Jamaican Coconut Rice

Name: Jamaican Coconut Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups jasmine rice; 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk; 1 cup water; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon sugar; 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional); Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Authentic Kitchen

I absolutely love making Jamaican Coconut Rice for its deliciously creamy texture and rich flavor. Each time I prepare it, I’m reminded of the vibrant Caribbean culture that inspired this dish. The combination of fluffy rice with coconut milk creates a unique taste that's both comforting and exotic. It's perfect as a side for any meal, bringing a touch of the tropics to my dinner table. Plus, it’s so simple to make, I often whip it up during the week or for special occasions.

Created by

Bethan Rowcroft

Last updated on 2026-01-13T04:57:35.316Z

When I first tasted Jamaican Coconut Rice, I was completely enchanted by its delicate sweetness and fragrant aroma. The secret is using full-fat coconut milk, which adds richness and depth. During one of our family gatherings, I paired this dish with grilled jerk chicken, and the flavors were simply harmonious. I love that the rice turns out perfectly tender and absorbs all those delightful coconut flavors.

Over time, I've experimented with spices, and a hint of nutmeg elevates this rice to new heights. This dish always disappears quickly at the table, proving that simple ingredients can create extraordinary results. I've found that serving it with fresh cilantro on top adds a beautiful touch and freshness to the dish. You’ll truly savor every bite!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Creamy coconut flavor that pairs perfectly with savory dishes
Quick and easy to prepare, even for weeknight dinners
Versatile side dish that complements many cuisines

The Role of Coconut Milk

Coconut milk is the star ingredient in this dish, giving Jamaican Coconut Rice its signature creamy consistency and tropical flavor. It's important to choose a high-quality coconut milk, preferably one that’s full-fat, as this will enhance the richness of the rice. Look for brands with minimal additives—a good coconut milk should primarily list coconut and water as its top ingredients. This choice will ensure your dish has an authentic taste that truly resonates with Caribbean influences.

When mixing coconut milk with water, keep in mind the fat content you desire. I often adjust the ratio depending on my preference for creaminess. If you're looking for a richer version, use less water or add an extra tablespoon of coconut milk. Conversely, if you prefer a lighter dish, add more water while balancing the rest of the ingredients. This flexibility allows you to customize the dish to suit your dinner plans.

Perfecting Rice Fluffiness

Rinsing the rice is a crucial step to achieving the ideal fluffiness. By removing excess starch, you prevent clumping and ensure each grain remains distinct after cooking. I usually rinse the rice until the water runs completely clear, which may take 2-3 washes. This step not only affects texture but also lightens the overall flavor of the dish, allowing the coconut milk to shine through.

Another tip for fluffier rice is to let it rest after cooking. Once you remove the pot from heat, let it sit covered for about 5 minutes before fluffing. This resting period allows residual steam to continue cooking the rice slightly and facilitates moisture redistribution, ensuring a perfect texture. Using a fork instead of a spoon to fluff helps maintain the integrity of each grain.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare this delicious Jamaican Coconut Rice:

Ingredients

2 cups jasmine rice
1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
1 cup water
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon sugar
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Make sure your ingredients are ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps for perfect Jamaican Coconut Rice:

Rinse the Rice

Start by rinsing the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch, preventing the rice from becoming too sticky.

Combine Ingredients

In a medium pot, combine the rinsed rice, coconut milk, water, salt, and sugar. If you’re using nutmeg, add it now.

Cook the Rice

Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 20 minutes or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid.

Fluff and Serve

Remove the pot from heat and let it sit covered for another 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with fresh cilantro if desired before serving.

Enjoy your flavorful Jamaican Coconut Rice as a delightful complement to any meal!

Pro Tips

For an added twist, try adding peas or bell peppers during the last few minutes of cooking for extra color and nutrition.

Make-Ahead Tips

Jamaican Coconut Rice is great for meal prep! You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or coconut milk to regain its creamy texture. When reheating, aim for medium heat to avoid scorching the rice, as high heat can dry it out.

For longer storage, consider freezing the rice. Allow it to cool completely before portioning it into freezer-safe bags. It can be stored for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and then reheat as described above, ensuring you achieve that delectable creamy consistency.

Serving Suggestions

This coconut rice pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes, enhancing both Caribbean fare and other cuisines alike. Try serving it alongside grilled fish, jerk chicken, or a hearty vegetable curry. The creamy rice acts as a perfect counterbalance to spicy and savory flavors, creating a delightful dining experience.

For a more colorful presentation, consider adding diced bell peppers or peas to the rice during the last 5 minutes of cooking. This not only adds a pop of color but also provides additional nutrients and textural contrast. Fresh cilantro as a garnish adds a hint of freshness and enhances the aesthetic, transforming simple rice into a standout dish.

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.

→ Can I make this dish vegan?

Absolutely! This recipe is already vegan-friendly due to the coconut milk and plant-based ingredients.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave before serving.

→ Can I add protein to this dish?

Sure! You can incorporate beans or even cooked chicken to make it a complete meal.