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 (13.5 oz) coconut milk; 1 cup water; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon sugar; 1/2 cup green onions, chopped

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love making Jamaican Coconut Rice at home! The combination of fluffy rice and creamy coconut milk creates a delightful dish that perfectly accompanies any Caribbean meal. I often serve it alongside grilled meats or spicy curries, and it never fails to impress. The subtle sweetness from the coconut adds a unique flavor that transports me right to the tropics. Plus, it’s surprisingly simple to make, which makes it an ideal side dish for both casual family dinners and festive gatherings.

Created by

Natalie Warren

Last updated on 2026-01-13T22:22:11.376Z

When I first tasted Jamaican Coconut Rice during a vacation, I knew I had to recreate it at home. The aromas of coconut and spices filled my kitchen, and with just a few simple ingredients, I was able to capture that tropical essence. I learned that using good quality coconut milk is key to achieving that rich taste, and I've developed my own little twist by adding a pinch of salt and fresh herbs.

Every time I serve this dish, it reminds me of the warm beaches of Jamaica. It pairs beautifully with anything from jerk chicken to sautéed vegetables. My tip is to let the rice rest after cooking. This step allows the flavors to meld perfectly. Trust me, you won’t be able to resist this creamy, fragrant rice!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Creamy coconut flavor that transports you to the tropics
Versatile side dish that pairs well with countless main courses
Simple and quick to make, perfect for any weeknight meal

      

The Role of Coconut Milk

Coconut milk plays a central role in imparting the distinctive flavor and creaminess to this Jamaican Coconut Rice. By using full-fat coconut milk, you ensure a rich texture that elevates the dish. Opt for natural, unsweetened coconut milk for the best results; sweetened versions can alter the flavor profile significantly. If you prefer a lighter version, you can mix coconut milk with vegetable broth, maintaining the tropical essence while reducing fat content.

When adding coconut milk, be mindful of the coconut fat content. It's common for the cream to separate; if you find a thick layer on top, simply stir it back in before cooking. This step enhances the rice's creaminess and gives it a glossy finish. If you find the coconut flavor too strong after cooking, a squeeze of lime can balance the richness beautifully.

Cooking Techniques for Perfect Rice

Rinsing the rice is crucial to achieving the perfect texture and preventing stickiness. As you rinse, pay attention to how the water changes color - ideally, you want it to run clear, which indicates thorough cleansing of excess starch. For enhanced flavor, you can also sauté the rinsed rice in a tablespoon of oil for a couple of minutes before adding the coconut milk and water, which creates a nutty aroma.

Simmering at the right heat level is key to successful rice. After bringing the mixture to a boil, reduce the heat to low. The cover should remain on; this traps steam that helps cook the rice evenly. If you lift the lid during cooking, you risk losing steam, which can lead to unevenly cooked rice or a dried-out texture. Keep it covered until the cooking time is complete.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This Jamaican Coconut Rice pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. I often serve it with grilled jerk chicken or spicy seafood curries, as the creamy texture complements the bold flavors. For added flair, consider sprinkling a few toasted sesame seeds or coconut flakes on top before serving to enhance the visual appeal and provide a bit of crunch.

For flavor variations, consider incorporating spices like turmeric or curry powder into the cooking liquid for added depth, or serve the rice with chopped cilantro for a fresh finish. If you're looking to turn this dish into a main meal, add some beans or lentils during cooking for protein, creating a delightful tropical rice bowl.

Ingredients

For the Coconut Rice

2 cups jasmine rice
1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
1 cup water
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon sugar
1/2 cup green onions, chopped

Make sure to rinse the rice before cooking to remove excess starch!

Instructions

Rinse the Rice

Start by rinsing the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. This will help in preventing the rice from being too sticky.

Combine Ingredients

In a medium pot, combine the rinsed rice, coconut milk, water, salt, and sugar. Stir until evenly mixed.

Cook the Rice

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

Fluff and Serve

Remove the pot from heat and let it rest for 5 minutes. Then, fluff the rice with a fork and mix in the chopped green onions before serving.

Enjoy your Jamaican Coconut Rice warm, and don’t forget to pair it with your favorite main dish!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding a bay leaf or a cinnamon stick to the pot while the rice cooks. Remove before serving for an aromatic effect.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This coconut rice can easily be made ahead of time, making it a wonderful option for busy weeknights or meal prep. Once cooked, allow it to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to four days, ready to reheat whenever needed. Just add a splash of water while reheating to restore moisture and fluffiness.

If you wish to freeze the rice for longer storage, place it in freezer-safe bags, ensuring to flatten them for efficient storage. It can last up to three months in the freezer. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating or use a microwave on a defrost setting. Reheating on the stovetop with a little additional coconut milk will help retain its creamy texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

While this recipe calls for jasmine rice for its fragrant qualities, you can also use basmati or long-grain white rice in a pinch. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly based on the type of rice. For a whole grain alternative, brown rice can be used, but it will require a longer cooking time (about 40-45 minutes) and more liquid (usually one and a half times the amount compared to white rice).

Sugar in this recipe adds a hint of sweetness to balance the flavors. If you prefer to avoid it, consider substituting with honey or maple syrup, but be cautious with the amounts since these are liquid sweeteners. Stevia or other sugar alternatives can also work but should be adjusted according to personal taste as their sweetness level varies.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of jasmine rice?

Yes, but be aware that brown rice will require a longer cooking time and more liquid. Adjust the recipe accordingly.

→ How can I make this dish vegan?

This recipe is already vegan, as it includes only rice and coconut milk without any animal products.

→ Can I store leftovers?

Absolutely! Store leftover coconut rice in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.

→ What can I serve with Jamaican Coconut Rice?

It pairs wonderfully with jerk chicken, fish curries, or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.