it absorbs flavors beautifully, allowing the coconut milk to infuse each grain with its rich taste. If you cannot find jasmine rice, you can substitute it with basmati rice. However, be aware that basmati typically requires more water and a slightly different cooking time.

Coconut milk brings that luscious creaminess and tropical flavor, which is the star of the dish. Be mindful when choosing coconut milk; premium brands often have a full-bodied flavor and creamier consistency compared to budget options, which can be overly diluted. If you're looking for a lighter option, consider using light coconut milk or diluting regular coconut milk with water, but remember that this may adjust the creaminess of the final dish.

Variations to Consider

For a unique twist, experiment with adding spices such as a cinnamon stick or a few cardamom pods during the cooking process. These aromatic spices elevate the flavor profile, making it perfect for an intimate dinner or a festive gathering. Just remember to remove them before serving, as they can be overpowering if left in the dish.

You can also incorporate additional ingredients like peas or diced bell peppers for added nutrition and color. If you enjoy a slightly sweeter rice, feel free to increase the sugar or even mix in some raisins or toasted coconut flakes after cooking. This versatility allows you to tailor Jamaican Coconut Rice to suit various preferences and enhances its appeal across diverse palates.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of jasmine rice?

Yes, but keep in mind that brown rice will require a longer cooking time and more water. Adjust accordingly.

→ Is there a dairy-free option for coconut milk?

Coconut milk is naturally dairy-free, making it an excellent choice for lactose-intolerant individuals.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop.

→ Can I add vegetables to this rice?

Absolutely! Peas, bell peppers, or carrots can be stirred in during the last 5 minutes of cooking for added color and nutrition.