Jamaican Coconut Rice

Name: Jamaican Coconut Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup long-grain white rice; 1 cup coconut milk; 1 cup water; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon sugar (optional); 1 bay leaf (optional)

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love making Jamaican Coconut Rice because it's a delightful dish that perfectly balances the creamy richness of coconut milk with fluffy rice. The tropical flavors transport me to a sunny beach, making every bite a mini-vacation. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also elevates any meal from ordinary to extraordinary. Whether I'm serving it alongside jerk chicken or grilled fish, this rice always impresses my family and friends. Trust me, once you try it, you'll want to add it to your weekly rotation!

Created by

Jasmine Porter

Last updated on 2026-01-13T20:28:19.440Z

When I first tried Jamaican Coconut Rice, I was captivated by the blend of flavors and textures that created a comforting, hearty side dish. I experimented with different ratios of coconut milk to water and found that a 1:1 ratio achieves the perfect creaminess without being overly rich. The addition of a sprinkle of salt enhances the overall flavor, making it a versatile accompaniment for various main dishes.

As I continued to refine my recipe, I realized that allowing the rice to steam for a few extra minutes after cooking really helps to achieve that light, fluffy texture I adore. This small tip has transformed my coconut rice from good to absolutely mouthwatering!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy coconut flavor that adds a tropical twist to any meal
Quick and simple preparation that anyone can master
Versatile enough to pair with a wide range of dishes

      

Selecting the Right Rice

Using long-grain white rice is key for achieving the perfect fluffy texture in Jamaican Coconut Rice. It has a lower starch content compared to short-grain varieties, preventing the rice from becoming gummy. If you're looking for a healthier option, you can substitute with brown rice; however, note that you will need to adjust the water ratio and cooking time. Brown rice typically requires about 1.5 cups of water and 30-40 minutes of simmering time to ensure proper tenderness.

Another great option is jasmine rice. Its subtle floral aroma complements the coconut flavor wonderfully, making it an exquisite alternative. When using jasmine rice, you still want to follow the same 1:1 ratio of rice to coconut milk and water. Keep an eye on the cooking time, as jasmine rice usually cooks a bit faster; check for doneness around the 15-minute mark to avoid overcooking.

Perfecting the Cooking Technique

When combining your ingredients, start with a cold mixture in the saucepan. This allows the rice to absorb flavors evenly as it cooks. Make sure to stir it occasionally when bringing to a boil; this prevents the rice from sticking to the bottom of the pot, which could lead to burning. Once it reaches a gentle boil, changing to lower heat is crucial as this will let the rice steam properly and absorb liquid without boiling over.

A well-timed resting period is essential after cooking. Allowing the rice to sit covered for about 10 minutes off the heat lets it finish cooking through residual steam, enhancing the fluffiness. Use a fork to fluff rather than a spoon—this technique prevents squashing the grains. If you prefer a slightly toasted flavor, you can sauté the rinsed rice in a bit of oil or butter for about 3 minutes before adding the other liquids, but be careful not to let it brown too much.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make Jamaican Coconut Rice:

Ingredients

1 cup long-grain white rice
1 cup coconut milk
1 cup water
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
1 bay leaf (optional)

Make sure all ingredients are measured out before starting!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Jamaican Coconut Rice:

Rinse the Rice

Begin by rinsing the long-grain white rice in cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and ensures that the rice cooks up fluffy.

Combine Ingredients

In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, coconut milk, water, salt, and sugar if using. Add the bay leaf for an extra depth of flavor.

Bring to a Boil

Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Simmer

Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let it simmer for about 20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed.

Fluff and Serve

Remove the saucepan from heat and let it sit, covered, for an additional 10 minutes. Fluff the rice gently with a fork before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Jamaican Coconut Rice as a side dish!

Pro Tips

For an even more authentic flavor, feel free to toss in some sliced scallions or a pinch of allspice during cooking.

Serving Suggestions

Jamaican Coconut Rice pairs beautifully with a variety of main dishes, especially those featuring bold flavors like jerk chicken or grilled fish. To elevate your presentation, consider garnishing with fresh chopped herbs such as cilantro or parsley right before serving. A squeeze of lime or lemon on top adds a refreshing zing that harmonizes with the rice's creaminess.

For a comprehensive meal, serve this coconut rice alongside sautéed vegetables or a fresh tropical salad. The creamy texture of the rice balances well with the crunch of the vegetables, making for a satisfying and colorful plate. If you want to impress, consider presenting it in a coconut shell for a fun tropical flair!

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

One of the best aspects of Jamaican Coconut Rice is how well it stores. You can make it in advance and refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to 5 days. If you plan to freeze it, allow the rice to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe bags, where it can last up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or coconut milk to restore moisture.

If you notice the rice dried out while storing, don't worry! Just add a bit more coconut milk or water while reheating. This will help revive its creamy texture. For variations, consider adding cooked black beans or peas into the rice during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrients and a delightful twist on the traditional recipe.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but keep in mind that brown rice will take longer to cook, approximately 40-45 minutes.

→ Is it necessary to rinse the rice?

Rinsing the rice is important as it removes excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming gummy.

→ Can I make this dish vegan?

Absolutely! This recipe is naturally vegan since it uses coconut milk and does not include any animal products.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftover Jamaican Coconut Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave with a splash of water to regain moisture.