How to Cook Coconut White Rice: A Flavorful Side Dish

Coconut white rice is a simple yet delicious side dish that perfectly complements Caribbean, Asian, and tropical-inspired meals. The creamy texture and subtle coconut aroma elevate plain rice into something special, making it a fantastic pairing for stews, grilled meats, seafood, and vegetable dishes.

Why I Like This Recipe

This recipe is simple, and I love the texture of the rice mixed with the coconut milk. The right coconut brand is key to achieving the perfect taste and consistency. I don’t use coconut milk that is overly thick and full of fat; instead, I prefer a brand that is creamy and has the smoothness of heavy cream. This ensures that the rice is not too dense but remains rich and flavorful.

Ingredient Descriptions to make the coconut white rice

• Coconut oil: Adds richness and enhances the coconut flavor of the rice.
• Garlic: Infuses the rice with a subtle savory note that balances the sweetness of the coconut.
• Canned coconut milk: Provides a creamy texture and a distinct coconut aroma. Always choose unsweetened coconut milk to prevent an overly sweet dish.
• Water: Helps balance the thickness of the coconut milk to ensure the rice cooks properly.
• Jasmine rice: The preferred variety for coconut rice due to its fragrant and slightly sticky nature.
• Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
• Toasted coconut flakes: Add a crunchy texture and enhance the coconut essence when used as a garnish.

Tips for the Best Coconut White Rice

• Mix Coconut Milk Properly: Always mix the coconut milk with water to avoid a too-thick consistency that can result in sticky rice.
• For Full Coconut Flavor: Use the entire can of coconut milk and just 1/4 cup of water for a creamier taste.
• Choose the Right Coconut Milk: Use unsweetened coconut milk from a can, carton, or bottle. Sweetened coconut milk will alter the flavor and make the dish too sweet.
• Use Jasmine Rice: This variety is ideal for coconut rice because of its fragrant, slightly sticky texture that complements the creamy coconut base.
• Garnish for Extra Texture: Lightly toasted coconut flakes add a beautiful crunch and enhance the coconut flavor.
• Use High-Quality Coconut Milk: Look for a brand that is creamy and smooth rather than overly thick and fatty for the best consistency.
• Cookware options: For the best cookware to prepare your rice dishes, check out the selection at Noubess.com.

Storage and Reheating Tips

• Storage: Store leftover coconut rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheating on the Stovetop: Add a splash of water or coconut milk and gently heat over low-medium heat while stirring occasionally.
• Reheating in the Microwave: Sprinkle a little water over the rice, cover it with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until heated through.
• Freezing: You can freeze coconut rice in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Defrost in the refrigerator before reheating.

Serving Suggestions

Coconut white rice pairs beautifully with dishes like:

• Grilled or Jerk Chicken
• Caribbean Curries
• Seafood Dishes
• Spicy Vegetable Stir-fries

This versatile and aromatic rice will quickly become a staple in your kitchen!

How to Cook Coconut White Rice: A Creamy and Flavorful Side Dish

Make the perfect Coconut White Rice with jasmine rice, coconut milk, and a touch of garlic. This easy and creamy coconut-infused rice recipe is a delicious side dish for Caribbean, Asian, or tropical meals!

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Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Course Side Dish

Cuisine Caribbean Fusion, Haitian Cuisine

Servings 4

Calories 493 kcal

Equipment

• Saucepan
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
• Fine-mesh strainer
• Frying pan

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Ingredients

  

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• 2 tsp coconut oil
• 1 garlic clove sliced
• 1 cup canned coconut milk unsweetened
• 1 cup water
• 2 cups jasmine rice
• Salt to taste
• Toasted coconut for garnish optional

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Instructions

 

• Sauté the Garlic: In a medium saucepan, heat the coconut oil over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
• Mix the Liquid: Pour in the coconut milk and water, stirring well to combine. You can also use a full can of coconut milk (about 1 3/4 cups) and just 1/4 cup of water for a richer coconut flavor.
• Bring to a Boil: Increase the heat and bring the liquid to a gentle boil. Add salt to taste.
• Add the Rice: Stir in the jasmine rice, ensuring it is evenly distributed in the liquid. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 15-18 minutes, or until the rice absorbs all the liquid.
• Fluff and Serve: Remove from heat and let the rice sit, covered, for another 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving. Garnish with toasted coconut for extra flavor and texture.

Notes

• Mix Coconut Milk Properly: Always mix the coconut milk with water to avoid a too-thick consistency that can result in sticky rice.
• For Full Coconut Flavor: Use the entire can of coconut milk and just 1/4 cup of water for a creamier taste.
• Choose the Right Coconut Milk: Use unsweetened coconut milk from a can, carton, or bottle. Sweetened coconut milk will alter the flavor and make the dish too sweet.
• Use Jasmine Rice: This variety is ideal for coconut rice because of its fragrant, slightly sticky texture that complements the creamy coconut base.
• Garnish for Extra Texture: Lightly toasted coconut flakes add a beautiful crunch and enhance the coconut flavor.
• Use High-Quality Coconut Milk: Look for a brand that is creamy and smooth rather than overly thick and fatty for the best consistency.
• Storage and Reheating Tips Storage: Store leftover coconut rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheating on the Stovetop: Add a splash of water or coconut milk and gently heat over low-medium heat while stirring occasionally.
• Reheating in the Microwave: Sprinkle a little water over the rice, cover it with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until heated through.
• Freezing: You can freeze coconut rice in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Defrost in the refrigerator before reheating.

Nutrition

Calories: 493kcalCarbohydrates: 78gProtein: 8gFat: 17gSaturated Fat: 14gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.4gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gSodium: 17mgPotassium: 267mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 0.1IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 39mgIron: 2mg

Please keep in mind that nutritional information is a rough estimate and can vary greatly based on the products used.

Keyword Caribbean rice recipe, coconut jasmine rice, coconut milk rice, Coconut white rice, how to make coconut rice

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Nutrition info is automatically generated and provided as a courtesy and as an estimate only.

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Corn Allergy:

Always choose ingredients without corn or corn derivatives.