Easy Coconut Rice: Creamy Thai-Style Side Dish in 30 Minutes

Perfect Coconut Rice: A Tropical Thai-Inspired Side Dish

Fragrant coconut rice is one of those deceptively simple dishes that transforms any meal from ordinary to restaurant-quality with minimal effort. This creamy, slightly sweet jasmine rice cooked in coconut milk pairs beautifully with Thai curries, stir-fries, or grilled meats and seafood.

Why You’ll Love This Coconut Rice Recipe

There’s something magical about the combination of fragrant jasmine rice and rich coconut milk. This coconut rice recipe delivers:

• Incredible flavor with just 4 simple ingredients
• Perfect texture – fluffy, not sticky or mushy
• Easy preparation – just combine and simmer
• Versatility – complements countless main dishes
• Authentic taste inspired by Thai cuisine

Ingredients for Perfect Coconut Rice

• 1½ cups uncooked jasmine rice
• 1 (14 ounce) can coconut milk
• 1¼ cups water
• 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
• ½ teaspoon salt
• Fresh cilantro or sliced green onions for garnish (optional)

Ingredient Notes

Jasmine rice: This Thai fragrant rice is the traditional choice for coconut rice. Its natural floral aroma complements the coconut perfectly.

Coconut milk: Use full-fat coconut milk for the richest, creamiest result. Light coconut milk works but produces a less luxurious texture.

Sugar and salt: These small amounts enhance the natural sweetness of the coconut while balancing flavors.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Coconut Rice

1. Rinse the jasmine rice in cold water until the water runs mostly clear, about 2-3 times. This removes excess starch and prevents gummy rice.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, coconut milk, water, sugar, and salt.
3. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium-high heat.
4. Once boiling, stir once, reduce heat to low, and cover with a tight-fitting lid.
5. Simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until all liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
6. Remove from heat and let stand, covered, for 5-10 minutes to allow the rice to finish steaming.
7. Fluff gently with a fork before serving. Garnish with cilantro or green onions if desired.

Pro Tips for the Best Coconut Rice

• Don’t skip rinsing the rice – This crucial step removes excess starch and prevents your coconut rice from becoming gummy.
• Use the right pot – A medium saucepan with a tight-fitting lid helps trap steam for evenly cooked rice.
• Resist the urge to peek – Opening the lid releases steam and can result in undercooked rice.
• Let it rest – The 5-10 minute resting period allows moisture to distribute evenly throughout the rice.
• Fluff don’t stir – Use a fork to gently fluff the rice rather than a spoon which can crush the grains.

Serving Suggestions for Coconut Rice

This versatile coconut rice pairs beautifully with so many dishes:

• Thai red or green curry
• Grilled or roasted chicken with tropical marinade
• Stir-fried vegetables with soy or teriyaki sauce
• Spicy shrimp or fish dishes
• Tropical fruit like mango or pineapple for a sweet twist

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Refrigeration: Store leftover coconut rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Reheating: For best results, add 1-2 tablespoons of water to the rice before reheating in the microwave, covered, for 1-2 minutes. Alternatively, reheat in a saucepan with a little water over low heat.

Can You Freeze Coconut Rice?

Yes! Coconut rice freezes well for up to 3 months. Store in airtight containers or freezer bags. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating with a little added moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions About Coconut Rice

Can I use brown rice instead of jasmine rice?

Yes, but you’ll need to increase the cooking time to 35-40 minutes and you may need to add an extra ¼ cup of water.

Can I make this in a rice cooker?

Absolutely! Simply add all ingredients to your rice cooker and use the white rice setting.

What if I don’t have jasmine rice?

Long-grain white rice makes a good substitute, though it lacks the aromatic quality of jasmine rice.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this coconut rice recipe is naturally gluten-free.

Nutrition Information

Per Serving:
453 calories
61g carbohydrates
7g protein
21g fat
19g saturated fat
54mg sodium
1g sugar
2g fiber

Conclusion: Why Coconut Rice Deserves a Place in Your Recipe Collection

With its creamy texture, subtle sweetness, and tropical aroma, coconut rice elevates any meal from ordinary to extraordinary. Once you master this simple technique, you’ll find yourself making it again and again as the perfect complement to curries, stir-fries, and grilled dishes. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity – just a few ingredients transform plain rice into something truly special.

Recipe inspired by AllRecipes Asian Coconut Rice