The Best Coconut Rice (Printable)
Fragrant jasmine rice simmered in coconut milk for fluffy, subtly sweet results.
# What You'll Need:
→ Rice
01 - 1 cup jasmine rice, rinsed until water runs clear
→ Liquids
02 - 1 cup full-fat unsweetened coconut milk
03 - 1 cup water
→ Seasonings
04 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
05 - 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
# How-To Steps:
01 - Place jasmine rice in a fine-mesh sieve and rinse thoroughly under cold running water until the water runs completely clear, removing excess starch for fluffy texture.
02 - In a medium saucepan, add the rinsed rice, coconut milk, water, salt, and sugar if using. Stir gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
03 - Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil, watching carefully to prevent boiling over.
04 - Reduce heat to low, cover with a tight-fitting lid, and simmer for 15 minutes until all liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
05 - Remove from heat and let stand, covered, for 10 minutes to allow residual steam to complete the cooking process.
06 - Remove the lid and gently fluff the rice with a fork, separating grains without mashing. Serve warm alongside your favorite main dish.
# Expert Tips:
01 -
- The coconut milk transforms plain rice into something luxurious that still comes together in under 30 minutes
- It balances perfectly with spicy curries, grilled meats, or works beautifully on its own as a comforting side
02 -
- Resist the urge to check on the rice while it simmers, every time you lift that lid you lose the steam that makes it fluffy
- The resting period is non-negotiable, jumping straight to fluffing will leave you with sticky, clumpy rice
03 -
- Canned coconut milk separates, so give it a good shake or whisk before measuring
- If your rice still feels crunchy after the resting period, sprinkle in a tablespoon of water and cook 5 minutes more