Jamaican Coconut Rice

Name: Jamaican Coconut Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups jasmine rice; 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk; 1 cup water; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon sugar; 1/4 cup chopped scallions (optional); Lime wedges, for serving

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love making Jamaican Coconut Rice because it beautifully pairs with a variety of dishes, adding a tropical flair to any meal. The creaminess from the coconut milk combines magically with the fluffy rice, creating a sumptuous base that elevates everything from spicy curries to grilled meats. What’s even better is how simple it is to prepare! With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, we can achieve a delightful taste of the Caribbean right in our kitchen.

Created by

Ainsley Harper

Last updated on 2026-01-13T20:16:15.358Z

Making Jamaican Coconut Rice has become a cherished tradition in my home. I remember the first time I tried this dish at a friend's gathering, where the combination of coconut and spices captivated my taste buds. I took notes that day, eager to recreate that wonderful flavor. I discovered that to achieve the perfect texture, I needed to let the rice soak in the coconut milk longer.

Whenever I serve this rice, I always receive compliments for its flavor and creaminess. A little sprinkle of fresh scallions or a zest of lime right before serving adds a wonderful freshness, making this dish a favorite for both family dinners and special occasions.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Luxuriously creamy coconut flavor in every bite.
Perfectly fluffy rice that absorbs all the delicious coconut goodness.
Easy to make yet impressive enough for gatherings.

      

Essential Ingredients for Flavorful Coconut Rice

The choice of rice is crucial to achieving the perfect texture in Jamaican Coconut Rice. Jasmine rice, known for its fragrant aroma and slightly sticky texture, absorbs the coconut milk beautifully, resulting in a creamy dish that’s rich yet light. If jasmine rice is unavailable, you can substitute it with basmati rice; just be aware that the cooking time may vary slightly. This adjustment might change the flavor profile, but it will still deliver a delightful coconut experience.

Using high-quality coconut milk is key to extracting the full, luxurious coconut flavor in this dish. Look for coconut milk with minimal additives; the best options are often those labeled as '100% coconut' to ensure a rich taste. If you prefer a lighter version, you can use light coconut milk, but keep in mind that the creaminess will be somewhat reduced. For an extra touch of flavor, consider using coconut cream for a denser, richer outcome.

Cooking Techniques for Perfectly Fluffy Rice

When bringing the rice mixture to a boil, avoid cooking it at too high a temperature. Medium heat is ideal; you want to avoid any chance of burning the rice at the bottom. Once it starts to boil, quickly reduce the heat to low to maintain a gentle simmer. This slow cooking method allows the rice to steam properly, resulting in perfectly fluffy grains that are not overcooked or mushy.

Letting the rice sit covered after cooking is a crucial step that should not be overlooked. This resting period allows the steam to redistribute within the rice, improving its texture. Fluffing the rice with a fork helps separate the grains and incorporates any remaining coconut milk, ensuring each bite is delectable. For those who love extra texture, a sprinkle of toasted coconut on top before serving can provide a pleasant crunch.

Ingredients

For the Coconut Rice

2 cups jasmine rice
1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
1 cup water
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon sugar
1/4 cup chopped scallions (optional)
Lime wedges, for serving

Mix all the ingredients thoroughly in a pot for the best flavor!

Instructions

Rinse the Rice

Begin by rinsing the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.

Combine Ingredients

In a medium pot, combine the rinsed rice, coconut milk, water, salt, and sugar. Stir well.

Cook the Rice

Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 18-20 minutes until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.

Fluff and Serve

Remove from heat, let it sit covered for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork. If desired, add chopped scallions and serve with lime wedges.

Enjoy your delicious Coconut Rice with your favorite main dish!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick of flavor, consider adding a dash of garlic powder or a pinch of nutmeg to the rice before cooking.

Serving Suggestions

Jamaican Coconut Rice pairs beautifully with a variety of main dishes, enhancing their flavors without overwhelming them. Consider serving it alongside spicy jerk chicken or a zesty shrimp curry. The creamy coconut acts as a wonderful counterbalance to the heat, allowing each element of your meal to shine through. You can also use this rice as a bed for stir-fried vegetables, presenting a colorful and nutritious dish.

For a refreshing twist, try adding chopped fresh cilantro or mint to the rice right before serving. These herbs will lift the dish's flavors and add a vibrant touch. Additionally, presenting lime wedges allows your guests to squeeze fresh lime juice over their portion, brightening the dish while enhancing the coconut's sweetness.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Jamaican Coconut Rice can easily be made ahead of time, making it an excellent choice for meal prep. Cook the rice earlier in the week and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. When you're ready to use it, reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or extra coconut milk to revive its creamy consistency.

For longer storage, cooked coconut rice can be frozen for up to three months. Make sure to cool the rice completely before transferring it into freezer-safe bags or containers. When reheating frozen coconut rice, be sure to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before warming it up. This process helps preserve its texture and flavor, ensuring every bite tastes just as fresh as when it was made.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of jasmine rice?

Yes, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time and liquid ratio as brown rice typically takes longer to cook.

→ Is this recipe suitable for vegan diets?

Absolutely! This recipe is naturally vegan since it uses coconut milk and does not contain any animal products.

→ How can I store leftover coconut rice?

You can store leftover coconut rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently before serving.

→ Can I freeze coconut rice?

Yes, coconut rice can be frozen! Just cool it completely, then transfer it to freezer bags. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.