Jamaican Coconut Rice

Name: Jamaican Coconut Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup long-grain rice; 1 cup coconut milk; 1 cup water; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon sugar (optional); 1/4 cup shredded coconut (optional, for garnish)

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love making Jamaican Coconut Rice, as it brings a taste of the Caribbean right to my kitchen. The creamy coconut milk combined with the fluffy rice creates an irresistible texture that's comforting and satisfying. It’s a perfect side dish for any meal, especially paired with flavorful dishes like jerk chicken or grilled fish. Each bite is a delightful blend of sweet and savory, making it a family favorite at my dinner table. This dish is also surprisingly easy to prepare, taking only about 30 minutes from start to finish.

Created by

Sabrina Holt

Last updated on 2026-01-13T20:13:19.373Z

Making Jamaican Coconut Rice has become one of my go-to side dishes because of its unique flavor profile. The first time I cooked it, I was amazed by how the coconut milk elevated the simple rice into something special. The subtle sweetness combined with the richness created a lovely balance that complemented my savory meals perfectly.

One tip I learned while perfecting this recipe is to let the rice sit covered after cooking. This allows the coconut flavors to permeate the rice, resulting in a more intense flavor. Trust me, it’s a game changer when it comes to making this dish truly outstanding!

        Why You Will Love Jamaican Coconut Rice
        Creamy coconut flavor that adds richness to any meal
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights
Pairs beautifully with grilled meats or spicy dishes

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The foundation of Jamaican Coconut Rice lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Long-grain rice is ideal for this dish, as it cooks up light and fluffy, absorbing the creamy coconut milk beautifully. The starch in the rice plays a crucial role, acting as a natural thickener that enhances the rice's texture. Be sure to choose high-quality coconut milk for the best flavor; avoid those with additives that can alter its natural sweetness. Your choice of salt, whether fine or kosher, will influence the overall taste, so measure carefully.

Sugar is an optional addition, but it can enhance the coconut flavor and balance the savory elements of your dish, especially when served alongside spicier entrees. If you're looking for a healthful twist, consider reducing the sugar or using natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup, which can add depth to the flavor profile without the refined sugar's sharpness. Additionally, shredded coconut, while optional for garnish, adds a pleasing texture and a burst of extra coconut flavor.

Cooking Tips for Perfect Rice

A key technique in cooking rice is to rinse it thoroughly before cooking. This step is vital as it removes excess starch that can cause the grains to clump together. Rinse until the water runs clear, which may take a few extra minutes but pays off with a lighter texture. Once you've added the coconut milk and water, keep an eye on the pot during the initial boil. Adjust the heat so that it boils gently instead of vigorously, which can lead to uneven cooking.

Allowing the rice to sit covered after cooking is essential for achieving the perfect texture. This step lets the residual steam finish off the cooking process and helps the flavors meld beautifully. If you're in a hurry, you might be tempted to skip this, but patience pays off—fluffing the rice afterward will reveal perfectly separated grains ready to soak up the sauce of whatever you choose to serve it with.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 cup long-grain rice
1 cup coconut milk
1 cup water
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
1/4 cup shredded coconut (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Rinse the Rice

Begin by rinsing the rice under cold water in a fine-mesh strainer until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming gummy.

Combine Ingredients

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

Cook the Rice

Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the saucepan. Let it simmer for 18-20 minutes until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.

Let it Sit

Once cooked, remove the saucepan from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld.

Fluff and Serve

After resting, fluff the rice with a fork. Garnish with shredded coconut if desired before serving. Enjoy your delicious Jamaican Coconut Rice!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, you can add a bay leaf or a sprig of thyme to the cooking liquid. If you want a spicier kick, a dash of cayenne pepper can be mixed in too.

Make-Ahead and Storage

Jamaican Coconut Rice is a fantastic make-ahead dish, storing well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To ensure freshness, cool the rice completely before transferring it to an airtight container. When you're ready to reheat, simply add a splash of coconut milk or water to moisten, and heat gently in a microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Avoid high heat to prevent the rice from drying out.

If you're considering freezing the rice, it can be stored in the freezer for up to two months. Pack it in portions to make defrosting easier. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating, and you'll retain that delightful coconut flavor and creamy texture.

Serving Suggestions

Jamaican Coconut Rice pairs exceptionally well with many Caribbean-inspired dishes. Serve it alongside spicy jerk chicken, where the cooling coconut flavor beautifully balances the heat. It's also a great companion for grilled seafood, such as shrimp or fish tacos, providing a creamy contrast to the smoky char of the grill. Consider adding a side of black beans or a fresh mango salsa for a complete meal experience.

For a fun twist, try using coconut rice as a stuffing. It works wonderfully in bell peppers or wraps, adding a unique flavor to your favorite fillings. This not only enhances the overall dish but also presents an appealing visual component, making your meal memorable.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but brown rice will require more liquid and a longer cooking time. Adjust the water to 1 1/4 cups and cook for about 40-50 minutes.

→ Is it possible to make this dish vegan?

Absolutely! This recipe is already vegan if you don't add any non-vegan garnishes. The coconut milk is a perfect base.

→ Can leftovers be reheated?

Yes, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat in the microwave, adding a splash of water to keep it moist.

→ What dishes pair well with Jamaican Coconut Rice?

It pairs wonderfully with jerk chicken, fish tacos, or any spicy curry, adding a nice balance to the meal.