Jamaican Coconut Rice

Name: Jamaican Coconut Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup long-grain rice; 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk; 1 cup water; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon sugar; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I love making Jamaican Coconut Rice because it is both comforting and exotic. The creamy coconut milk combines wonderfully with the fluffy rice, creating a dish that perfectly complements spicy Caribbean dishes. Each time I prepare it, the aroma fills my kitchen, reminding me of my travels to Jamaica. This recipe is simple enough for a weeknight dinner but special enough to impress at gatherings. I appreciate how quick it is to whip up, making it a go-to side dish that pairs well with any meal.

Created by

Lillian Hayes

Last updated on 2026-01-13T21:16:11.315Z

During a family gathering, I decided to add Jamaican Coconut Rice to the menu. I was inspired by my favorite Caribbean flavors, and it turned out to be a hit! The rice became a standout dish, enhanced by the creamy coconut milk and a hint of sweetness that perfectly balanced the flavors of the grilled jerk chicken we served. The beauty of this recipe is its versatility; you can easily adjust the coconut flavor intensity with more or less milk.

While preparing it, I discovered that adding a pinch of salt not only enhances the overall flavor but also helps the rice to cook more evenly. I enjoy letting it simmer gently, allowing the rice to absorb the coconut milk fully. When served hot, the rice is fluffy and fragrant, making it an essential staple on my table.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy coconut flavor that transports you to the tropics
Fluffy texture that pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for any occasion

      

Understanding Coconut Rice

Coconut rice gets its unique flavor primarily from the use of coconut milk. This ingredient not only infuses the rice with a rich, tropical taste but also contributes to its creamy texture. Choosing a high-quality coconut milk can make a significant difference. Look for brands that contain only coconut and water without additional preservatives or additives for the best results. Full-fat coconut milk will yield an especially creamy outcome, while light versions will result in a lighter, less rich dish.

The type of rice you use is also crucial. Long-grain rice, such as basmati or jasmine, is ideal for this recipe because it cooks to be light and fluffy. Avoid short-grain varieties like sushi rice, which tend to become sticky and clump together. Rinsing the rice is an important step, as it removes surface starches; this prevents the rice from becoming gummy during cooking and rather helps achieve that delightful lightness.

Perfecting the Cooking Technique

When cooking the rice, it's essential to monitor the heat closely. After bringing the coconut milk mixture to a boil, you must reduce the heat to low immediately and cover it to prevent steam from escaping. This step ensures the rice cooks evenly and absorbs all the liquid. If your rice still seems undercooked after the indicated time, simply continue cooking it on low heat for a few more minutes; adding a little extra water if necessary can help if too much liquid has evaporated.

To fluff the rice, I recommend using a fork rather than a spoon, as this helps separate the grains without breaking them. Gently turning the rice with the fork will release any steam trapped within, allowing the moisture to escape and giving you an airy texture. If you're serving the rice later, keep it covered off the heat to retain its warmth without continuing to cook it.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make Jamaican Coconut Rice:

Ingredients

1 cup long-grain rice
1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
1 cup water
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon sugar
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Once you have gathered the ingredients, you're ready to start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare this delicious Jamaican Coconut Rice:

Rinse the Rice

Begin by rinsing the long-grain rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch, ensuring your rice is fluffy.

Combine Ingredients

In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, coconut milk, water, salt, and sugar. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.

Cook the Rice

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

Fluff and Serve

After 20 minutes, remove the saucepan from heat but keep it covered for an additional 5 minutes. Finally, fluff the rice with a fork and serve warm, optionally drizzling with vanilla extract.

Enjoy your delicious Jamaican Coconut Rice as a delightful side dish!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider adding chopped scallions or a pinch of nutmeg for a bit of warmth. You can also serve this rice with black beans or a tropical fruit salsa for a vibrant dish.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Jamaican Coconut Rice can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it on the stove with a splash of water to regain moisture or in the microwave with a damp paper towel covering it to keep it from drying out. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating until it's warmed through completely.

For longer-term storage, you can freeze the rice. Allow it to cool completely before transporting it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for about three months. When reheating from frozen, it's best to use the stove with a bit of water rather than the microwave to achieve the best texture.

Serving Suggestions

This Coconut Rice serves as an excellent base for various Caribbean dishes. I love pairing it with spicy jerk chicken or grilled shrimp for a delicious, balanced meal. The rice's creamy texture acts as a soothing counterpoint to spicy flavors, making every bite a delightful experience. You can also use it as a side for flavorful curries or stews.

Additionally, consider transforming leftovers into a breakfast dish by adding eggs and sautéed veggies for a coconut rice scramble. Top it with fresh herbs, spicy sauce, or avocado for an easy and satisfying meal that brings a taste of the tropics to your mornings.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you'll need to adjust the cooking time as brown rice typically takes longer to cook. Follow package instructions for best results.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftover rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of coconut milk to retain moisture.

→ Can I make this rice vegan?

Yes, this recipe is already vegan, using coconut milk as the primary ingredient instead of dairy.

→ What can I serve with Jamaican Coconut Rice?

This dish pairs well with grilled meats, seafood, or vegetable curries. It's also delicious alongside fresh salads and salsas.