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 jasmine rice; 1 cup coconut milk; 1 cup water; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon sugar; 1/2 cup shredded coconut (optional); Green onions for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love the tropical flavors of Jamaican Coconut Rice! Every time I make this dish, the creamy coconut milk combined with nutty jasmine rice brings me back to sunny beach vibes. The aroma fills my kitchen, making it impossible not to smile. This rice is perfect as a side dish or as a base for your favorite curries and grilled meats. It’s an easy and delightful recipe that I believe everyone should try at least once to experience the taste of the Caribbean right at home.

Created by

Aubrey Whitman

Last updated on 2026-01-13T21:34:19.701Z

Every single time I take a spoonful of Jamaican Coconut Rice, I'm reminded of my trip to the Caribbean where I fell in love with the local cuisine. The sheer creaminess of the rice, infused with coconut milk and a hint of sweetness, is simply addictive. I find that using fresh coconut diminishes the richness, so I usually stick to canned coconut milk. It’s a little tip that makes a world of difference!

When I prepare this dish for gatherings, the vibrant color and enticing aroma always draw compliments. I serve it alongside jerk chicken or grilled fish, and it never fails to impress. Make sure to let the rice sit for a few minutes after cooking; it helps absorb all those incredible flavors, resulting in an amazing dish!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        The rich creaminess of coconut milk enhances the flavor of the rice.
It's a versatile side that pairs well with many tropical dishes.
The aroma will transport you straight to a sunny beach!

      

Tips for Perfect Rice

Achieving perfectly cooked rice requires careful attention to the water ratio. With jasmine rice, it's essential to use equal parts rice and liquid – in this case, coconut milk and water. Be sure to measure your ingredients accurately. If you find your rice often ends up mushy, consider slightly reducing the liquid by a couple of tablespoons next time to create a firmer texture.

When rinsing the rice, it’s crucial to keep it under cold running water until the water runs clear. This process not only helps remove excess starch but also enhances the rice's ability to absorb the coconut flavors without becoming overly sticky. If you skip this step, your coconut rice may clump together instead of remaining fluffy and separate.

Ingredient Insights

Coconut milk is the star of this dish, providing a creamy texture and rich flavor. When selecting coconut milk, choose a full-fat variety for the best results. The fat content enhances the creaminess of the rice and ensures it doesn't feel watery. If you're looking for a lighter option, you can use light coconut milk, but the flavor may not be as pronounced.

Shredded coconut can add a delightful texture and extra coconut flavor. If you decide not to use it, make sure to replace it with some finely chopped nuts or seeds for a similar crunch. For a tropical twist, consider incorporating fresh pineapple or mango chunks to the cooked rice for a visually appealing presentation and added flavor.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Jamaican Coconut Rice

1 cup jasmine rice
1 cup coconut milk
1 cup water
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon sugar
1/2 cup shredded coconut (optional)
Green onions for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Cooking Steps

Rinse the Rice

In a fine mesh strainer, rinse the jasmine rice under cold running water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming sticky.

Combine Ingredients

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

Bring to a Boil

Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Once it starts boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the saucepan with a lid.

Simmer

Let the rice simmer for about 20 minutes or until all the liquid has been absorbed. Avoid lifting the lid too frequently to maintain steam.

Fluff and Garnish

Once cooked, remove the saucepan from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork, then stir in the shredded coconut if using. Garnish with chopped green onions, if desired.

Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, include a pinch of ginger or a few slices of lime in the cooking liquid. This can elevate the dish even further with fresh aromas.

Storage and Reheating

Once your Jamaican Coconut Rice is cooked, it can be stored easily. Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or coconut milk to prevent the rice from drying out. Heat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, covered, or in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

If you’d like to make this dish ahead of time, consider preparing it a day before your meal. You can cook it, let it cool, and store it as noted. Just make sure it’s reheated properly before serving to revive its creamy texture. Freezing this rice is also an option; store it in an airtight container for up to 1 month.

Serving Suggestions

Jamaican Coconut Rice pairs wonderfully with flavorful curries or grilled meats. The coconut flavor beautifully complements spicy dishes, creating a balance of heat and creaminess. Consider serving it alongside jerk chicken or a spicy vegetable curry for a complete Caribbean-inspired meal. This rice can also elevate stir-fries, adding depth to the dish.

For a fun twist, use the coconut rice as a base for a tropical rice bowl. Top it with grilled shrimp, fresh avocado, and a squeeze of lime for a refreshing meal. Additionally, feel free to experiment with spices; a pinch of cayenne or a sprinkle of cilantro can add a unique twist to the dish while maintaining the original Caribbean vibe.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of jasmine rice?

Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time as brown rice takes longer to cook—about 40-50 minutes.

→ Is there a substitute for coconut milk?

You can use a mixture of milk and cream, or any non-dairy milk, but the flavor will vary.

→ Can I make this rice ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it up to a day in advance and reheat it on the stove with a bit of water or coconut milk to keep it moist.

→ What dishes pair well with Jamaican Coconut Rice?

It's fantastic with grilled meats, seafood, or even tofu dishes. Try it with jerk chicken for a classic pairing!