Looking for an easy and delicious side dish to serve with your favorite Asian-inspired meals? Look no further than this recipe for coconut rice!
Made with fragrant Jasmine rice, creamy coconut milk, and a few flavorful aromatics like onion, garlic, and cilantro, this recipe perfectly complements stir-fries, curries, and more.
With just a few simple steps, you can make a rich and aromatic rice dish that will impress your family.
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What is Coconut Rice?
Coconut rice is a popular dish in many parts of the world, especially in tropical and Southeast Asian countries. It is a flavorful and aromatic rice dish made by cooking rice with coconut milk and often infused with various spices and seasonings.
The exact ingredients and preparation methods can vary widely from region to region, but the core components typically include rice and coconut milk.
Coconut Rice Ingredients
Note: The full ingredients list is provided in the recipe card below.
- Unsalted butter or extra virgin olive oil: The recipe calls for either unsalted butter or extra virgin olive oil to cook the onion and garlic. This adds richness and flavor to the dish.
- Yellow onion: The onion is finely chopped and cooked with garlic to add flavor and aroma.
- Garlic cloves: Finely minced garlic adds a pungent and slightly sweet flavor.
- Jasmine rice: This is a long-grain aromatic rice commonly used in Asian cuisine. It has a slightly sweet and nutty flavor and a delicate aroma.
- Canned unsweetened coconut milk: This is the main ingredient that gives the rice its creamy texture and subtle coconut flavor.
- Warm water: Water is added to the rice to help it cook and absorb the flavors of the other ingredients.
- Knorr chicken flavor bouillon: This seasoning adds a savory and slightly salty flavor to the dish.
- Ground black pepper: Adds a subtle spicy kick to the dish.
- Cilantro: A small bunch of cilantro is chopped and stirred into the cooked rice to add freshness and a pop of color.
Tools you'll need
How to Make Coconut Rice
Note: The full instructions are provided in the recipe card below.
Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over high heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook until soft, about 2 minutes. Add the rice and stir to coat with grains in the butter and toast for 2 to 3 minutes.
Add the coconut milk, knorr chicken flavor bouillon, pepper, and water, and boil. Stir once, cover, reduce the heat to medium-low, and cook until tender and the liquid has been absorbed completely about 7 to 10 minutes.
Remove the pot from the heat and let it stand for 10 minutes, covered. Fluff with a fork and stir in the chopped cilantro. Enjoy! Pair with our Chicken Tikka Masala.
Substitutions
- Unsalted butter or extra virgin olive oil: You can substitute with any cooking oil or fat you prefer, such as coconut oil, vegetable oil, or ghee.
- Yellow onion: You can use white onion, red onion, or shallots instead of yellow onion. You can also omit the onion altogether if you prefer.
- Garlic cloves: You can use garlic powder or minced garlic from a jar instead of fresh garlic cloves.
- Jasmine rice: You can use any long-grain or medium-grain rice for this recipe.
- Canned unsweetened coconut milk: If you don't have canned coconut milk, you can use fresh coconut milk or coconut cream. You can also substitute with almond milk, soy milk, or other non-dairy milk.
- Knorr chicken flavor bouillon: You can use chicken broth, vegetable broth, or bouillon cubes instead of Knorr chicken flavor bouillon.
- Ground black pepper: You can omit the pepper or use other spices such as cumin, coriander, or turmeric.
- Cilantro: If you don't like cilantro, you can substitute it with parsley, basil, or green onions. You can also omit the herb altogether.
Variations
- Mango Coconut Rice: Add diced fresh mango to the coconut rice before serving. This will add sweetness and a fruity flavor to the dish.
- Pineapple Coconut Rice: Add diced pineapple to the coconut rice just before serving. This will add a tangy and tropical flavor to the dish.
- Spicy Coconut Rice: Add some red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeño peppers to the rice while it cooks for a spicy kick.
- Curry Coconut Rice: Add some curry powder or paste to the rice while cooking for fragrant and flavorful curry rice.
- Shrimp Coconut Rice: Add cooked shrimp to the rice just before serving for a protein-packed meal.
