Jamaican Coconut Rice

Name: Jamaican Coconut Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups jasmine rice; 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk; 1 cup water; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon; 1 sprig fresh thyme (optional); 1 tablespoon sugar (optional)

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love preparing Jamaican Coconut Rice as it brings a burst of tropical flavor to my table. With every bite, the rich creaminess of coconut milk combined with the tender grains of rice creates the perfect accompaniment to any meal. It's simple yet elegant, and I've come to realize how versatile it can be. Whether I'm serving it with spicy jerk chicken or a light vegetable curry, this dish never fails to impress my family and friends. Trust me, once you try this fragrant rice, it will become a staple in your kitchen!

Created by

Lucy Price

Last updated on 2026-01-13T18:49:15.515Z

When I first tasted Jamaican Coconut Rice during a family vacation in Jamaica, I was blown away by how the creamy coconut complemented the fluffy rice. Since then, I’ve been on a mission to recreate that perfect dish at home. I’ve found that using quality coconut milk and a pinch of salt really elevates the flavor, making all the difference in achieving that authentic experience.

Experimenting with spices was a delightful journey; adding a hint of cinnamon and some fresh thyme took the rice to a whole new level. I love serving it with grilled fish or spicy curries, as the mild sweetness plays beautifully with savory flavors. This recipe truly captures the spirit of Jamaican cuisine!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich coconut flavor that enhances any meal
Fluffy texture that perfectly complements savory dishes
Easy and quick to make, perfect for busy nights

      

Enhancing Flavor with Coconut Milk

Coconut milk is the star ingredient in this Jamaican Coconut Rice, providing a rich and creamy texture that elevates the dish. When selecting coconut milk, aim for a full-fat option, as it offers a more luxurious mouthfeel and flavor. For a lighter version, you can use light coconut milk, but be aware that the final texture will be less creamy. The sweetness of coconut milk pairs beautifully with the gentle warmth of cinnamon, creating a delightful harmony in every bite.

If you're feeling adventurous, consider adding a splash of lime juice or zest along with the coconut milk to brighten the overall flavor. This citrus addition complements the sweetness while also bringing a hint of acidity that balances the richness of the dish. Just a teaspoon of lime juice can go a long way in enhancing the tropical notes without overwhelming the rice.

Perfecting Your Rice Cooking Technique

Cooking rice perfectly can be tricky, but the method used here ensures fluffy and non-sticky grains. Rinsing the jasmine rice is crucial, as it removes excess starch that can cause clumping. Make sure to rinse until the water becomes clear, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes. After adding all ingredients to your saucepan and bringing it to a boil, remember to cover the pot and reduce the heat immediately to prevent burning, maintaining a gentle simmer for 18-20 minutes.

One common issue is undercooking the rice, which can leave grains hard or chewy. If you find your rice isn't tender after the suggested cooking time, add a couple of tablespoons of water, re-cover the pot, and let it steam for an additional 2-3 minutes. This will help ensure the grains absorb any remaining liquid and achieve that desired fluffy texture.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Jamaican Coconut Rice serves as a versatile base that pairs well with a variety of dishes. While it's an excellent companion to spicy jerk chicken, you might try serving it alongside grilled fish or roasted vegetables for a delightful meal. For added nutrition, consider incorporating steamed peas or shredded carrots into the rice during the last few minutes of cooking. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also boosts the fiber content of your meal.

If you're looking to make this dish a bit heartier, you can transform it into a coconut fried rice by sautéing cooked rice with vegetables, eggs, and a dash of soy sauce. This variation provides a satisfying and quick weeknight meal option while retaining the original flavors of coconut rice. You can also play around with spices, adding a pinch of cardamom or turmeric for a unique twist!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make a delicious Jamaican Coconut Rice.

Ingredients

2 cups jasmine rice
1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
1 cup water
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1 sprig fresh thyme (optional)
1 tablespoon sugar (optional)

These ingredients will come together to create a wonderfully fragrant dish.

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your Jamaican Coconut Rice.

Rinse the Rice

Start by rinsing the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming gummy.

Combine Ingredients

In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, coconut milk, water, salt, cinnamon, and sugar if using. Stir gently to mix everything together.

Cook the Rice

Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes until the rice is cooked and has absorbed the liquid.

Fluff and Serve

Remove the saucepan from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes. Then, fluff the rice with a fork and add the fresh thyme if desired before serving.

Enjoy the aromatic blend of flavors in your Jamaican Coconut Rice!

Pro Tips

For an added kick, consider mixing in some cooked black beans or peas for extra protein and color. This dish also pairs wonderfully with pineapple for a refreshing twist.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Jamaican Coconut Rice can be made ahead of time, making it a great option for meal prep. After cooking, allow the rice to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate it for up to 4 days. When reheating, you may need to add a splash of water or coconut milk to restore creaminess, then microwave or heat it on the stovetop until heated through, stirring occasionally.

For longer storage, consider freezing the rice. Place cooled rice in a freezer-safe bag or container, ensuring to squeeze out as much air as possible. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply transfer the rice from the freezer to the refrigerator to thaw overnight, then warm it up as mentioned earlier. This allows you to enjoy the tropical flavors anytime!

Common Troubleshooting Tips

If your rice ends up too sticky, it may be due to not rinsing it thoroughly before cooking. The excess starch can cause clumping. In the future, be diligent about rinsing until the water is clear, which will prevent that gummy texture. If you find the rice too dry after cooking, next time consider using a bit more coconut milk or water to ensure proper absorption during the cooking process.

Another issue may arise if you forget to lower the heat after bringing the rice to a boil. This can lead to burnt rice or unevenly cooked grains. Always remember to reduce the heat to low and keep the pot covered during cooking to lock in steam and moisture. These small adjustments can make a significant difference in the outcome of your Jamaican Coconut Rice!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead?

Yes, you can substitute brown rice, but adjust the cooking time to 40-45 minutes and increase the water slightly.

→ Is it necessary to rinse the rice?

Rinsing the rice is important as it removes starch, ensuring the rice is fluffy rather than sticky.

→ Can I make this dish vegan?

Absolutely! The recipe is already vegan-friendly if you use coconut milk without additives.

→ What can I serve with Jamaican Coconut Rice?

This rice pairs beautifully with grilled meats, curries, or even tropical salads!