The Best Coconut Rice (Printable View)

Fragrant jasmine rice cooked in coconut milk for a fluffy, subtly sweet side dish perfect for Asian-inspired meals.

# Ingredient List:

→ Rice

01 - 1 cup jasmine rice, rinsed until water runs clear

→ Liquids

02 - 1 cup full-fat unsweetened coconut milk
03 - 1 cup water

→ Seasonings

04 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
05 - 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, for subtle sweetness)

# How to Prepare:

01 - Place jasmine rice in a fine-mesh sieve and rinse thoroughly under cold running water until the water runs clear, removing excess starch for fluffy texture.
02 - In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, coconut milk, water, salt, and sugar if using. Stir gently to distribute evenly.
03 - Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil while stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
04 - Reduce heat to low, cover with a tight-fitting lid, and simmer for 15 minutes until all liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
05 - Remove from heat and let stand, covered, for 10 minutes to allow residual steam to complete cooking and ensure even texture.
06 - Uncover and gently fluff the rice with a fork, separating grains without mashing. Serve immediately as a side dish.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • The texture is impossibly fluffy, each grain separate and coated in just enough creamy coconut goodness to feel indulgent without being heavy
  • It transforms literally anything you serve it with into something that feels restaurant special and put together
02 -
  • The resting period is not optional because the rice continues cooking and absorbing moisture even after the heat is off
  • Don't stir during cooking or you'll break the grains and end up with sticky gummy rice instead of fluffy separate grains
03 -
  • Use the solid cream from the top of the coconut milk can first then add the liquid portion for the richest possible flavor
  • If your rice is still crunchy after 15 minutes add another tablespoon of water and continue cooking for 3 more minutes