Jamaican Coconut Rice

Name: Jamaican Coconut Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup jasmine rice; 1 cup coconut milk; 1 cup water; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon sugar (optional); Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I love making Jamaican Coconut Rice because it transforms my meals into a tropical experience. The creamy, coconut-infused rice perfectly complements spicy dishes, bringing balance and a hint of sweetness. Each time I prepare this recipe, the aroma floods my kitchen, transporting me to the Caribbean. It's incredibly easy to make, taking just a few ingredients, and I often find myself savoring every mouthful. This rice side dish is not only versatile but elevates any dinner into a special occasion. Give it a try, and you'll see what I mean!

Created by

Morgan Reeves

Last updated on 2026-01-12T00:49:07.309Z

When I first tasted Jamaican Coconut Rice at a friend's gathering, I knew I had to recreate it at home. The melding of flavors between the coconut milk and fluffy rice blew me away. After several attempts, I discovered that simmering the rice in the coconut milk with the right amount of salt makes all the difference. It’s a simple trick that ensures each grain is well-seasoned and aromatic.

I’ve played around with adding spices like cinnamon or cardamom, but ultimately, I love keeping it traditional and true to its roots. This dish serves as a perfect base for any spicy meat or fish dish, rounding out the meal beautifully. Plus, it's such a crowd-pleaser!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy coconut flavor that enhances any meal
Quick and easy preparation for a weeknight dinner
Perfect side dish for spiced Caribbean cuisine

      

The Importance of Rinsing Rice

Rinsing jasmine rice before cooking is crucial, as it removes excess starch that can lead to gummy rice. The ideal method is to rinse under cold water until the water runs clear, which usually takes around two to three rinses. This process not only helps to achieve fluffy grains but also enhances the texture of your cooked coconut rice, making it light and separate instead of clumpy.

Additionally, rinsing rice helps to wash away impurities that might affect the flavor. It’s a common practice in many rice cooking techniques, and mastering it will elevate your rice dishes. When you skip this step, the final product may not achieve that desired fluffiness, which is essential for the creamy consistency you want from coconut rice.

The Role of Coconut Milk

Coconut milk is the star ingredient in this recipe, providing a rich and creamy flavor that defines Jamaican coconut rice. When selecting coconut milk, opting for full-fat varieties will yield the best results, giving your rice a luscious texture and enhancing the taste. If you're looking for a lighter option, you can use light coconut milk, though it may result in a slightly less rich flavor.

An important note about coconut milk is to shake or stir it well before using, as the solids can separate. This ensures a smooth consistency without any clumps in your final dish. The sweetness of the coconut balances well with savory and spicy dishes, making it an excellent side for anything from jerk chicken to grilled fish.

Serving and Variations

When serving Jamaican coconut rice, garnish it with freshly chopped green onions to add a pop of color and a mild sharpness that accentuates the dish. You might also consider pairing it with lime wedges for a zesty contrast that complements the coconut flavor nicely. This rice pairs beautifully with various proteins and can be a star at any summer barbecue or festive gathering.

Variations on this recipe can include adding different spices or herbs such as cilantro or thyme, which can provide an extra layer of flavor. You can also incorporate peas or bell peppers into the cooking process to add both color and nutrition to your rice. For a twist, try mixing in some toasted coconut flakes after cooking to enhance the coconut flavor even further.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make this delicious Jamaican Coconut Rice:

Ingredients

1 cup jasmine rice
1 cup coconut milk
1 cup water
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)

Once you have all your ingredients ready, you'll be set to create a delicious dish!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your Jamaican Coconut Rice successfully:

Rinse the Rice

Begin by rinsing the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and helps achieve fluffy rice.

Combine Ingredients

In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, coconut milk, water, salt, and sugar if using. Stir gently to mix everything well.

Cook the Rice

Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let it simmer for about 18-20 minutes until all the liquid is absorbed.

Fluff and Serve

After cooking, remove the saucepan from heat and let it sit with the lid on for an additional 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with chopped green onions before serving.

This dish is perfect alongside grilled meats or spicy curries.

Pro Tips

For an added flavor boost, try toasting the rice in a little coconut oil before boiling it. This will enhance the nuttiness and depth of the coconut flavor.

Make-Ahead Tips

If you're planning to prepare Jamaican coconut rice in advance, you can make it up to a day ahead and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To reheat, add a splash of water or coconut milk and warm it gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. This method helps to keep the rice moist and prevents it from drying out.

For longer storage, consider portioning the cooked rice into freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to use it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat as previously described. This way, you can enjoy a taste of the Caribbean anytime without having to start from scratch.

Common Troubleshooting

If your coconut rice turns out too sticky, this is often due to using rice that hasn't been rinsed properly. Always take the time to rinse the grains thoroughly, and consider using a little less coconut milk next time, as too much can sometimes lead to a gummy texture.

Alternatively, if the rice is too dry or undercooked, it's likely that the heat was too high or it didn't simmer long enough. Ensure you cover the saucepan completely while it simmers, and if needed, add a bit more water and continue cooking until it's just right. Remember, patience is key with cooking rice!

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don’t have jasmine rice on hand, you can substitute it with basmati rice, which also provides a nice aroma and fluffy texture. Long-grain rice varieties work well too, though they may require slightly different cooking times, so keep an eye on the texture as it cooks.

For those looking to make this dish vegan or dairy-free, be assured that coconut milk is already suitable. In cases where you're avoiding sugar, you can leave out the sugar altogether, or substitute it with a natural sweetener, although the traditional sugar version complements the dish well by enhancing the coconut flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead?

Yes, you can use brown rice, but it will require a longer cooking time and additional water.

→ Is this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! This recipe is completely plant-based and vegan-friendly.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time and reheat it when you’re ready to serve.

→ What dishes pair well with coconut rice?

Coconut rice pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, curries, and any spicy dishes.