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 cup coconut milk; 1 cup water; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 scallion, diced

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love Jamaican Coconut Rice; it brings the perfect balance of savory and sweet flavors to any meal. Whenever I make it, I can’t help but think of the vibrant Caribbean vibes that fill my kitchen. The creamy coconut milk and fluffy rice come together to create a comforting dish that pairs beautifully with spicy jerk chicken or fresh seafood. If you’ve never tried it, I encourage you to give this recipe a go—it’s an easy way to transport your taste buds to a tropical paradise right at home.

Created by

Helena Wright

Last updated on 2026-01-13T23:25:11.065Z

During my travels to Jamaica, I was captivated by the local cuisine, and coconut rice was a staple that stood out to me. It’s not just about the ingredients; it’s about the cooking method. Simmering the rice in coconut milk allows it to absorb the rich, nutty flavors, giving it a unique taste. I've since experimented with different spices and ratios, but the traditional method remains my favorite.

One tip I’ve found incredibly helpful is to let the rice rest after cooking for about 5 minutes. This simple step allows the flavors to meld beautifully while giving the rice a fluffier texture. It’s details like this that elevate the dish from good to unforgettable!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich coconut flavor balanced with aromatic spices
Creamy texture that pairs perfectly with various proteins
Quick and easy one-pot dish ideal for busy weeknights

      

The Role of Coconut Milk

Coconut milk is the star ingredient of this recipe, contributing its rich and tropical flavor to the rice. It notably enhances the overall creaminess of the dish, creating a luxurious texture that distinguishes Jamaican Coconut Rice from plain rice. When selecting coconut milk, choose a full-fat variety for the best results; this ensures a richer flavor and creamier consistency. Light coconut milk can be used for a lower-calorie version, but keep in mind that it may alter the dish's overall richness.

In terms of preparation, it's important to shake the can of coconut milk well before pouring it into your rice mixture. This helps to combine the creamy layer on top with the liquid beneath, ensuring an even distribution of flavor. Watching for small curds while mixing is essential; you want a smooth, glossy liquid to mix with your rice.

Perfecting the Rice Texture

The key to achieving perfect rice lies in the rinsing process. Rinsing the long-grain white rice not only removes surface starch but also prevents clumping, yielding fluffy grains after cooking. You should rinse until the water runs clear—typically about two to three cycles of rinsing. This step is crucial, and skipping it may lead to a sticky, less appealing final product.

Once cooked, allow the rice to rest off the heat for at least five minutes. This resting period helps the steam redistribute, plumping up the grains without overcooking. For extra fluffiness, gently fluff the rice with a fork before serving to separate the grains. This way, each bite remains light and airy, perfect for soaking up accompanying dishes like a zesty jerk chicken or fresh seafood.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make Jamaican Coconut Rice:

Main Ingredients

1 cup long-grain white rice
1 cup coconut milk
1 cup water
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1 scallion, diced

Ensure you have everything ready before you start cooking for a smooth process!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create delicious Jamaican Coconut Rice:

Rinse the Rice

Begin by rinsing the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming sticky.

Combine Ingredients

In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, coconut milk, water, salt, thyme, and diced scallion. Stir gently to mix.

Cook the Rice

Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan with a lid, and let it simmer for 20 minutes.

Rest the Rice

After 20 minutes, remove the saucepan from heat and let it sit for an additional 5 minutes, covered, to allow the flavors to intensify.

Fluff and Serve

After resting, use a fork to fluff the rice gently. Serve warm, and enjoy the delightful combination of flavors!

This dish is best served warm alongside your favorite main courses!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a bay leaf or some grated ginger while cooking.

Serving Suggestions

Jamaican Coconut Rice pairs beautifully with various proteins. Its creamy texture complements spicy jerk chicken, grilled shrimp, or even a light fish dish. For a vegetarian option, consider serving it alongside spiced black beans or a fresh mango salsa, both of which will balance the richness of the rice with bright, zesty flavors. Don’t hesitate to garnish the dish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for added color and taste.

To elevate the dish further, you can incorporate vibrant vegetables like bell peppers or peas during the last few minutes of cooking. Simply add them to the rice mixture once it begins to boil, allowing them to cook gently while absorbing the coconut flavors. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds nutritional value and texture.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store the Jamaican Coconut Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. When reheating, it’s advisable to sprinkle a little water over the rice to prevent it from drying out. Heat it gently in the microwave in short bursts or in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure it heats evenly. A little extra coconut milk can also be added at this stage to restore creaminess.

For longer storage, you can freeze the rice in portioned amounts. When freezing, spreading the rice on a baking sheet to cool before transferring it to freezer bags helps prevent sticking together. To reheat frozen rice, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then follow the reheating tips mentioned above. This allows for a quick and easy side dish any night of the week!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead?

Yes, but you'll need to adjust the cooking time and liquid amounts since brown rice takes longer to cook.

→ Is it possible to make this dish vegan?

Absolutely! Just ensure that the coconut milk used is dairy-free, and this recipe is already vegan-friendly.

→ Can I prepare this rice in advance?

Yes, you can make it ahead of time and reheat it when ready to serve. Just add a little water before reheating to keep it moist!

→ What should I serve with Jamaican Coconut Rice?

It's a versatile side dish that pairs exceptionally well with jerk chicken, curry shrimp, or grilled vegetables.