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 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon sugar; 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional)

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely adore making Jamaican Coconut Rice, as it perfectly combines tropical flavors and creamy textures. The rich coconut milk enhances the rice, turning a simple side dish into something special. I love the way the aroma fills my kitchen, transporting me to sunny beaches with every bite. This recipe is not only easy to make but also a fantastic complement to my favorite Caribbean dishes. Trust me, this coconut rice can elevate a meal and add that exotic touch you didn’t know you needed!

Created by

Piper Andrews

Last updated on 2026-01-13T20:34:14.197Z

When I first tried Jamaican Coconut Rice at a friend's gathering, I was utterly mesmerized by the lush texture and sweetness. After some experimentation in my kitchen, I've honed this recipe to perfection, ensuring every grain is flavorful and fluffy. The trick lies in soaking the rice before cooking, allowing it to absorb the fragrant coconut milk deeply.

Every time I serve this dish, I notice how it brings smiles and compliments from my family and friends. Pairing it with spicy jerk chicken or a fresh mango salsa creates a delicious contrast that keeps everyone coming back for seconds. You won't regret giving this recipe a try!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy coconut flavor that transports you to the Caribbean
Quick and easy preparation, perfect for weekday meals
Versatile dish that pairs well with various entrees

      

The Role of Coconut Milk

Coconut milk is the star ingredient in this Jamaican Coconut Rice recipe, lending it a luxurious creaminess and a tropical flavor profile. When selecting coconut milk, aim for a full-fat variety for the richest taste. Light or diluted coconut milk can result in a less flavorful dish and a less satisfying texture. If you're in a pinch, substitute half of the coconut milk with almond milk for a lighter option, but remember, it will alter the flavor significantly.

Incorporating coconut milk also adds a hint of sweetness, which balances well with savory dishes. The sugar in the recipe amplifies this effect, creating a subtle sweetness that enhances the overall dish. Be cautious with the sugar; if you're serving it with a sweeter entrée, you may want to reduce the sugar to prevent overpowering the meal.

Perfecting Your Rice Cooking Technique

For perfectly fluffy rice, achieving the right balance of water and coconut milk is crucial. This recipe uses a 1:1 ratio of rice to liquid, which works beautifully with jasmine rice. Overcooking can lead to mushy rice, so keep an eye on the simmering process. Once the liquid is fully absorbed (you can slightly tilt the pot to check), it’s a sign that your rice is ready to be fluffed.

Allowing the rice to sit covered after cooking is an essential step. It gives the steam a chance to continue cooking the rice gently, enhancing the texture. I usually wait about 5 minutes, which allows for a slightly sticky but fluffy outcome. If your rice ends up sticky, try rinsing it less or altering the liquid ratio next time.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Jamaican Coconut Rice pairs exceptionally well with various Caribbean dishes, making it a versatile option for dinner. Consider serving it alongside spicy jerk chicken or fresh grilled fish for a delightful contrast of flavors. The creamy texture balances heat perfectly, creating a harmonious meal. Additionally, it’s a fantastic base for spicy curries, as it soaks up the sauce beautifully.

For a varied twist, you can introduce additional ingredients like lime zest or a handful of raisins during cooking for a fruity note. If you're looking to add more greens, stir in some cooked peas or sautéed bell peppers last minute. Each variation can create a new dining experience while keeping the essence of the coconut rice intact.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients to make this delightful Jamaican Coconut Rice:

Ingredients

1 cup jasmine rice
1 cup coconut milk
1 cup water
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon sugar
1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional)

Having these simple ingredients ready will guarantee a delicious outcome!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to prepare the Jamaican Coconut Rice:

Rinse the Rice

Start by rinsing the jasmine rice under cold water in a fine-mesh sieve until the water runs clear. This step removes excess starch, ensuring fluffy rice.

Combine Ingredients

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

Cook the Rice

Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 20 minutes or until the rice absorbs all the liquid.

Fluff and Serve

After cooking, remove the saucepan from the heat and let it sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes. Then, use a fork to fluff the rice and stir in the chopped green onions if desired.

Once you’ve followed these steps, you’ll have a delicious side dish that’s bursting with flavor!

Pro Tips

For an enhanced coconut flavor, toast the rice in a skillet for a few minutes before cooking it with the coconut milk.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Jamaican Coconut Rice can be prepared in advance, making it an excellent option for meal prep. Simply cook the rice, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. This makes it easy to reheat and pair with your favorite proteins throughout the week. Just be sure to add a splash of water or coconut milk when reheating to restore its creamy texture.

For longer-term storage, this coconut rice freezes well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving space for expansion. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave, ensuring to stir it occasionally for even heating. It's a quick and flavorful way to enjoy a taste of the Caribbean any time you crave it.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find that your rice is sticking together or becomes too mushy, it's likely a result of washing the rice insufficiently or an excess of liquid. Be sure to rinse your rice thoroughly until the water is clear, as this helps remove excess starch. Additionally, make a note of your heat levels—cooking on too high of a setting can make the water evaporate too quickly.

Another common issue is flavor imbalance. If your rice tastes bland, it may need more salt, or you might consider adding spices. Adding a pinch of cumin or a dash of cayenne can elevate the flavor profile further, while maintaining the integrity of the dish. Experimenting with spices can lead to a uniquely personalized version of this classic recipe.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of jasmine?

Yes, but it will require a longer cooking time and more liquid. Adjust accordingly.

→ Is this dish vegan-friendly?

Absolutely! All the ingredients are plant-based.

→ How can I store leftovers?

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

→ Can I freeze Jamaican Coconut Rice?

Yes, you can freeze it! Just make sure it’s cooled completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container.