- Vegetable Coconut Rice: Add your favorite vegetables, such as carrots, peas, and green beans, to the rice while cooking for a hearty vegetable rice dish.
- Coconut Quinoa: Substitute the Jasmine rice with quinoa for a healthier alternative packed with protein and fiber.
- Coconut Brown Rice: Substitute the Jasmine rice with brown rice for a nuttier and more nutritious version.
How to Serve
Coconut rice is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways. Here are some ideas on how to serve coconut rice:
- As a side dish: Coconut rice is an excellent side dish for various main dishes, especially Asian-inspired ones such as stir-fries, curries, and grilled meats. Serve it alongside your favorite protein and vegetables for a complete meal.
- In a bowl: Serve coconut rice topped with your favorite protein, such as grilled chicken or tofu, and vegetables, like steamed broccoli or roasted sweet potatoes. Add some fresh herbs and chopped nuts for added flavor and texture.
- Stuffed-in vegetables: Hollow out bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplant and stuff them with coconut rice. Bake them in the oven until the vegetables are tender and the rice is heated.
- As a base for bowls: Coconut rice is a great base for various bowl meals. Top it with your favorite vegetables, protein, and sauce for a delicious and nutritious meal.
- Fried coconut rice: Transform leftover coconut rice into a new dish by frying it with vegetables and protein, such as scrambled eggs, shrimp, or tofu. Add soy sauce, sesame oil, and green onions for a savory and delicious meal.
No matter how you serve it, coconut rice is a flavorful and comforting dish that will satisfy your cravings.
How to Store & Re-Heat
To store leftover coconut rice, let it cool to room temperature and transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or in the freezer for 2-3 months. When reheating the rice, you can use the microwave or stovetop.
To reheat coconut rice in the microwave, place the desired amount in a microwave-safe dish, cover it with a damp paper towel, and microwave it for 1-2 minutes, occasionally stirring, until heated. To reheat coconut rice on the stovetop, add a splash of water or broth to the rice to help it loosen up and prevent drying. Heat the rice in a non-stick skillet or saucepan over medium heat, frequently stirring, until heated. Add more coconut milk or other liquid to the rice to make it creamier.
It's important to note that reheated rice should be consumed within 24 hours, as it can spoil if left at room temperature for too long.
Make-Ahead
Coconut rice is a great make-ahead dish, as it can be prepared a day or two in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve. Here's how to make and store coconut rice ahead of time:
- Prepare the coconut rice according to the recipe instructions, but stop after cooking it for 7-10 minutes. Do not stir in the cilantro.
- Let the rice cool to room temperature, transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- When ready to serve, reheat the rice in the microwave or stovetop using the methods outlined in the "How to Store & Re-Heat" section above.
- Once the rice is heated, stir in the chopped cilantro and serve immediately.
Making coconut rice can save you time and effort on the day of your meal, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your menu. Plus, the flavors will have more time to meld together, resulting in an even more delicious dish.
How to Freeze
Coconut rice can be frozen for up to 2-3 months, making it a great option for meal prep or for making large batches to enjoy later. Here's how to freeze coconut rice:
- Allow the cooked coconut rice to cool to room temperature.
- Once the rice has cooled, transfer it to a freezer-safe container with an airtight lid or a resealable freezer bag. Remove as much air as possible before sealing the container or bag.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents, then place it in the freezer.
- To thaw frozen coconut rice, transfer it to the refrigerator the night before you use it. Alternatively, you can thaw it in the microwave on the defrost setting or low power, occasionally stirring, until heated.
- Once the coconut rice is thawed, reheat it in the microwave or stovetop using the methods outlined in the "How to Store & Re-Heat" section above.
It's important to note that rice can be a breeding ground for bacteria, so it's important to ensure it is fully cooked and cooled before freezing. Additionally, it's recommended that you only reheat rice once after it has been cooked, so make sure only to thaw the amount of rice you plan to use.
