Jamaican Coconut Rice

Name: Jamaican Coconut Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 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; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Fusion Ideas

I absolutely love making Jamaican Coconut Rice because it effortlessly combines the rich flavors of coconut and fragrant rice. Each time I prepare this dish, I can almost hear the gentle waves of the Caribbean. This recipe is not just a side dish; it elevates any meal with its creamy texture and subtle sweetness. Whether served with grilled meats or vegetarian dishes, it transports me to a tropical paradise. The best part? It’s straightforward to make and requires minimal ingredients that I usually have on hand.

Created by

Etta Langton

Last updated on 2026-01-13T06:51:36.530Z

Making Jamaican Coconut Rice was an experiment for me that turned into a culinary adventure. The first time I made it, I was amazed at how the coconut milk transformed the simple rice into something special. I’ve learned that the key is to let the rice absorb the flavors slowly. This method truly enhances the overall taste, making it rich and aromatic.

I've perfected my technique over several attempts, focusing on the balance of coconut milk and water. Using high-quality coconut milk really makes a difference, providing that creamy texture we all crave. I also like to add a pinch of salt to elevate the flavors even more.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Creamy coconut flavor that complements any main dish
Simple, fuss-free recipe that anyone can master
A tropical twist that brings joy to your dining table

      

The Role of Coconut Milk

Coconut milk is the star ingredient in Jamaican Coconut Rice, providing a rich creaminess that often evokes tropical dreams. It not only adds flavor but also enriches the texture, giving the rice a silky finish. When selecting coconut milk, look for a product that is full-fat for the best results, as it yields a more decadent and satisfying dish without being overly heavy. Low-fat versions may not deliver the same creamy consistency, resulting in a drier texture.

When incorporating coconut milk, pay attention to how it interacts with the other ingredients. The natural sweetness of the coconut pairs beautifully with the savory elements of your meal. Additionally, the fat in the coconut milk helps in achieving a smooth, fluffy consistency in the rice, allowing each grain to separate effortlessly during cooking.

Cooking Technique for Perfect Rice

Achieving perfectly cooked jasmine rice requires careful attention to the cooking method. After combining the ingredients, bring your pot to a gentle boil. This initial stage is crucial; too high a heat can cause the rice to burn or become clumpy. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low to ensure a slow simmer, which prevents any chance of scorching and allows the grains to absorb the liquid evenly.

Covering the pot while the rice cooks traps steam, which is essential for even cooking. After the 20-minute simmer, if you notice any liquid remaining, simply cover and let the rice sit off the heat for a few extra minutes. The residual heat will continue to steam the rice, ensuring a fluffy texture without any wetness.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Jamaican Coconut Rice is versatile enough to complement numerous dishes, from grilled chicken to spicy jerk shrimp. To elevate your serving experience, consider garnishing with fresh cilantro or scallions. This not only adds a pop of color but also provides a contrasting fresh flavor. Pairing it with a side of mango salsa can bring a delightful sweetness that balances the richness of the coconut rice.

If you're looking to switch things up, try adding some cooked black beans or peas to the rice for added protein and colorful flair. You can also experiment with spices such as turmeric or curry powder for a different flavor profile. Just remember to adjust the liquid ratios slightly if you add any additional ingredients to ensure a balanced texture.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

2 cups jasmine rice
1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
1 cup water
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon sugar
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Rinse the Rice

Begin by rinsing the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove extra starch, ensuring the rice is fluffy.

Combine Ingredients

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

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 until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.

Fluff and Serve

After cooking, remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes. Then, fluff the rice with a fork and serve warm.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider tossing in a few slices of ginger or a couple of green onions while cooking. This enhances the aroma and adds a nice layer of flavor to the dish.

Make-Ahead and Storage

Jamaican Coconut Rice can be prepared in advance, making it a perfect option for busy weeknight meals or entertaining guests. Once cooked, let the rice cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you're meal prepping, consider separating the rice into individual portions for easy reheating.

To reheat, you can use the microwave or stovetop. If using the stovetop, add a splash of water to prevent the rice from drying out and heat on low until warmed through. If you want to freeze the rice, allow it to cool before portioning it into freezer bags. It can be frozen for up to 3 months; simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your coconut rice turns out sticky or gummy, it may be due to overcooking or not rinsing the rice sufficiently before cooking. Always rinse until the water runs clear to remove excess starch, which can contribute to a clumpier texture. If you find yourself with too little liquid during cooking, don't hesitate to add a small amount of water, a tablespoon at a time, to allow the rice to absorb more moisture without swelling too much.

Conversely, if your rice is too dry, try adding a bit more coconut milk or water during reheating. A common mistake is lifting the lid too frequently while the rice is cooking, which releases steam necessary for even cooking. Keep the lid on to maintain the proper steam environment.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have jasmine rice on hand, long-grain white rice can be a suitable substitute, though it may yield a slightly different texture. For a healthier option, consider brown jasmine rice, but note that the cooking time will increase. Whole grain rice requires more water and a longer steaming process, typically around 40-45 minutes.

Those with dietary restrictions can use canned coconut cream as an alternative for a richer flavor, but you may need to adjust the water content to avoid overly thick rice. Additionally, for a non-dairy alternative, try using almond or soy milk, keeping in mind it may not deliver the same creamy richness as coconut milk.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of jasmine rice?

Yes, you can, but cooking time will increase. Brown rice typically takes about 40-45 minutes to cook.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! All the ingredients used in this recipe are gluten-free.

→ Can I add vegetables to the rice?

Yes! Chopped bell peppers or peas can be mixed in during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrition and color.

→ How should I store leftover Jamaican Coconut Rice?

Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan or microwave with a splash of water to regain moisture.