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; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon sugar (optional); Chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish, optional)

Highlighted under: Global Kitchen

I absolutely love making Jamaican Coconut Rice for my family, especially during special occasions. The creamy texture from the coconut milk combined with the subtle sweetness of the coconut adds a unique flavor that always impresses my guests. This dish perfectly complements a variety of main courses, and its simplicity makes it a go-to recipe for weeknight dinners. Not only does it taste delightful, but the aroma that fills the kitchen while it cooks is simply irresistible. Let's dive into making this delightful side dish!

Created by

Winifred Calder

Last updated on 2026-01-13T00:25:35.043Z

When I first tried Jamaican Coconut Rice, I was amazed at how such a simple dish could be so flavorful. I decided to recreate it at home, capturing the essence of the Caribbean cuisine with ingredients I had on hand. To my surprise, the combination of coconut milk and jasmine rice created a creamy, luscious rice that transformed my usual meal into something extraordinary.

During my experiments, I learned that to achieve the perfect texture, it’s essential to let the rice sit covered after cooking. This allows it to steam and absorb the coconut flavor thoroughly, making each bite rich and satisfying. Now, this dish is a staple at my table, and I can't wait for you to try it!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A unique blend of creamy coconut flavor and fluffy rice
Perfectly pairs with spicy dishes for a balanced meal
Easy to prepare, making it a great weeknight side

The Importance of Ingredients

Using jasmine rice is key to achieving the perfect texture for Jamaican Coconut Rice. This variety has a subtle floral aroma and a slightly sticky texture, which complements the creaminess of the coconut milk beautifully. If jasmine rice is unavailable, you can substitute it with basmati rice, though you'll want to adjust the cooking time to ensure it doesn't become mushy. Be sure to rinse the rice thoroughly to remove excess starch, which keeps the grains separate and fluffy.

Coconut milk is the star of this dish, imparting a rich, tropical flavor that enhances the overall experience. Opt for full-fat coconut milk for a creamier finish, but light coconut milk can be used if you're looking for a healthier version. You can even make your own coconut milk by blending unsweetened shredded coconut with water and straining it. Just remember that the consistency may vary, and adjust the water in the recipe accordingly.

The addition of salt and sugar plays a crucial role in balancing flavors. The salt enhances the coconut's sweetness, while the sugar—though optional—adds a hint of sweetness that elevates the dish. If you prefer a less sweet version, feel free to omit the sugar, but a small amount can add depth to the overall taste.

Tips for Cooking Perfect Rice

When cooking the rice, achieving the right simmering temperature is essential. After bringing the mixture to a boil, reducing the heat to low is crucial to prevent the rice from burning or sticking to the bottom of the pan. Use a heavy-bottomed saucepan to distribute heat evenly, and avoid lifting the lid during cooking to retain steam and moisture.

If you find that your rice isn't cooked through after the recommended 25 minutes, simply give it a few more minutes on low heat. You can also add a splash of water if you notice it drying out. However, be cautious not to add too much liquid, as it may result in soggy rice. Searching for the right doneness? Each grain should be tender yet slightly chewy, with a fluffy texture that separates easily.

Allowing the rice to sit covered for an additional 10 minutes post-cooking is a game-changer. This resting period ensures that any remaining steam fully permeates the rice, enhancing its overall texture. When you fluff the rice with a fork afterward, you'll notice that it becomes even lighter and more airy, making it an ideal canvas for absorbing the flavors of whatever you're serving it with.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create your Jamaican Coconut Rice.

Ingredients

2 cups jasmine rice
1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
1 cup water
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
Chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish, optional)

Ensure all ingredients are ready for a smooth cooking experience.

Instructions

Follow these steps for perfect Jamaican Coconut Rice.

Rinse the Rice

Start by rinsing the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This step helps remove excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming sticky.

Combine Ingredients

In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, coconut milk, water, salt, and sugar (if using). Stir well to mix all the ingredients.

Cook the Rice

Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let it simmer for about 25 minutes until the rice is cooked through and the liquid is absorbed.

Let It Rest

Once cooked, remove the saucepan from heat but keep it covered. Let the rice sit for an additional 10 minutes. This step allows the rice to steam and become fluffy.

Fluff and Serve

After resting, fluff the rice with a fork and transfer it to a serving dish. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro if desired, and enjoy your delicious Jamaican Coconut Rice!

Enjoy the delightful flavors of your homemade Jamaican Coconut Rice.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider incorporating a bay leaf or a few cardamom pods while the rice cooks. Just remember to remove them before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Jamaican Coconut Rice pairs beautifully with spicy or savory dishes, making it an excellent side for jerk chicken, curry, or grilled seafood. The creaminess of the coconut rice provides a cooling contrast, balancing out the heat and enriching each bite. I often serve it alongside a fresh mango salad or roasted vegetables for a colorful and flavorful meal.

For a more substantial dish, consider adding black beans or cooked vegetables to the rice just before fluffing it. This not only boosts the nutritional value but also adds textural diversity. You can also serve it family-style, allowing guests to scoop their portions directly from the serving dish, enhancing the communal dining experience.

If you have leftovers, Jamaican Coconut Rice makes a delightful base for a quick lunch. I enjoy reheating it and adding a fried egg on top, garnished with some extra cilantro for brightness. You could also stir in some chopped scallions or nuts for added crunch, transforming it into a completely new dish!

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Preparing Jamaican Coconut Rice ahead of time is easy and convenient. You can cook the rice earlier in the day and keep it covered at room temperature for up to 4 hours. When ready to serve, simply fluff it up with a fork and warm it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water to restore moisture.

For longer storage, place the cooled rice in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. If freezing, make sure to portion it out for easier thawing. To reheat, add a tablespoon of water to the rice before microwaving or steaming, ensuring it heats evenly without drying out.

If you’re looking to serve it at a gathering, you can also keep the rice warm in a slow cooker on the 'keep warm' setting. Just remember to stir occasionally and check the consistency, adding a bit of water if it starts to dry out. This helps maintain that desirable fluffy texture while allowing you to enjoy the festivities!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of jasmine rice?

Yes, but you'll need to adjust the cooking time and water amount, as brown rice takes longer to cook.

→ Is there a vegan version of this recipe?

This recipe is naturally vegan since it uses coconut milk and does not contain any animal products.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store the cooked coconut rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze this rice?

Yes, you can freeze the rice. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.