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 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk; 1 cup water; 1 tsp salt; 1 tbsp sugar; 1/2 cup chopped green onions; 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love making Jamaican Coconut Rice because it adds a tropical flair to any meal. The creamy coconut flavor combined with the light sweetness creates a delightful dish that pairs perfectly with spicy grilled meats or fresh seafood. Whenever I prepare it, the aroma fills my kitchen, and it instantly transports me to the Caribbean. This rice is not just a side dish; it’s a celebration of flavors and cultures that brings friends and family together around the table. Try it once, and you’ll find yourself craving it again and again!

Created by

Olivia Hayes

Last updated on 2026-01-13T18:19:13.225Z

When I first tasted Jamaican Coconut Rice, I was amazed by how well the coconut milk complemented the fluffy grains. The trick is to allow the rice to absorb all that creamy goodness while cooking, which gives it an incredible texture and flavor. A sprinkle of fresh herbs at the end adds a vibrant touch.

One of my favorite methods is to use jasmine rice for its fragrant aroma, which enhances the overall experience. I often serve it with jerk chicken, letting the spices balance the sweetness of the coconut. It’s become a staple at my gatherings!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Creamy and fragrant coconut flavor that elevates any meal
Quick and easy to make, perfect for any weeknight dinner
Versatile side that complements a variety of dishes

      

The Role of Coconut Milk

Coconut milk is the star ingredient in this Jamaican Coconut Rice, providing a rich and creamy texture that contrasts beautifully with the fluffy rice. When choosing coconut milk, opt for a full-fat variety for the best flavor and creaminess. The richness of the coconut milk enhances the overall dish, making it a perfect companion to spicier entrees. Be sure to shake the can well before opening to combine the cream and water, ensuring a uniformly rich consistency in your dish.

In addition to adding flavor, coconut milk contributes to a slight sweetness that balances savory and spicy dishes. This is especially helpful when serving alongside grilled meats that may have a spicy kick. Remember, the final taste can vary based on the brand of coconut milk you choose, so don’t hesitate to try a few different ones to find your preferred flavor.

Perfecting Your Rice Cooking Technique

For perfectly cooked jasmine rice, attention to rinsing is crucial. Rinse the rice until the water runs clear to eliminate excess starch, which can lead to clumping. This simple step not only improves the texture of the rice but also allows it to absorb the coconut milk flavor more effectively. After rinsing, let the rice drain for a minute to remove any excess water before combining with the other ingredients.

When it comes to cooking, ensure your saucepan has a tight-fitting lid to trap steam, which is essential for even cooking. If you notice that the rice is sticking to the bottom of the pan, it might be due to cooking at too high a heat initially or not enough liquid. If this happens, don’t worry; simply add a splash of water, cover, and allow it to steam for a few additional minutes.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This Jamaican Coconut Rice works well as a standalone dish or as a side. To enhance its tropical profile, you can mix in some diced mango or pineapple right before serving. The sweetness of the fruit complements the coconut flavors beautifully and adds a vibrant color to the dish. Alternatively, for those who prefer a heartier meal, consider adding black beans for protein and a boost of fiber.

For make-ahead convenience, you can prepare the rice a day in advance and store it in the fridge. To reheat, add a splash of coconut milk or water to prevent it from drying out and microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. This rice also freezes well; just portion it into airtight containers and freeze for up to three months. Reheat directly from frozen, adding a little liquid to help restore its creaminess.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create a delicious Jamaican Coconut Rice:

Ingredients

1 cup jasmine rice
1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
1 cup water
1 tsp salt
1 tbsp sugar
1/2 cup chopped green onions
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

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

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your Jamaican Coconut Rice:

Rinse the Rice

Rinse the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming too sticky.

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.

Fluff and Serve

After 20 minutes, remove the saucepan from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes. Then, uncover and fluff the rice with a fork. Stir in the green onions and cilantro before serving.

Serve the rice warm as a delightful side to your favorite dishes.

Pro Tips

For an extra richness, you can add a tablespoon of butter when you fluff the rice. Additionally, feel free to experiment with other herbs like parsley or mint for a different flavor profile.

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers after enjoying this flavorful Jamaican Coconut Rice, storing them properly will help maintain their texture and taste. Allow the rice to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days. Be aware that the rice may firm up a bit in the refrigerator; a simple splash of coconut milk or water when reheating will revive its creaminess.

For longer storage, consider freezing the rice. Freeze in portion-sized containers and label them with the date. This rice should retain its quality for about three months in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat from frozen or thaw overnight in the fridge for a quick meal.

Scalability of the Recipe

This Jamaican Coconut Rice recipe can easily be scaled up or down, depending on your needs. To double the recipe, simply double all ingredients, ensuring that your saucepan is large enough to accommodate the increased volume. Keep an eye on the cooking time; while it shouldn’t change significantly, larger quantities may require a minute or two extra to achieve the same fluffy texture.

If preparing for a smaller gathering, you can halve the recipe by reducing the rice to half a cup and adjusting the rest of the ingredients accordingly. This flexibility makes it easy to serve this delightful side for any number of guests, from intimate family dinners to larger festive gatherings.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of jasmine rice?

Yes, but note that brown rice will take longer to cook and may require additional water.

→ What dishes can I serve with Jamaican Coconut Rice?

It pairs wonderfully with jerk chicken, grilled fish, or vegetable stir-fries.

→ 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 to cool it completely before placing it in freezer-safe containers.