The Best Coconut Rice (Printable)
Fragrant jasmine rice cooked in creamy coconut milk for a fluffy, subtly sweet side dish ready in 25 minutes.
# What You'll Need:
→ Rice
01 - 1 cup jasmine rice, rinsed until water runs clear
→ Liquids
02 - 1 cup full-fat unsweetened coconut milk
03 - 1 cup water
→ Seasonings
04 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
05 - 1 teaspoon sugar, optional for subtle sweetness
# How-To Steps:
01 - Place jasmine rice in a fine-mesh sieve and rinse under cold running water until the water runs clear, removing excess starch for fluffy results.
02 - Transfer rinsed rice to a medium saucepan. Add coconut milk, water, salt, and sugar if using. Stir gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
03 - Place saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil, watching carefully to prevent overflow.
04 - Reduce heat to low, cover with a tight-fitting lid, and simmer for 15 minutes until all liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
05 - Remove from heat and keep covered for 10 minutes, allowing residual steam to complete cooking and texture development.
06 - Uncover and fluff rice gently with a fork, separating grains without mashing. Serve immediately alongside curries, grilled meats, or tropical dishes.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- The coconut milk transforms ordinary rice into something creamy and luxurious without any heavy cream
- It's impossibly forgiving, which matters when you're juggling three other dishes on a weeknight
02 -
- The resting period is non-negotiable, which I learned the hard way when I served it too soon and ended up with gummy rice
- Coconut milk settles in the can, so give it a good shake before measuring
03 -
- A heavy-bottomed saucepan distributes heat more evenly and prevents hot spots that can scorch the coconut milk
- Resist the urge to check on the rice during those crucial 15 minutes of simmering