Description
This Simple Coconut Rice recipe combines fragrant jasmine rice with creamy full-fat coconut milk, creating a rich, flavorful side dish that’s easy to prepare. Enhanced with a touch of salt and optional lime zest or cilantro, it pairs beautifully with a wide variety of main courses, delivering a subtle tropical twist to your meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Rice Base
- 1 cup Jasmine Rice (Rinsed under cold water until the water runs clear)
Liquids
- 1 can Coconut Milk (About 13.5 ounces of full-fat coconut milk)
- 1 cup Water
Seasoning & Optional Flavor
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt (Adjust according to taste)
- Optional Lime Zest or Cilantro (For added flavor)
Instructions
- Rinse the Rice: Start by rinsing 1 cup of jasmine rice under cold water in a fine-mesh strainer until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming too sticky.
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed jasmine rice, 1 can of coconut milk, and 1 cup of water. Stir gently to mix the ingredients thoroughly.
- Add Salt: Sprinkle 1/2 teaspoon of salt into the mixture and stir again to ensure the salt is evenly distributed.
- Bring to Boil: Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the liquid mixture to a gentle boil, keeping an eye to prevent scorching.
- Simmer Covered: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid to trap steam.
- Cook the Rice: Allow the rice to simmer on low heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until the liquid is fully absorbed and the rice is tender.
- Rest the Rice: Remove the saucepan from heat but keep it covered. Let the rice sit undisturbed for an additional 10 minutes to steam and finish cooking.
- Fluff the Rice: Carefully remove the lid and fluff the rice gently with a fork to separate the grains.
- Add Optional Flavoring: If desired, fold in lime zest or freshly chopped cilantro to add a fresh, aromatic note.
- Serve Warm: Serve the simple coconut rice warm as a delicious side dish alongside your favorite main courses.
Notes
- Rinsing the rice thoroughly is key to light, fluffy coconut rice.
- Full-fat coconut milk adds richness; use light coconut milk for a lower-fat alternative but note the flavor will be less creamy.
- Adjust salt according to preference, especially if serving with salty dishes.
- Lime zest and cilantro are optional but highly recommended for a fresh herbal brightness.
- Leftover coconut rice can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently with a splash of water to maintain moisture.
