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; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 2 tablespoons shredded coconut (optional); Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love making Jamaican Coconut Rice as it brings a tropical flair to any meal. The creamy coconut milk combined with the fluffy rice creates a dish that's both comforting and refreshing. This recipe brings back fond memories of my time in Jamaica, savoring delicious meals prepared by friendly locals. The best part is how easy it is to make! I often serve it with grilled fish or tangy jerk chicken, and it never fails to impress guests with its subtle sweetness and enticing aroma.

Created by

Blair Hudson

Last updated on 2026-01-13T21:13:13.412Z

When I first tried Jamaican Coconut Rice during my travels, I was captivated by its rich flavor and delicate texture. The combination of jasmine rice and coconut milk creates a dish that's lush and satisfying. I've experimented with ratios, and I found that using a 1:1 ratio of water to coconut milk delivers the perfect consistency without being overly rich.

One tip I've learned is to allow the rice to rest a few minutes after cooking. This simple step lets the flavors meld beautifully and gives you perfectly fluffy grains. Now, this dish is my go-to side for both family dinners and special occasions!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy coconut flavor that transports you to a tropical paradise
Simple ingredients that create an incredible taste
Versatile dish that pairs beautifully with various proteins

      

The Importance of Rinsing Rice

Rinsing the jasmine rice before cooking is a crucial step that affects the final texture of your dish. By washing away the excess starch, you're ensuring that the rice remains light and fluffy instead of turning into a sticky clump. I usually rinse until the water runs clear, which typically takes about 2-3 minutes. This small effort can significantly enhance the overall eating experience, making each grain distinct and well-coated in coconut milk.

Additionally, rinsing not only contributes to the texture but also helps in flavor absorption during cooking. Since the rice is the star of this dish, starting with this fundamental technique sets the stage for a well-balanced coconut flavor. It’s a simple step that pays off big when it comes to achieving that perfect mouthfeel.

Flavor Infusion Techniques

Incorporating the right ratios of coconut milk to water is essential for achieving that creamy, indulgent flavor that complements the jasmine rice beautifully. This recipe features equal parts of coconut milk and water, which helps to maintain the moisture content without overwhelming the dish with coconut flavor. If you're looking to enhance the coconut essence, feel free to adjust the proportions slightly, but I recommend not adding more than 1.5 cups of coconut milk to avoid overly rich rice that may clump together.

An optional yet delightful addition is shredded coconut during the final fluffing stage. Adding this can enhance both the flavor and texture profile, introducing a slight chewiness that contrasts nicely with the fluffy rice. If you prefer a more subtle touch, toasting the shredded coconut beforehand until golden can deepen the flavors and provide a fragrant aroma that elevates the dish.

Serving and Pairing Ideas

Jamaican Coconut Rice shines when paired with a variety of protein-rich dishes. Grilled fish is a classic choice, as the light, flaky texture complements the creamy rice well. I also love serving it alongside jerk chicken; the spicy heat of the chicken contrasts perfectly with the subtle sweetness of the rice. For vegetarians or vegans, consider pairing it with a spicy chickpea stew for a hearty meal that doesn't skimp on flavor.

If you're looking to make this dish ahead of time, it stores well in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. To reheat, add a splash of water and steam on low heat until warmed through; this helps restore moisture. For longer storage, you can freeze the coconut rice in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Just remember, upon reheating from frozen, it may require a little more water to ensure it's fluffy and not dry.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients for a delicious dish!

Ingredients

1 cup jasmine rice
1 cup coconut milk
1 cup water
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons shredded coconut (optional)
Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Once you have assembled the ingredients, you're ready to get started!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your Jamaican Coconut Rice.

Rinse the Rice

Begin by rinsing the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This step removes excess starch, preventing the rice from becoming too sticky.

Combine Ingredients

In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, coconut milk, water, and salt. Stir gently to mix the ingredients.

Cook the Rice

Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.

Fluff and Serve

Remove the pot from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork, and if desired, stir in shredded coconut before serving. Garnish with chopped cilantro for an extra touch!

Enjoy your Jamaican Coconut Rice alongside your favorite dishes!

Pro Tips

For an added touch, consider adding a cinnamon stick or a few cardamom pods while cooking the rice for extra flavor. This dish is also adaptable
you can substitute brown rice if you prefer.

Ingredient Substitutions

If jasmine rice isn’t available, other long-grain options like basmati or even medium-grain rice can work, though you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly. The key is to find a rice that cooks up fluffy and isn’t too starchy. For a dairy-free option, make sure your coconut milk is labeled as such, as some brands blend in non-dairy creamers that may alter the texture you’re aiming for.

You can also swap regular coconut milk for light coconut milk or even coconut cream for a richer flavor, but keep in mind that these will alter the final texture and potentially increase cooking time. For an extra layer of flavor, use flavored coconut milk with added spices, though I recommend sticking to basic coconut milk for this recipe to maintain a balanced profile.

Troubleshooting Tips

If you find your rice is too sticky after cooking, it may have been overcooked or not rinsed adequately. In this case, try using a fork to fluff it gently and redistribute moisture. If it remains gummy, spreading it on a baking sheet and letting it cool for about 10 minutes can help dry it out slightly, improving the texture.

Conversely, if your rice isn’t fully cooked or still has liquid when you check it after the specified cooking time, return it to low heat, cover it, and let it steam for an additional 5-10 minutes. This will help to evaporate the remaining water and ensure the grains are tender and fluffy, completing the dish as intended.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare this rice ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the rice a few hours in advance. Just reheat it gently before serving.

→ Is there a way to make it vegan?

This recipe is already vegan-friendly since it uses coconut milk instead of dairy.

→ What can I serve with Jamaican Coconut Rice?

It pairs well with grilled fish, jerk chicken, or even a hearty vegetable curry.

→ Can I use a different type of rice?

While jasmine rice is traditional, you can substitute with basmati or even brown rice, though cooking times may vary.