Jamaican Coconut Rice

Name: Jamaican Coconut Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup long-grain white rice; 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk; 1 cup water; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon sugar; 1 green onion, finely chopped

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love making Jamaican Coconut Rice because it brings a taste of the Caribbean right into my kitchen. The combination of creamy coconut milk and fluffy rice creates a comforting dish that's full of flavor. Whenever I prepare this recipe, I'm captivated by the aroma that fills my home. It’s a delicious side that pairs beautifully with a variety of meats and vegetables, offering an authentic touch to my meals. I can’t wait for you to try this dish and experience its charm for yourself!

Created by

Amber Walsh

Last updated on 2026-01-13T18:07:15.672Z

When I first tasted Jamaican Coconut Rice at a local restaurant, I was instantly hooked. The combination of sweet coconut milk and perfectly cooked rice creates a dish that's both rich and satisfying. I went home that night determined to recreate it, experimenting with different types of rice and coconut products until I found the perfect balance of flavor and texture.

One thing I discovered is that to get that authentic taste, using full-fat coconut milk makes all the difference. It gives the rice a luxurious creaminess that can't be matched. Make sure to let it simmer gently to absorb all the flavors—it’s a game changer!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Creamy coconut flavor that enhances every bite
A perfect complement to spicy and savory dishes
Simple ingredients and quick preparation make it a go-to side dish

      

The Role of Coconut Milk

Coconut milk is the star ingredient in Jamaican Coconut Rice, providing richness and a subtly sweet flavor that transforms the dish. Look for high-quality canned coconut milk to ensure a creamy texture and a vibrant taste. When adding the coconut milk, it's important to stir it well with the other ingredients to achieve a uniform flavor throughout the rice.

The fat content in coconut milk contributes to the overall mouthfeel of the dish, making it feel indulgent without being heavy. If you prefer a lighter version, you can mix half coconut milk with half vegetable broth for an equally tasty yet lower-fat alternative.

Perfecting Rice Cooking Techniques

To achieve fluffy rice, rinsing is crucial. By washing the rice until the water runs clear, you remove excess surface starch, which can cause clumping. This step creates discrete grains that absorb the coconut milk beautifully, enhancing the creamy consistency without becoming gluey.

Once the rice is simmering, avoid lifting the lid. Keeping the pot covered allows steam to circulate, cooking the rice evenly and retaining moisture. You'll know it's done when all the liquid is absorbed—look for tiny holes on the surface of the rice, indicating it's time to fluff.

Ingredients

For Jamaican Coconut Rice

1 cup long-grain white rice
1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
1 cup water
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon sugar
1 green onion, finely chopped

Make sure to rinse the rice thoroughly before cooking to remove excess starch.

Instructions

Preparation Steps

Rinse the Rice

Start by rinsing the long-grain white rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This process removes excess starch and helps prevent the rice from becoming overly sticky.

Combine Ingredients

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

Cook the Rice

Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 20 minutes.

Fluff and Serve

After 20 minutes, remove the pot from the heat and let it sit, still covered, for an additional 10 minutes. Then fluff the rice with a fork and stir in the chopped green onion before serving.

Enjoy this delightful dish as a side to your favorite Caribbean meals!

Pro Tips

For an extra burst of flavor, try adding a dash of lime juice or fresh herbs right before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Jamaican Coconut Rice pairs wonderfully with grilled meats like jerk chicken or fish, complementing their flavors with its creamy texture. You can also serve it alongside spicy curries or stir-fried vegetables, adding a delightful contrast to the heat of the main dishes.

Consider garnishing the rice with freshly chopped cilantro or a squeeze of lime for a bright finish. This adds freshness and balances the richness of the coconut milk, making each bite more vibrant and enjoyable.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This rice can be made ahead of time, making it perfect for meal prep. Once cooked, it can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheating on low heat with a splash of water or extra coconut milk helps regain its creamy texture, preventing it from drying out.

If you're looking to freeze, spread the cooled rice in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer it to a freezer-safe bag. Rice can be stored this way for up to three months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight and warm on the stove for an easy, quick side.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead?

Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time and liquid ratios since brown rice takes longer to cook and absorbs more water.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! All the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove with a little added water to avoid drying out.

→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?

This recipe is already vegetarian as it does not contain any meat products. Enjoy!