Jamaican Coconut Rice

Name: Jamaican Coconut Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups jasmine rice; 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk; 1 cup water; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon sugar; 1/4 cup chopped green onions (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love making Jamaican Coconut Rice! It's a delightful twist on traditional rice that brings a tropical flair right to my kitchen. The creamy coconut milk, paired with soft grains and a hint of sweetness, creates a flavor profile that reminds me of my favorite beach escapes. I find that this dish not only complements spicy meals beautifully but also stands out on its own. Each bite transports me to sun-kissed shores, making it an unforgettable side dish for any occasion.

Created by

Veronica Miles

Last updated on 2026-01-13T23:10:13.615Z

During my many culinary adventures, I've discovered that the secret to perfect Jamaican Coconut Rice lies in using quality coconut milk and letting the rice absorb all its richness. I remember the first time I tried this recipe; the coconut fragrance filled my kitchen, and it was love at first bite! I like to add a hint of salt to really enhance the sweet and savory balance.

Another tip I've learned is to let the rice rest for a few minutes before serving. This little pause allows the flavors to meld beautifully and ensures a fluffy texture. I've served this rice with everything from grilled chicken to curries, and it has never failed to impress!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy coconut flavor that pairs well with any dish
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights
Tropical twist that brightens up your dinner table

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The base of this Jamaican Coconut Rice is jasmine rice, celebrated for its fragrant aroma and slightly sticky texture when cooked. This rice variety absorbs the creamy coconut milk beautifully, allowing the flavors to meld perfectly. If jasmine rice isn't available, you may substitute it with basmati rice, though the taste and texture will vary slightly. Ensure to rinse any rice thoroughly before cooking to remove excess starch, which prevents clumping and promotes fluffiness.

Coconut milk is the star ingredient that adds the signature tropical flavor and creaminess. Make sure to use full-fat coconut milk for a richer taste, but if you're looking for a lighter option, you can use light coconut milk or even substitute with a combination of almond milk and coconut extract. However, keep in mind that the flavor may not be as pronounced. The sugar added balances the saltiness and enhances the overall taste without overpowering the dish.

Cooking Techniques for Perfect Rice

When combining the ingredients in the saucepan, stir gently before bringing it to a boil. This helps evenly distribute the salt and sugar throughout the rice without breaking the grains. Watching the pot closely during the initial boil is crucial; once boiling, reduce the heat immediately to avoid burning the bottom layer of rice. Using a tight-fitting lid during simmering ensures that steam is trapped, which is essential for consistent cooking and achieving that fluffy texture.

After cooking, letting the rice sit covered for an additional 10 minutes before fluffing is key. This resting time allows any remaining moisture to redistribute throughout the rice grains, resulting in a tender yet fluffy bite. Using a fork to fluff, rather than a spoon, helps maintain the grains’ integrity while separating them, preventing the dish from becoming mushy.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make the perfect Jamaican Coconut Rice.

Ingredients

2 cups jasmine rice
1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
1 cup water
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon sugar
1/4 cup chopped green onions (for garnish)

Once you have everything ready, you're just a few steps away from a delicious dish!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to cook your Jamaican Coconut Rice perfectly every time.

Rinse the Rice

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

Combine Ingredients

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

Cook the Rice

Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce to low heat, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes.

Fluff and Serve

Once cooked, remove from heat and let it sit covered for an additional 10 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with chopped green onions before serving.

Enjoy your Jamaican Coconut Rice as a delightful side dish to your favorite meals!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, you can add a few sprigs of fresh thyme or a dash of lime juice before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Jamaican Coconut Rice pairs beautifully with many dishes, but it shines particularly well alongside spicy Caribbean curries or grilled meats. The inherent sweetness and creaminess of the rice create a harmonious balance, soothing the heat of spicy dishes. For a full meal, consider serving it alongside jerk chicken or curried vegetables, allowing the flavors to enhance each other exceptionally.

For those looking to elevate their presentation, serve the coconut rice in a hollowed-out coconut shell or alongside tropical fruits such as mango or pineapple. It adds a visual flair and enhances the tropical theme, transforming your meal into a vibrant culinary experience.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Jamaican Coconut Rice can be made ahead of time, making it a great option for meal prepping. After cooking, let the rice cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days. When reheating, add a splash of water or additional coconut milk to prevent it from drying out, and cover the pan to create steam for even heating.

If you'd like to freeze the coconut rice, portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers. It can last in the freezer for up to three months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm gently on the stove, adding liquid as needed to bring back its fluffy texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of jasmine rice?

Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time and water amount, as brown rice requires more liquid and a longer cooking time.

→ Is there a dairy-free option?

The recipe is naturally dairy-free as it uses coconut milk. Make sure to check that your coconut milk is free from additives.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Cool the rice completely and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze Jamaican Coconut Rice?

Yes, you can freeze it! Just make sure to cool it down completely, then portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers.