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Coconut Rice Recipe

This easy coconut rice recipe is fluffy and full of coconut flavor. Learn how to cook coconut rice on the stove or in a rice cooker—perfect every time.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American, Asian
Servings 6 Servings
Calories 260 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • For the Rice Base
  • 1½ cups long grain white rice
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 cup coconut milk water see note below
  • For Coconut Flavor
  • 1 cup full fat coconut milk
  • 1 tsp sugar optional
  • ¾ tsp salt
  • Optional Garnish
  • Fresh cilantro or toasted coconut flakes

Instructions
 

  • Rinse the Rice
  • Measure your rice using proper measuring cups. Place it in a fine-mesh sieve and rinse under cold water.
  • Swirl the rice with your hand until the water runs mostly clear. This removes excess starch, which helps keep the rice fluffy instead of gummy.
  • Combine Liquids
  • In a medium saucepan, add:
  • Rinsed rice
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 cup coconut milk water (or coconut milk + water combo)
  • Salt and sugar
  • Stir gently to combine.
  • Bring to a Simmer
  • Place the pan over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer—not a rolling boil.
  • The smell at this stage is incredible. Warm coconut, slightly sweet—it’s your first hint that something good is happening.
  • Cover and Cook
  • Reduce heat to low. Cover tightly and cook for 15–18 minutes.
  • Resist the urge to lift the lid. Steam is doing the work here.
  • Rest and Fluff
  • Remove from heat and let the rice sit, covered, for 10 minutes.
  • Then fluff gently with a fork. The grains should be tender, separate, and glossy.
  • I always sneak a bite here. Quality control, right?
  • Rice Cooker Method
  • To cook coconut rice in a rice cooker:
  • Rinse the rice
  • Add rice, coconut milk, water, salt, and sugar
  • Cook on the “white rice” setting
  • Let rest 5–10 minutes before fluffing
  • This method is nearly foolproof.

Notes

  • Rinsing the rice is essential to remove excess starch and keep the rice fluffy.
  • Using a mix of coconut milk and water prevents the rice from becoming too rich or heavy.
  • Full fat coconut milk provides the best coconut flavor and texture.
  • Letting the rice rest after cooking helps finish steaming and improves texture.
  • Coconut rice reheats best with a splash of water and gentle heat.
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