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; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon sugar; 1 bay leaf (optional); Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love making Jamaican Coconut Rice because it transports me to a tropical paradise with every bite. The creamy coconut milk combined with the fragrant jasmine rice creates a dish that complements any meal beautifully. Whether paired with spicy jerk chicken or savory fish, this rice is a delight to the senses. It’s easy to make, and I often find myself preparing it for family gatherings or simply as a side for dinner. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a staple in your kitchen!

Created by

Heidi Lawson

Last updated on 2026-01-06T00:49:19.586Z

When I first tasted Jamaican Coconut Rice, I was taken aback by how much flavor could come from such simple ingredients. The trick is using high-quality coconut milk and letting the rice absorb it completely for that perfect creamy texture. It took a few tries to get the water-to-rice ratio just right, but now I can guarantee a delicious outcome every time!

One detail that I love is adding a pinch of salt to enhance the sweetness of the coconut. I also sometimes throw in a bay leaf or a few sprigs of thyme during cooking for an extra layer of flavor. It’s amazing how little tweaks can elevate a dish so significantly!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy texture that perfectly coats each grain of rice
The tropical aroma of coconut fills your kitchen
Complements a variety of mains, giving a unique twist to your meal

      

Mastering the Rice Cooking Technique

The key to achieving the perfect texture in Jamaican Coconut Rice lies in the cooking technique. After rinsing the jasmine rice, ensure that you combine it with the coconut milk and water in the right ratio. Using one cup of water for every cup of rice, combined with the rich coconut milk, guarantees that the rice absorbs just the right amount of moisture. When boiling, keep a close eye; the moment bubbles rise vigorously, reduce the heat to a gentle simmer to prevent burning.

Another essential tip is to avoid lifting the lid during the simmering process. This traps steam inside, which is vital for evenly cooking the rice. If you must check the rice, use a glass lid to monitor without losing too much steam. After cooking, let the rice sit covered for an additional five minutes. This resting period allows residual steam to finish cooking the rice and makes it fluffier when you finally fluff it up with a fork.

Ingredient Insights and Substitutions

The use of jasmine rice not only adds a delicate fragrance to the dish but also helps achieve a tender texture that pairs perfectly with coconut milk. If jasmine rice is unavailable, you can substitute it with basmati rice; however, this may alter the dish's flavor slightly. When using basmati, a quick soak in water for 20 minutes before cooking can enhance its fluffy texture.

If you're looking to reduce the richness of the dish, experimenting with light coconut milk or even a mix of coconut milk and vegetable broth can lighten the flavor while still imparting some beautiful coconut notes. For individuals with food sensitivities, almond or soy milk can be used, though they will change the flavor profile and final texture considerably.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start cooking:

Ingredients

1 cup jasmine rice
1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
1 cup water
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon sugar
1 bay leaf (optional)
Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Make sure you have everything ready to go for a seamless cooking experience!

Instructions

Follow these steps for perfectly cooked Jamaican Coconut Rice:

Rinse the Rice

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

Combine Ingredients

In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, coconut milk, water, salt, and sugar. If you're using a bay leaf, add it to the mixture.

Bring to a Boil

Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Stir gently to mix the ingredients and prevent sticking.

Simmer the Rice

Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 18 to 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 before fluffing with a fork. Garnish with fresh cilantro, if desired, and serve warm.

Enjoy the deliciousness of Jamaican Coconut Rice!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider cooking the rice with a splash of lime juice or adding peas during the last few minutes of cooking. This can introduce a nice pop of color and extra nutrition!

Serving Suggestions

Jamaican Coconut Rice is incredibly versatile, and it pairs well with a variety of proteins. I love serving it alongside spicy jerk chicken, where the creaminess of the rice balances the heat perfectly. It also works beautifully with grilled fish or shrimp, allowing the flavors of the coconut to complement the seafood's natural sweetness. For a vegetarian option, consider pairing it with a medley of sautéed vegetables seasoned with soy sauce and ginger.

To elevate this dish further, top the rice with a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes or cashews for an extra crunch. Fresh lime wedges on the side can add a zesty kick, enhancing the overall tropical theme of your meal. You may also create a bowl by incorporating black beans, avocado, and pineapple salsa atop your rice for a lovely mix of textures and flavors.

Make-Ahead Tips and Storage

One of the best features of Jamaican Coconut Rice is that it can be made ahead of time. Cook the rice according to the recipe, then allow it to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This rice can last for up to 4 days when properly stored. Simply reheat it in a microwave with a splash of water or coconut milk to restore its moisture and flavor before serving again.

If you're planning to freeze the rice, portion it into individual servings for convenience. Freeze in airtight bags, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. When ready to eat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator, or reheating directly from frozen on the stovetop with a bit of added liquid.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of jasmine rice?

Yes, but keep in mind that brown rice will require a longer cooking time and more liquid.

→ How can I store leftover Jamaican Coconut Rice?

Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little water if it appears dry.

→ Is it necessary to rinse the rice?

Yes, rinsing the rice helps to remove excess starch, which can make the rice sticky. It’s an important step for achieving fluffy grains.

→ Can I make this dish vegan?

Absolutely! Just use plant-based coconut milk, and you’re good to go!