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); 1/2 cup shredded coconut (optional, for garnish)

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love making Jamaican Coconut Rice because it brings a taste of the tropics right to my dining table. The combination of creamy coconut milk and fluffy rice creates a delightful dish that's perfect as a side or even as a main meal. Each bite is infused with subtle sweetness and a hint of salt, making it irresistible. I enjoy serving it with grilled meats or spicy curries, which nicely balance the dish's rich flavors. Let's dive into this easy, yet incredibly flavorful recipe!

Created by

Georgia Lane

Last updated on 2026-01-13T19:31:17.290Z

During one of my culinary experiments, I decided to recreate the flavors of Jamaica in my kitchen. I was pleasantly surprised by how simple it was to make Coconut Rice, and it quickly became a family favorite. Using coconut milk instead of water infuses the rice with a wonderful creaminess and flavor profile that is uniquely vibrant.

What sets this dish apart is the balance of sweetness and saltiness, enhanced by a pinch of salt. I recommend using basmati or jasmine rice for an even better texture that pairs exquisitely with your entrees. It's a dish that you’ll want to share at every gathering!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Creamy coconut flavor that transports you to the islands
Flexible enough to pair with any protein or vegetable dish
Easy to prepare yet delivers impressive results

      

The Importance of Rinsing Rice

Rinsing jasmine rice is a crucial step in preparing Jamaican Coconut Rice. This process removes excess starch from the grains, which helps achieve a lighter, fluffier end result. If you skip this step, you may end up with sticky rice that clumps together instead of the individual, fluffy grains you desire. To rinse, simply place the rice in a fine mesh strainer and run it under cold water until the water runs clear, which usually takes about 1-2 minutes.

In addition to improving texture, rinsing the rice refreshes its flavor, removing any residual earthy notes. This is especially important when pairing the rice with the richness of coconut milk. For those who might be considering alternative rice types, this rinsing technique applies to most long-grain varieties and would help any rice dish achieve the best possible texture.

Coconut Milk Choices

Selecting the right coconut milk can significantly affect the flavor and creaminess of Jamaican Coconut Rice. Full-fat coconut milk yields a richer, creamier dish, while light versions will offer a less intense coconut presence, potentially resulting in a drier texture. If you are looking for a dairy alternative, make sure to choose a premium brand that doesn't contain unnecessary additives; pure coconut milk is best for enhancing the dish without altering its taste.

For an interesting twist, consider using coconut cream instead of coconut milk for an even creamier consistency. You can also blend equal parts coconut milk with another liquid such as vegetable or chicken broth to enrich the flavor profile. If you're watching your calories, using half coconut milk and half water is an excellent compromise.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make Jamaican Coconut Rice:

Ingredients

1 cup jasmine rice
1 cup coconut milk
1 cup water
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
1/2 cup shredded coconut (optional, for garnish)

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s move on to the cooking steps!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create your flavorful Coconut Rice:

Rinse the Rice

Start by rinsing the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and ensures that the rice cooks up fluffy.

Combine Ingredients

In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, coconut milk, water, salt, and sugar if you're using it.

Cook the Rice

Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the saucepan. Allow the rice to simmer for about 18-20 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.

Fluff and Serve

Remove the saucepan from heat and let the rice sit for 5 minutes. Fluff it with a fork before serving. Garnish with shredded coconut if desired.

Your delicious Jamaican Coconut Rice is now ready to enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a bay leaf or some garlic while the rice cooks. It elevates the dish remarkably well.

Serving Suggestions

Jamaican Coconut Rice is incredibly versatile, making it an excellent side dish for a variety of meals. I particularly love pairing it with grilled jerk chicken, as the spicy, smoky flavors contrast beautifully with the creamy texture of the rice. It also complements spicy curries and stews, balancing the heat while adding richness. For a vegetarian option, it pairs wonderfully with sautéed vegetables or a chunky bean salad, elevating the meal with a tropical flair.

If you're looking to serve this dish in a creative way, consider making a coconut rice bowl. Start with a base of the coconut rice, then layer on grilled shrimp or a mango salsa, topped with fresh cilantro for freshness. These layered flavors not only elevate the dining experience but also create a beautiful presentation for special occasions.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Storing leftover Jamaican Coconut Rice is straightforward. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will last in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to three months. When freezing, portion the rice into smaller servings for easy reheating. Remember to label your containers with the date to keep track of freshness.

To reheat coconut rice, add a splash of coconut milk or water to prevent it from drying out. You can microwave it in short intervals at medium power, stirring every minute to ensure even heating. Alternatively, reheating in a covered saucepan over medium-low heat works well too — just remember to add moisture. If the rice seems dry, you can also fluff it with a fork after reheating to restore its light texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! This recipe is already vegan as it uses coconut milk instead of dairy.

→ What can I serve with Jamaican Coconut Rice?

This rice pairs excellently with grilled meats, fish, or spicy curries.

→ Can I use brown rice instead?

Yes, you can! Just note that brown rice will require a longer cooking time.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave.