Jamaican Coconut Rice
Highlighted under: Global Flavors
I love making Jamaican Coconut Rice because it’s a simple yet flavorful side dish that elevates any meal. The creamy coconut milk paired with fluffy rice creates a perfect balance that reminds me of my travels to the Caribbean. Whenever I prepare it, the aroma fills my kitchen and takes me back to sun-soaked beaches. Plus, it’s versatile: you can serve it alongside grilled meats, seafood, or even as a base for a veggie bowl. It’s a crowd-pleaser that always leaves everyone asking for the recipe!
I first stumbled upon Jamaican Coconut Rice during a visit to a local Caribbean restaurant. The moment I took my first bite, I was transported to an island paradise. The combination of rich coconut flavor and fluffy rice is simply mesmerizing. I learned that to achieve the perfect texture, the rice should be cooked slowly, allowing it to absorb all the delicious coconut milk.
Since then, I’ve experimented with different variations, adding spices like cinnamon and nutmeg to enhance the flavor. Each time, it’s a hit! I highly recommend letting the rice rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow the flavors to marry beautifully.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich and creamy coconut flavor that is simply irresistible.
- Perfectly fluffy rice that complements any main dish.
- Easy to make and great for feeding a crowd.
Understanding the Ingredients
The key to achieving that rich coconut flavor lies in using high-quality coconut milk. Look for brands that contain 100% coconut with no additives for the best results. Full-fat coconut milk offers a creamier texture, enhancing the overall dish, while light coconut milk can work in a pinch if you prefer a lower-fat option. Also, jasmine rice is essential here; its natural fragrance and slight stickiness complement the coconut milk beautifully, creating that desired fluffy consistency.
Green onions and cilantro not only add vibrant flavor but also provide freshness that balances the richness of the coconut. Make sure to chop them finely for even distribution throughout the rice. If you don’t have cilantro on hand, you can substitute with parsley for a milder flavor, though it will alter the overall taste profile slightly.
Perfecting the Cooking Technique
Rinsing the rice is a crucial step that many may overlook. By washing away excess starch, you're setting yourself up for success, ensuring each grain remains fluffy and doesn't clump together. I recommend rinsing until the water runs completely clear; this usually takes about 2-3 minutes under cold water. It may seem tedious, but trust me, it's worth the extra effort!
When it comes to simmering, maintaining a low heat is critical. If you keep it too high, you may end up with burnt rice at the bottom of the pot. After bringing the mixture to a boil, make sure to cover the pot tightly to trap steam, which is what cooks the rice evenly. Look for the rice to be tender and the liquid absorbed by the end of cooking; if there’s still moisture, let it sit for a few extra minutes on low heat.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients for the Jamaican Coconut Rice:
Ingredients
- 1 cup jasmine rice
- 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
- 1 cup water
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp sugar
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
With these ingredients, you’re all set to create a delicious dish!
Instructions
Here are the steps to make Jamaican Coconut Rice:
Rinse the Rice
Begin by rinsing the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch, ensuring the rice cooks up fluffy.
Combine Ingredients
In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, coconut milk, water, salt, and sugar. Stir gently to mix.
Bring to a Boil
Place the saucepan over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a boil.
Simmer
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 18-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
Fluff and Add Garnishes
Once cooked, remove the pot from heat and let it sit covered for an additional 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork and fold in the chopped green onions and cilantro.
Your coconut rice is now ready to be enjoyed!
Pro Tips
- For an extra touch, serve your coconut rice with a slice of lime for a zesty kick.
Serving Suggestions
Jamaican Coconut Rice pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Consider serving it alongside spicy jerk chicken or grilled fish, which contrast the creamy rice and enhance your meal's flavor profile. Additionally, it works wonderfully as a base for a veggie bowl, topped with sautéed vegetables and a sprinkle of lime for an extra zing. This versatility truly makes it a go-to side for any occasion.
For a delightful twist, try topping the rice with toasted coconut flakes just before serving. This not only adds a nice texture but enhances the coconut flavor, giving your dish a delightful crunch that complements the soft rice perfectly. You can also serve it alongside pineapple salsa for a sweet and savory bite!
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
If you're preparing for a busy week, this coconut rice can easily be made ahead. After cooking, allow it to cool completely then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or coconut milk in a pot and warm it over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through to restore its fluffy texture.
For longer storage, you can freeze the coconut rice for up to 3 months. Portion it into freezer bags, pressing out any excess air before sealing. When you’re ready to enjoy it, defrost overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a bit of liquid if necessary to prevent dryness.
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 since brown rice requires more liquid and a longer cooking time.
→ Is it possible to make this dish vegan?
Yes, the recipe is already vegan as it uses coconut milk instead of dairy.
→ Can I prepare this rice ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can cook the rice in advance and reheat it when you're ready to serve. Just add a splash of water to keep it moist.
→ What dishes pair well with Jamaican Coconut Rice?
This rice pairs wonderfully with jerk chicken, grilled fish, or a spicy vegetable curry.
Jamaican Coconut Rice
I love making Jamaican Coconut Rice because it’s a simple yet flavorful side dish that elevates any meal. The creamy coconut milk paired with fluffy rice creates a perfect balance that reminds me of my travels to the Caribbean. Whenever I prepare it, the aroma fills my kitchen and takes me back to sun-soaked beaches. Plus, it’s versatile: you can serve it alongside grilled meats, seafood, or even as a base for a veggie bowl. It’s a crowd-pleaser that always leaves everyone asking for the recipe!
Created by: Marianne Hughes
Recipe Type: Global Flavors
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 1 cup jasmine rice
- 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
- 1 cup water
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp sugar
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
How-To Steps
Begin by rinsing the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch, ensuring the rice cooks up fluffy.
In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, coconut milk, water, salt, and sugar. Stir gently to mix.
Place the saucepan over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a boil.
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 18-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
Once cooked, remove the pot from heat and let it sit covered for an additional 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork and fold in the chopped green onions and cilantro.
Extra Tips
- For an extra touch, serve your coconut rice with a slice of lime for a zesty kick.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 220mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 42g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 4g