Tips for Making The Best Coconut Rice
- Rinse the rice: Rinse the rice thoroughly under cold running water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and prevents the rice from sticking together.
- Toast the rice: Toasting the rice in butter or oil before adding the liquids can help enhance the rice's nutty flavor.
- Use the right liquid ratio: For every 1 cup of rice, use 1 ½ cups. This will ensure the rice is fully cooked and not too dry or mushy.
- Don't lift the lid: Once you have covered the rice with a lid, don't lift it until it is fully cooked. This will allow the rice to steam and absorb the liquid evenly.
- Let the rice rest: After cooking, sit for 5-10 minutes before fluffing it with a fork. This allows the rice to absorb any remaining liquid, resulting in a fluffier and more evenly cooked rice.
- Use quality ingredients: Use good quality Jasmine rice, canned coconut milk, and fresh herbs to ensure the best flavor.
- Adjust the seasoning: Taste the rice before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or other spices to suit your taste.
FAQ
Can I use brown rice instead of Jasmine rice for coconut rice?
You can use brown rice instead of Jasmine rice for coconut rice. Remember that brown rice will take longer to cook and require more liquid.
Is coconut rice gluten-free?
Yes, coconut rice is gluten-free as long as the ingredients are gluten-free.
Can I use light coconut milk instead of full-fat coconut milk?
You can use light coconut milk instead of full-fat, but remember that the rice may not be as creamy and flavorful.
Can I make coconut rice in a rice cooker?
You can make coconut rice in a rice cooker by using the same rice ratio to liquid and adding the coconut milk, bouillon, and pepper to the rice cooker. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for cooking the rice.
Can I substitute coconut cream for coconut milk in coconut rice?
You can substitute coconut cream for coconut milk, but remember that the rice may be even creamier and richer in flavor.
Can I add other vegetables to coconut rice?
You can add other vegetables, such as carrots, peas, and green beans, to coconut rice while cooking to add flavor and nutrition.
Can I use vegetable bouillon instead of chicken bouillon in coconut rice?
You can use vegetable bouillon instead of chicken bouillon in coconut rice for a vegetarian or vegan dish.
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Recipe
Coconut Rice
Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter or extra virgin olive oil
- 1 yellow onion , finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves , finely minced
- 2 cups Jasmine rice
- One (14-ounce) canned unsweetened coconut milk
- 1 cup of warm water
- 1 ½ teaspoons knorr chicken flavor bouillon
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 small bunch of cilantro , chopped
Instructions
- Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over high heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook until soft, about 2 minutes. Add the rice and stir to coat with grains in the butter and toast for 2 to 3 minutes.
- Add the coconut milk, knorr chicken flavor bouillon, pepper, and water, and bring to a boil. Stir once, cover, reduce the heat to medium-low and cook until tender and liquid have been absorbed completely, about 7 to 10 minutes.
- Remove the pot from the heat and let stand 10 minutes, covered. Fluff with a fork and stir in the chopped cilantro. Enjoy! Pair with our Chicken Tikka Masala
Notes
- Prepare the coconut rice according to the recipe instructions, but stop after cooking it for 7-10 minutes. Do not stir in the cilantro.
- Let the rice cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- When ready to serve, reheat the rice in the microwave or stovetop using the methods outlined in the "How to Store & Re-Heat" section above.
- Once the rice is heated, stir in the chopped cilantro and serve immediately.
- Allow the cooked coconut rice to cool to room temperature.
- Once the rice has cooled, transfer it to a freezer-safe container with an airtight lid or a resealable freezer bag. Remove as much air as possible before sealing the container or bag.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents, then place it in the freezer.
- To thaw frozen coconut rice, transfer it to the refrigerator the night before you use it. Alternatively, you can thaw it in the microwave on the defrost setting or low power, occasionally stirring, until heated.
- Once the coconut rice is thawed, reheat it in the microwave or stovetop using the methods outlined in the "How to Store & Re-Heat" section above.
All nutritional information is based on third-party calculations and is only an estimate. Each recipe and nutritional value will vary depending on the brands you use, measuring methods, and portion sizes per household.