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 jasmine rice; 1 cup coconut milk; 1 cup water; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon sugar; 1 bay leaf

Highlighted under: Cultural Favorites

I absolutely love Jamaican Coconut Rice because it brings a taste of the islands right into my kitchen. The creamy coconut milk combined with the subtle sweetness of the rice creates a delicious, fragrant dish that pairs perfectly with my favorite Caribbean meals. What I find particularly enjoyable is how simple it is to prepare. Just a few ingredients and minimal effort yield a result that feels and tastes truly special. Whether for a weekday dinner or a festive occasion, this dish is sure to impress everyone at the table.

Created by

India Rutherford

Last updated on 2026-01-13T05:01:35.545Z

When I first tried Jamaican Coconut Rice, I was surprised by how comforting and flavorful it was. The creamy texture of the coconut milk transforms regular rice into a delightful side dish that complements almost any protein. I’ve learned that letting the rice absorb all the coconut flavor really elevates the dish, so I make sure to give it ample time to simmer.

One tip that I've discovered is to use fresh coconut milk if possible. It adds an unparalleled depth of flavor that canned versions just can't replicate. This little tweak has made all the difference in achieving that authentic Caribbean taste!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A tropical twist that elevates any meal
Creamy consistency that balances savory dishes
Quick and easy preparation for busy weeknights

      

Understanding Coconut Rice

Coconut milk is the star ingredient in Jamaican Coconut Rice, providing a rich, creamy texture and a subtle sweetness that enhances the dish immensely. The fat content in coconut milk not only adds depth of flavor but also helps to achieve a luscious consistency that marries beautifully with the lightness of jasmine rice. For best results, choose full-fat coconut milk, as it will yield a more decadent dish. For those who prefer a lighter version, using a blend of coconut milk and broth can still offer that distinct flavor while reducing calories.

In this recipe, sugar plays a crucial role, balancing the savory elements and enhancing the overall taste. The sweetness from the sugar complements the natural flavors of the coconut milk and rice, making it ideal for pairing with spicy or robustly flavored dishes. If you're looking to adjust the sweetness, you can easily reduce the sugar to your liking or substitute it with a natural sweetener like honey or agave syrup, keeping in mind that it might slightly alter the flavor profile.

Cooking Techniques for Perfect Rice

Fluffing the rice after cooking is key to achieving that desirable light and airy texture. I recommend using a fork rather than a spoon for this task, as a fork gently separates the grains without mashing them. This step is vital, especially when making coconut rice, as it helps to incorporate any remaining coconut milk and prevents clumping. Allowing the rice to rest covered for a few minutes post-cooking further enhances this fluffed texture by letting the steam complete the cooking process evenly.

While the recipe calls for bay leaves to infuse a subtle aroma, you can enhance the flavor even further by incorporating spices such as cardamom or cloves. Adding just a pinch of ground spices when combining the other ingredients can elevate the dish's complexity without overwhelming the coconut's flavor. However, remember to adjust cooking time accordingly if you add hard spices; they may require slightly longer to release their aromatics.

Serving and Storing Coconut Rice

Jamaican Coconut Rice is incredibly versatile and can accompany a wide variety of dishes. It pairs exceptionally well with grilled meats, such as jerk chicken or fish, and even vegetarian curries. I often serve it alongside mango salsa or a lime wedge to add a refreshing contrast to its richness. If you're hosting a gathering, presenting the rice in a large bowl garnished with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can make it a stunning centerpiece on your table.

If you have leftovers, storing coconut rice is straightforward. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container—this helps prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to spoilage. When properly stored in the refrigerator, the rice will stay fresh for about 3 to 5 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or coconut milk to restore its creamy consistency, making it almost as delightful as the first day.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make your delicious Jamaican Coconut Rice:

Ingredients

1 cup jasmine rice
1 cup coconut milk
1 cup water
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon sugar
1 bay leaf

Once you have your ingredients ready, you're set to start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create your Jamaican Coconut Rice:

Rinse the Rice

Begin by rinsing the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and helps achieve a fluffy texture.

Combine Ingredients

In a pot, combine the rinsed rice, coconut milk, water, salt, sugar, and bay leaf. Stir well to mix all the ingredients.

Bring to a Simmer

Place the pot over medium heat and bring the mixture to a simmer. Once it starts bubbling, lower the heat to low and cover the pot.

Cook

Allow the rice to cook for 15-20 minutes, or until all the liquid is absorbed. Avoid lifting the lid too often, as this can interrupt the steaming process.

Fluff and Serve

Once cooked, remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving.

Enjoy your flavorful Jamaican Coconut Rice as a perfect accompaniment!

Pro Tips

For an added touch, consider mixing in some toasted coconut flakes or a sprinkle of fresh herbs before serving.

Make-Ahead Options

If you're planning a busy week, consider making your coconut rice in advance. It stores well and can even be frozen. Prepare the rice according to the instructions, then let it cool and portion it into freezer-safe containers. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy it, just thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as needed.

For those times when you're short on ingredients, you can experiment by substituting jasmine rice with other types, such as basmati or even brown rice for a nuttier flavor. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary, especially with brown rice, which typically requires additional water and a longer simmering period.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

One common issue is ending up with soggy rice; this often happens from using too much liquid or not allowing enough time for the rice to steam properly. Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately and avoid lifting the lid too frequently. If needed, you can dry out overly wet rice by cooking it uncovered on low heat for a short while.

Alternatively, if the rice is too dry or tough, it might need a bit more liquid. Try adding a few tablespoons of water or coconut milk and simmering gently, covered, for a few more minutes. Keeping an eye on the texture while cooking ensures you achieve that perfect, fluffy result.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of jasmine rice?

Yes, but brown rice will require a longer cooking time and additional water.

→ Can I make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! The recipe is naturally vegan as it uses coconut milk and no animal products.

→ What dishes pair well with Jamaican Coconut Rice?

It pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, fish tacos, or curry dishes for a tropical flavor boost.

→ Can I store leftovers and how long do they last?

Yes, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.