I love sharing my favorite recipe, Coconut Rice Side Dish. I mix jasmine rice with full-fat coconut milk and a pinch of salt to produce a light, fluffy side ideal for Asian-inspired dinners. The creamy texture and enticing aroma spark intrigue and offer a refreshing twist to any plate.

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I’ve been experimenting with different rice recipes for a while now and this Coconut Milk Rice has quickly become one of my all-time favorites. I love how just a handful of ingredients like 2 cups of well-rinsed jasmine rice, a can of full-fat coconut milk, 1 cup water and a half teaspoon salt can turn into one of the best Asian rice side dishes you’ll ever try.

It always reminds me of those carefree kitchen days when I first discovered Hamilton Beach Rice Cooker recipes and realized that simple ingredients can pack a punch of flavor. The texture is light and fluffy with a subtle aroma that goes great with a variety of meals, not unlike a coconut sushi rice or even coconut rice and peas.

I know it might sound too easy but trust me, once you experience the unique twist from the coconut cream, you’ll be hooked. Enjoy experimenting and making it your own!

Why I Like this Recipe

I like this recipe because it’s super simple to make, and I really appreciate that even though the ingredient list is short, the flavor comes out amazing. I also love how the air fills up with a sweet, inviting smell when the coconut milk and rice are cooking together, it kinda reminds me of a warm hug. Another reason is that it cooks pretty fast so I can whip it up on those busy days when I don’t have a lot of time. And honestly, who wouldn’t like fluffy, aromatic rice that makes any meal feel special even when it’s nothing fancy?

Ingredients

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Jasmine Rice:
- Acts as the main carbohydrate source giving plenty energy.
- Contains a bit of fibre that helps with digestion.
- Provides a fragrant grain quality prized in many recipes.
Coconut Milk:
- Full fat option adds creaminess and richness to the rice.
- Has healthy fats that help support brain function.
- Gives a smooth subtly sweet flavor and a tropical aroma.
Water:
- Hydrates rice and blends flavors evenly throughout the pot.
- Aids in achieving a perfect texture and activates flavors.
Salt:
- Enhances the taste and balances all the flavors nicely.
- Just a pinch makes it all yummy but must be measured careful.

Ingredient Quantities

2 cups jasmine rice, rinsed well

1 can (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk

1 cup water

1/2 teaspoon salt

How to Make this

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1. Rinse the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs mostly clear.

2. In a medium sized pot, combine the coconut milk, water, and salt.

3. Bring the coconut milk mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.

4. Add the rinsed rice into the boiling coconut milk mixture.

5. Stir everything briefly, then reduce the heat to low.

6. Cover the pot with a tight fitting lid and let it simmer undisturbed.

7. Allow the rice to cook for about 15 minutes or until it’s tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.

8. Remove the pot from the heat and let it stand, still covered, for another 10 minutes.

9. After that, remove the lid and gently fluff the rice with a fork.

10. Serve the coconut milk rice warm as a light, fluffy, and aromatic side dish for your Asian-inspired meal.

Equipment Needed

1. A fine mesh strainer for rinsing the jasmine rice
2. A medium-sized pot with a tight fitting lid
3. Measuring cups (for the rice, coconut milk, water, and salt)
4. A measuring spoon for the salt
5. A spoon for stirring the coconut milk mixture and rice
6. A fork for fluffing the rice after it cooks
7. A stovetop to bring everything to a boil and simmer the rice

FAQ

Q: What does full-fat coconut milk do for this rice?

A: It gives the rice a rich and creamy texture along with a sweet, subtle coconut flavor that really makes it yummy.

Q: Can I use a different type of rice?

A: Sure, you can try basmati or even long grain rice but jasmine rice gives a nice aroma and texture which is best for this recipe.

Q: How should I rinse the jasmine rice?

A: Just rinse it under cold water until the water runs clear, this helps remove extra starch and prevents the rice from being too sticky.

Q: Can I mix water with a different liquid for extra flavor?

A: Yeah, you can replace water with a light vegetable broth but be aware that it will change the flavor a bit.

Q: Should I stir the rice while it cooks?

A: Nope, it's best not to stir because that might cause the rice to break down and become mushy.

Coconut Milk Rice Recipe Substitutions and Variations

Jasmine rice: You could always swap it with basmati rice if you want a slightly different texture and flavor, though they cook a bit differently.
Coconut milk: Try using coconut cream diluted with an equal amount of water if you’re looking for a richer taste, or even lite coconut milk if you’re feelin’ a bit health conscious.
Water: If plain water seems too boring, using a low-sodium vegetable broth can add a nice depth of flavor to your dish.
Salt: If you dont have regular salt around, a pinch of garlic salt or sea salt can work just fine, but adjust to taste.

Pro Tips

1. Make sure you rinse the rice really well; dont rush it cause extra starch can make your rice gummy instead of light and fluffy.
2. Watch the coconut milk mixture as it comes to a boil so it doesnt bubble over or burn, a gentle boil is key to get that rich flavor.
3. When you stir in the rice, do it just once to evenly distribute it, too much stirring can break the grains and make it mushy.
4. After cooking, let it sit covered off the heat for the full time so the steam can finish cooking the rice and lock in the coconut flavor.