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Coconut Rice

A creamy, dreamy side dish that elevates any meal with its rich coconut flavor, perfect for pairing with a variety of mains.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: Asian, Tropical
Calories: 300
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 cup jasmine rice Provides a fragrant and slightly sticky base for the dish.
  • 1 tbsp coconut oil Adds a rich coconut flavor while helping to keep the rice moist.
  • 1 can full fat coconut milk Gives a creamy texture and enhances the depth of flavor.
  • 1 cup water or reduced sodium vegetable broth Helps balance the richness of the coconut milk for proper cooking consistency.
  • 1 tbsp granulated sugar Adds a subtle sweetness to enhance the coconut flavor.
  • 1 tsp salt Balances the overall flavors for a more rounded dish.
Garnishes
  • 1/4 cup toasted shredded coconut Adds a crunchy texture and additional coconut flavor as a garnish.
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro or parsley Provides a fresh herbaceous note that brightens the flavor profile.
  • 1/4 cup chopped peanuts or cashews Adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor to the finished dish.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Rinse the uncooked rice under cold running water for 1-2 minutes until the water runs mostly clear. Set aside.
  2. In a large high-sided saucepan, heat the coconut oil over medium-high heat until melted.
  3. Add the rinsed rice to the saucepan and stir to coat the rice evenly with the oil.
Cooking
  1. Stir in the coconut milk, water or broth, sugar, and salt, then bring to a gentle boil. Cover the pot with a lid.
  2. Reduce the heat to low and let simmer for 15 minutes until tender.
  3. After 15 minutes, turn off the heat and let the rice sit covered for another 10 minutes. Fluff with a fork afterward.
  4. If the rice is too soupy, turn the heat back on for a minute to allow excess liquid to steam off. For a looser texture, add a couple of tablespoons of coconut milk or water.
  5. Adjust sugar or salt to taste, garnish with optional toppings if desired, and serve.

Notes

For perfectly fluffy coconut rice, ensure you rinse the jasmine rice thoroughly to remove excess starch. Using a heavy-bottomed saucepan helps in achieving even cooking. Letting the rice rest after cooking is crucial for better texture. Don't hesitate to play with garnishes for added flavor and visual appeal.