Jamaican Coconut Rice

Name: Jamaican Coconut Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups jasmine rice; 1 can (400ml) coconut milk; 1 cup water; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional); Chopped cilantro for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: World Gourmet Creations

I have always been captivated by the vibrant flavors of Jamaican cuisine, and this Jamaican Coconut Rice recipe truly captures the essence of the islands. The creamy coconut milk combined with perfectly cooked rice creates a side dish that is both nutty and slightly sweet. It elevates any meal, whether served alongside grilled meats or as a hearty base for a vegetable curry. Trust me, once you've tried this dish, it will become a staple in your kitchen.

Created by

Arabella Scott

Last updated on 2026-01-12T03:16:12.456Z

Preparing Jamaican Coconut Rice has become one of my favorite go-to recipes for family gatherings and cozy dinners alike. The rich coconut flavor, paired with fluffy rice, has always drawn compliments from everyone who tries it. As I experimented with this dish, I learned that using a good quality coconut milk not only makes a difference in flavor but also in the creaminess of the rice. A small dash of salt enhances the sweetness of the coconut, making every bite simply delectable.

I initially hesitated to make coconut rice at home, thinking it might be too complicated. However, I was pleasantly surprised by how straightforward the process is. The key is to let the rice absorb the coconut milk completely, which infuses it with flavor. A little patience during the cooking process pays off, resulting in a dish that wowed my family and friends. Each time I make it, I’m reminded of the sunny shores of Jamaica.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Creamy texture from rich coconut milk
Subtle sweetness that complements savory dishes
Quick to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners

      

The Role of Coconut Milk

Coconut milk is the star ingredient in this recipe, providing a rich, creamy texture that makes Jamaican Coconut Rice stand out. The fat content in the coconut milk adds a depth of flavor that plain water simply cannot match. It's essential to use full-fat coconut milk for the best results; light versions may lead to a bland outcome. When combined with the jasmine rice, the milk coats each grain, resulting in a luscious and aromatic side dish.

When choosing your coconut milk, opt for brands that are preservative-free for the purest flavor. You can also create your own by blending fresh coconut meat with water if you're up for it! The sweetness from the coconut pairs harmoniously with savory elements in your meal, making it an ideal companion for spicy dishes or grilled proteins.

Perfecting Rice Cooking Techniques

Rinsing the rice is an often-overlooked step, but it’s crucial. By washing the jasmine rice until the water runs clear, you remove excess starch that can make the rice sticky and clump together. This guarantees that your end result will be fluffy and distinct grains of rice. If you forget to rinse, the rice can still be saved; simply reduce the cooking time by a few minutes and stir gently to minimize sticking.

When cooking the rice, keep an eye on the simmering phase. If you notice the liquid bubbling too vigorously, reduce the heat further. The goal is to achieve a gentle simmer to prevent burning on the bottom while ensuring that the rice cooks evenly. You should see small steam holes appear in the rice when it's nearly done, indicating it’s time to remove it from the heat.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Jamaican Coconut Rice is incredibly versatile. While it's fantastic as a side dish, consider using it as a base for a tropical grain bowl. Top it with grilled pineapple, black beans, and avocado for a refreshing meal. You can also pair it with spicy curries or stews, as the coconut flavor complements rich sauces beautifully. If you're feeling adventurous, mix in other ingredients like diced bell peppers or peas for added color and nutrition.

For those looking to elevate the dish further, add toasted coconut flakes on top just before serving for a delightful crunch and additional coconut flavor. You can also try replacing some of the water with pineapple juice or adding a few lime leaves during cooking for a citrusy twist. This recipe is easy to adapt, so feel free to experiment with flavors that suit your palate!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this delicious dish:

Ingredients

2 cups jasmine rice
1 can (400ml) coconut milk
1 cup water
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Chopped cilantro for garnish (optional)

These simple yet flavorful ingredients will bring your Jamaican Coconut Rice to life.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make the rice:

Rinse the Rice

Start by rinsing the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming gummy.

Combine Ingredients

In a medium pot, combine the rinsed rice, coconut milk, water, salt, and sugar. Stir gently to mix everything together.

Cook the Rice

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

Fluff and Serve

After cooking, remove the pot from heat. Let it sit covered for 5 minutes, then fluff the rice with a fork. Optionally, stir in the vanilla extract and garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.

Now your Jamaican Coconut Rice is ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider toasting the rice in a little olive oil before adding the liquids. This gives the rice a slightly nutty taste.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

One of the best features of Jamaican Coconut Rice is that it can be made ahead of time. Prepare it a day or two in advance, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This not only saves time during busy weeknights but also allows the flavors to meld for a richer taste when reheated.

To reheat, simply add a splash of water in a pan over medium heat, covering it to create steam which will help fluff the rice up again. If you're in a hurry, a microwave works too; just add a little water, cover the dish, and heat in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even warming.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find your rice comes out too mushy, it could be due to overcooking or using too much liquid. For future reference, always measure your liquid accurately, and consider reducing the cooking time slightly if your stove tends to run hot. Conversely, if your rice feels undercooked, it might need a bit more time and liquid; add in a splash more coconut milk or water and simmer for an additional 5 minutes.

Achieving the right balance of flavors can also be a challenge. If you find the rice too sweet for your taste, feel free to reduce the sugar or skip it entirely. The coconut milk provides natural sweetness, and sometimes less is more when it comes to balancing flavors.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe with brown rice?

Yes, but you will need to increase the cooking time and the amount of liquid used.

→ Is there a vegetarian alternative to this dish?

Absolutely! This recipe is vegetarian-friendly as is, just ensure your coconut milk is dairy-free.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftover rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Yes, you can add vegetables like peas or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition!