Coconut Rice Recipe- Creamy, Fragrant, Ready in 25 Minutes
Rice is a staple in many households, but plain white rice can sometimes feel… well, plain. Not this coconut rice though. This recipe is what you need. Long-grain rice cooks in coconut milk with a touch of coconut oil and scallion and the taste is out of this world. The best part? Those are the only ingredients you need for this recipe and the rice is on the table in about 25 minutes.
Why you will love this coconut milk rice recipe
- Fast comfort food – Prep is only a quick rinse and five minutes of stirring.
- Minimal ingredients – Rice, coconut milk, salt, oil, scallion. That is it.
- Naturally dairy-free and vegan – Perfect for most diets and easy on the stomach.
Ingredients for this Recipe
| Ingredient | What it brings | Simple swap |
|---|---|---|
| Long-grain white rice | Fluffy texture that separates nicely | Basmati or jasmine rice |
| Fresh coconut milk | Creamy flavor and natural sweetness | Canned full-fat coconut milk |
| Coconut oil | Boosts coconut taste and keeps grains from sticking | Any neutral oil or butter |
| Scallion | Gentle onion note and color | Slice of fresh ginger or a garlic clove |
| Salt | Balances the sweetness and lifts flavor | Sea salt or kosher salt |
Step-by-Step Guide to Perfect Coconut Rice
- Heat the coconut milk
Pour coconut milk into a medium pot. Add coconut oil, salt, and whole scallion stalks. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat. - Add and stir the rice
Rinse rice in a fine-mesh sieve until the water runs clear. Tip the rice into the pot and give it a good stir so every grain is coated. - Simmer and steam
Cover the pot. Once the milk begins to bubble again, turn the heat to low. Let the rice cook undisturbed until the liquid disappears, about 15 minutes. No peeking. - Rest and fluff
Turn off the heat, lift the lid for a second to release steam, then replace it and let the rice sit 3 minutes. Remove the scallion. Fluff gently with a fork and serve warm.
Tips for the best rice
- Use High-Quality Coconut Milk: Fresh or high-quality canned coconut milk gives the best results.
- Don’t Skip the Rinse: Washing the rice ensures a fluffy, non-sticky texture.
- Low Heat is Key: Cooking on low heat helps the rice absorb the liquid evenly without burning.
Coconut rice recipe serving options
- Partner it with spicy curries, jerk chicken, or grilled fish.
- Use it as the base for poke bowls or stir-fries.
- Vegetarian Options: Pair it with stir-fried vegetables.
- Serve it with chickpea curry.
Storing and reheating
- Refrigerator – Keep rice in a sealed container up to three days.
- Reheat – Add a splash of coconut milk or water and warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring halfway to wake up the grains.
Quick FAQs
Can I use brown rice?
Yes, but extend the simmer time to about 40 minutes and add an extra quarter cup of coconut milk or water.
What if I only have canned coconut milk?
Canned works great. Shake the can well before opening so the cream and liquid combine.
My rice turned out sticky. What went wrong?
Either you stirred too much after simmering started, or the heat was too high. Next time, rinse the rice thoroughly, keep the flame low, and resist the urge to lift the lid.
Coconut Rice
Delicious Coconut Rice recipe. Easy to prepare and ready in just 25 minutes. Customize it with added spices or herbs for a personal touch, and enjoy the simplicity of a dish that’s as nourishing as it is delicious.
$10.90Equipment
- Medium-Sized Pot with Lid: For cooking the rice evenly.
- Wooden Spoon For stirring the ingredients.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons To ensure precise measurements.
- Colander or Sieve: For washing the rice thoroughly.
Ingredients
- 3 cups long grain rice
- 4 cups fresh coconut milk
- 2 tsps salt to taste
- 2 tbsps coconut oil
- 2 stalks scallion
Instructions
- Pour the coconut milk into a pot. Add the coconut oil, salt, and scallion, and bring to a boil on a medium heat.4 cups fresh coconut milk, 2 tsps salt, 2 stalks scallion, 2 tbsps coconut oil
- Wash the rice and pour it into the pot; stir well.3 cups long grain rice
- Cover. Once it starts boiling, turn the heat to low and let the rice cook until all the liquid has evaporated.
- Turn the heat off and let the rice rest for about 3 minutes then serve.
Notes
Customizations:
- Aromatic Addition: Add a piece of ginger or garlic for a fragrant touch.
- Sweet Variation: Stir in a tablespoon of sugar for a slightly sweet version.
- Protein Pairing: Top with shredded chicken or shrimp for a complete meal.
Storage Tips:
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently with a splash of coconut milk or water to maintain moisture.
Serving Suggestions:
- Pair with grilled fish, chicken, or a spicy curry.
- Enjoy as a base for stir-fries or as a standalone dish.
Cooking Tips:
- Use freshly squeezed coconut milk for the best flavor.
- Avoid over-stirring the rice during cooking to prevent it from becoming mushy.
- Let the rice rest after cooking for optimal texture and flavor absorption.
Nutrition
Calories: 283kcalCarbohydrates: 56gProtein: 5gFat: 4gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.2gMonounsaturated Fat: 0.4gSodium: 585mgPotassium: 88mgFiber: 1gSugar: 0.2gVitamin A: 30IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 22mgIron: 1mg
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Check out more rice recipes by Chef B:
Hi, I’m Chef B! Passionate about all things culinary, I’ve spent years perfecting my recipes to bring bold flavors to your kitchen. Let’s cook up something delicious together!
