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 can (14 oz) full-fat coconut milk; 1 cup water; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon sugar; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

When I first tried Jamaican Coconut Rice, I was blown away by the tropical flavor and creamy texture that seemed to transport me straight to a warm beach. I never expected such a simple recipe could deliver such a rich taste, making it perfect as a side for any dish. Each bite is infused with the essence of coconut and a hint of sweetness, which balances beautifully with savory meals. This recipe holds a special place in our family gatherings, and I can't wait to share it with you!

Created by

Rosalie Mitchell

Last updated on 2026-01-12T02:22:12.203Z

My first experience with Jamaican Coconut Rice was during a vibrant summer barbecue, where it stole the spotlight among the delicious dishes. I learned that the secret to achieving that perfect creamy consistency lies in using full-fat coconut milk and cooking it slowly. This method enhances the flavors and transforms the rice into a delightful side dish.

After many trials, I found that rinsing the rice before cooking not only removes excess starch but also results in a light and fluffy texture. the addition of fresh herbs like cilantro elevates the dish, making it a fantastic accompaniment to spicy jerk chicken or grilled fish!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A delightful combination of creamy coconut and fluffy rice
Perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors
Easy to prepare with just a few simple ingredients

      

Unlocking Flavor with Coconut

The key ingredient in this Jamaican Coconut Rice is, undoubtedly, the coconut milk. When choosing coconut milk, opt for a full-fat variety for the richest flavor and creaminess. This will not only enhance the rice's texture but will also provide a subtle sweetness that beautifully complements savory dishes. If you're looking for a lighter alternative, light coconut milk can be used, but it may result in a less creamy rice.

It's also important to consider how your rice is prepared. Using long-grain white rice is recommended because it allows each grain to stay separate and fluffy, providing the perfect base for the coconut cream. Avoid using short-grain rice, as it tends to clump together and can make the dish overly sticky.

Tips for Perfect Cooking

When cooking the rice, make sure to monitor the heat closely. Start by bringing the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat before reducing the temperature to low. A common mistake is to leave the heat too high, which can lead to burning on the bottom of the pot. It’s essential to cover the saucepan tightly to trap steam and ensure even cooking; a glass lid is ideal for checking without lifting the cover.

After the initial cooking time of 20 minutes, let the rice rest for an additional 5 minutes, still covered. This step is crucial as it allows the rice to finish cooking through residual steam, yielding that perfectly fluffy texture. If you find your rice is too dry after the cooking period, a splash of water can help rehydrate it as you fluff it with a fork.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your Jamaican Coconut Rice:

Ingredients

1 cup long-grain white rice
1 can (14 oz) full-fat coconut milk
1 cup water
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon sugar
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)

Make sure to have all the ingredients measured out for a smooth cooking process!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create the perfect Jamaican Coconut Rice:

Rinse the Rice

Begin by rinsing the long-grain rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps to remove excess starch and ensures your rice will cook up fluffy.

Combine Ingredients

In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, coconut milk, water, salt, sugar, and black pepper. Stir gently to combine all ingredients.

Cook the Rice

Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 20 minutes or until the rice has absorbed all the liquid.

Fluff and Serve

Remove the saucepan from heat and let it sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork, stir in chopped cilantro if desired, and serve warm.

This dish pairs wonderfully with spicy grilled meats or fresh seafood.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider incorporating a dash of lime juice or zest when serving. You can also top the rice with toasted coconut flakes for a delightful crunch.

Storage and Reheating

Jamaican Coconut Rice can be made ahead of time, which is great for meal prep. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a dash of water to the rice to prevent it from drying out in the microwave or on the stovetop. Heat it gently over low heat, covering it with a lid to retain moisture.

For longer storage, you can freeze the rice. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe bags or containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat from frozen, place the rice in a saucepan with a splash of coconut milk or water, and gently warm it through over low heat, stirring frequently to ensure even heating.

Serving Suggestions

This Jamaican Coconut Rice pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. Try serving it alongside jerk chicken or grilled fish for a tropical feast. The creamy rice complements spicy or heavily seasoned dishes, balancing the heat with its sweetness. For a complete meal, consider adding a fresh mango salsa on top to enhance the flavor profile.

If you're looking to add extra nutrition, consider folding in some sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or peas after cooking. Chopped nuts, such as cashews or almonds, can also add a delightful crunch. For a vegetarian option, serve it with black beans and avocado for a nutritious, satisfying meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead?

Yes, but you will need to increase the cooking time and use more liquid to ensure the rice cooks properly.

→ Is it possible to make this dish vegan?

Absolutely! This recipe is already vegan-friendly, given that it uses coconut milk instead of dairy.

→ Can I prepare this rice in advance?

Yes, you can make it ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ What can I serve with Jamaican Coconut Rice?

It's delicious with jerk chicken, grilled shrimp, or as a side to any Caribbean-inspired dish!