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 long-grain white rice; 1 can (400 ml) coconut milk; 1 cup water; 1 tsp salt; 1 tbsp sugar; 2 stalks green onions, chopped

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

Whenever I think of Caribbean cuisine, Jamaican Coconut Rice immediately comes to mind. The creamy texture paired with the subtle hints of coconut transport me straight to the tropics. I remember the first time I made this dish; the fragrant aroma filled my kitchen, creating an atmosphere that felt like a fiesta. The soothing balance of flavors makes it a perfect pairing for spicy dishes or grilled meats. Plus, it's so easy to prepare that I often whip it up for family gatherings or simply when I'm craving a taste of Jamaica.

Created by

Jasmine Porter

Last updated on 2026-01-06T00:01:16.190Z

There’s something magical about cooking with coconut milk. I recall experimenting with it the first time to create this Jamaican Coconut Rice. It was amazing to see how just a few simple ingredients could elevate a standard rice dish into something exotic and delicious.

I learned that to achieve the best flavor, using a good quality coconut milk is essential. The richness it imparts pairs beautifully with the rice, creating a creamy and aromatic dish that I can’t get enough of. This recipe has quickly become a staple in my kitchen!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy coconut flavor that perfectly complements any meal
Easy to make, yet feels like a gourmet dish
Great as a side or a base for curries and grilled meats

      

Mastering Coconut Rice

The key to achieving the perfect texture for Jamaican Coconut Rice lies in rinsing the rice. This step is crucial; by washing the rice under cold water until the water runs clear, you'll eliminate excess starch, which prevents the rice from clumping together. This results in a fluffy, separated grain that beautifully absorbs the rich coconut flavor. I recommend using a fine-mesh strainer for this process to effectively catch all the rice grains while ensuring thorough washing.

When combining the ingredients in your saucepan, it’s essential to maintain the right ratio of coconut milk to water. The creaminess of the coconut milk provides a luxurious flavor and texture, while the water helps balance it, so your rice isn’t overly rich. If you prefer a stronger coconut flavor, consider reducing the water by half a cup—this will lead to an even creamier result without compromising the overall cooking process.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Jamaican Coconut Rice is incredibly versatile and pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. For a complete meal, serve it alongside spicy jerk chicken or grilled fish. If you're leaning towards vegetarian options, it's great with a vibrant vegetable curry. The mildness of the rice balances out spicier flavors, allowing for an exciting culinary experience. Don’t hesitate to add a squeeze of fresh lime juice just before serving to brighten the dish!

This recipe can easily be scaled up for larger gatherings. Simply double the ingredients, and use a larger pot to prevent overflowing. When reheating any leftovers, add a splash of water or additional coconut milk and warm over low heat, stirring gently until the rice is heated through. Alternatively, consider preparing a coconut rice pudding with leftovers by adding some cinnamon, vanilla, and a touch of sugar for a delightful dessert.

Ingredients

For the Coconut Rice

2 cups long-grain white rice
1 can (400 ml) coconut milk
1 cup water
1 tsp salt
1 tbsp sugar
2 stalks green onions, chopped

Make sure to rinse the rice before cooking for optimal texture.

Instructions

Rinse the Rice

Rinse the long-grain rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch that can make the rice sticky.

Combine Ingredients

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

Bring to a Boil

Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the saucepan.

Cook the Rice

Simmer the rice on low heat for about 20 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.

Fluff and Serve

Remove from heat, fluff the rice with a fork, and stir in the chopped green onions. Serve warm and enjoy!

This dish pairs wonderfully with jerk chicken or grilled shrimp.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a bay leaf or a few pieces of fresh ginger to the cooking liquid.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your coconut rice ends up too sticky, you may have added too much water or not rinsed the rice thoroughly. To remedy this, fluff the rice and let it sit uncovered for a few minutes to allow excess moisture to escape. You can also spread the rice on a baking sheet to cool it down and help it dry out a bit more before serving.

Conversely, if the rice comes out too dry, it could mean it was cooked too long or the heat was too high. In such cases, gently stir in a bit of warm coconut milk or water in small increments, allowing it to absorb before adding more. This will help rehydrate the rice without compromising its texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

Should you find yourself without coconut milk, a good alternative is to use a mixture of almond milk and a few teaspoons of coconut extract. This won't give you the same creaminess, but it will evoke a similar flavor profile. Alternatively, for a lighter option, you can use low-fat coconut milk, which still provides a coconut essence while reducing the richness.

For those on a gluten-free diet, this recipe is naturally gluten-free; however, always check the labels of your ingredients, especially any flavorings or additions. If you're aiming for a lower-carb option, you could substitute the rice with cauliflower rice. Just skip the cooking step and sauté the cauliflower briefly in coconut milk and seasonings until tender.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, you can use brown rice, but you will need to adjust the cooking time and the amount of liquid.

→ Does this recipe freeze well?

Yes, coconut rice can be frozen. Just cool it completely before transferring it to an airtight container.

→ What can I serve with Jamaican Coconut Rice?

This rice pairs beautifully with jerk chicken, grilled fish, or any spicy Caribbean curries.

→ Can I make this vegan?

Absolutely! This recipe is vegan as it uses coconut milk and does not contain any animal products.