Jamaican Coconut Rice

Name: Jamaican Coconut Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup jasmine rice; 1 cup coconut milk; 1 cup water; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon sugar; 1/4 cup shredded coconut (optional); Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love making Jamaican Coconut Rice for special occasions or whenever I want to indulge in tropical flavors. The combination of creamy coconut milk and fluffy rice creates a side dish that's both comforting and aromatic. I've experimented with different rice types, but I find that jasmine or basmati works best to absorb the coconut's essence. This dish is incredibly simple, taking minimal preparation time, yet it always impresses guests with its rich flavors and enticing aroma.

Created by

Veronica Miles

Last updated on 2026-01-06T10:40:10.727Z

When I first tasted Jamaican Coconut Rice at a friend's gathering, I was mesmerized by its delightful balance of sweetness and creaminess. I decided to recreate it at home, and after a few attempts, I found that using full-fat coconut milk truly enhances the experience. It allows the rice to soak up all that tropical goodness, making each bite a mini-vacation.

One of my favorite tips is to let the rice rest for a few minutes after cooking. This ensures the grains become perfectly fluffy and allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Whether served alongside grilled meats or as part of a vegetarian feast, it's bound to impress anyone who tries it!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Aromatic and creamy texture welcomes your taste buds.
Easy to prepare while offering an exotic escape to the tropics.
Versatile dish that complements a variety of main courses.

      

Understanding the Ingredients

Using high-quality jasmine rice is essential for achieving the perfect texture in Jamaican Coconut Rice. Jasmine rice has a natural aromatic quality and a slightly sticky texture when cooked, which allows it to hold onto the luscious coconut milk. If you wish to experiment, basmati rice is a good substitute; however, it may produce less sticky results. Personally, I recommend sticking with jasmine for the best flavor absorption.

Coconut milk is the heart of this dish, providing its rich and creamy texture. To ensure a well-rounded coconut flavor, opt for canned coconut milk without added preservatives or fillers. If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can mix half coconut milk with half vegetable broth. Just keep in mind that this will alter the traditional, rich taste of the rice.

Perfecting Your Cooking Technique

Rinsing the rice before cooking is crucial for a fluffy finish. This removes excess starch that can lead to a gummy texture. Make sure to rinse until the water runs completely clear; typically, this will take about 3-4 washes. After rinsing, allow the rice to drain for a few minutes before combining it with the other ingredients to avoid using excess water in the cooking process.

While cooking, it's important to monitor the heat closely. Begin cooking over medium heat to bring the mixture to a boil, then immediately reduce to low to prevent the coconut milk from scorching. When simmering, keep the lid on to trap steam and ensure even cooking. After 20 minutes, take a peek; if there's still liquid visible, cover and cook for an additional few minutes until fully absorbed.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to bring a taste of Jamaica to your table.

For the Coconut Rice

1 cup jasmine rice
1 cup coconut milk
1 cup water
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon sugar
1/4 cup shredded coconut (optional)
Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Follow these steps for perfect Jamaican Coconut Rice.

Rinse the Rice

Begin by thoroughly rinsing the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This step helps to remove excess starch, ensuring fluffy rice.

Combine Ingredients

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

Cook the Rice

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

Fluff and Serve

After cooking, remove the pan from heat and let it sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork and stir in the shredded coconut if desired. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider incorporating a touch of vanilla extract or a pinch of cinnamon during the cooking process. This can elevate the dish to a new level and add a unique twist!

Serving Suggestions

Jamaican Coconut Rice pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes, particularly spicy Caribbean entrees like jerk chicken or grilled shrimp. The creamy rice helps to temper the heat of spices and enhances the overall meal. For a lighter option, consider serving it alongside grilled vegetables or a fresh mango salad.

To elevate your dish, consider adding some additional toppings. Sliced avocado provides a rich creaminess, while a sprinkle of lime zest can brighten the flavors. If you enjoy a bit of crunch, toasted peanuts or almonds make for an excellent finishing touch.

Make-Ahead and Storage

You can prepare Jamaican Coconut Rice in advance, making it an excellent option for busy weeknights or gatherings. Once cooked, allow the rice to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or coconut milk to restore moisture, then microwave or warm on the stovetop over low heat until heated through.

If you want to store it for a longer period, Jamaican Coconut Rice can be frozen. Portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers, pressing out as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. It will last for up to three months in the freezer. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and follow the reheating tips mentioned earlier.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of jasmine rice?

Yes, but keep in mind that brown rice will take longer to cook and may need more liquid.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftover rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave with a splash of coconut milk to restore creaminess.

→ Is it possible to make this dish vegan?

Absolutely! The recipe is naturally vegan as long as you use plant-based ingredients.

→ Can I prepare this rice in advance?

Yes, you can prepare it a few hours ahead of time and reheat it before serving. Just be sure to keep it covered to retain moisture.