Coconut rice is a beloved side dish known for its subtle sweetness and rich aroma. This Fluffy Coconut Rice recipe is incredibly easy to make and results in tender, perfectly cooked grains infused with creamy coconut flavor. Whether paired with spicy curries, grilled meats, or vegetarian dishes, it’s sure to elevate your meal with a touch of tropical flair. I can eat a whole bowl of plain rice without stew and be totally happy with myself. Rice is just fragranced aromatic and delicious on its own, especially Basmati rice! I love how coconut brings out the flavors in food, used mostly for desserts, but makes rice a dish you could eat everyday of your life without it becoming boring.
This is a simple meal that you can whip up in minutes and eat with some left over beef, chicken or vegetables. Did you know:The varieties of rice are typically classified as long-, medium-,
and short-grained. The grains of long-grain rice (high in amylose) tend to
remain intact after cooking; medium-grain rice (high in amylopectin) becomes
more sticky. Medium-grain rice is used for sweet dishes, for risotto in Italy,
and many rice dishes, such as arròs negre, in Spain. Some varieties of
long-grain rice that are high in amylopectin, known as Thai Sticky rice, are
usually steamed.
A stickier medium-grain rice is used for sushi; the stickiness
allows rice to hold its shape when molded. Medium-grain rice is used
extensively in Japan, including to accompany savoury dishes, where it is
usually served plain in a separate dish. Short-grain rice is often used for
rice pudding. Instant rice differs from parboiled rice in that it is fully
cooked and then dried, though there is a significant degradation in taste and
texture. Rice flour and starch often are used in batters and breadings to
increase crispiness. Now you know!
1 Cup Basmati Rice
1/2 Cup Coconut Cream
1/8 Teaspoon Salt
2 Tablespoon Vegetable Oil
2 1/2 Cups Water
INSTRUCTIONS
Set a deep bottomed pan on high heat. Add water and salt. Mix to combine
Add the vegetable Oil
Add coconut cream
Let mixture simmer until it comes to a boil. Wash rice under running water and add into the pan. Keep heat on high as the rice bubbles
Once water significantly reduces, turn down the heat to really low and let rice slowly simmer covered
Once all the water has dissolved, turn heat off and serve the rice immediately
Basmati rice gives you fluffy single strand rice that is not sticky but delicious
FLUFFY COCONUT RICE
Ingredients
- 1 Cup Basmati Rice
- 2 1/2 Cups Water
- 1/8 Teaspoon Salt
- 1/2 Cup Coconut Cream
- 2 Tablespoons Vegetable Oil
Instructions
Heat deep bottomed pan, add water and salt, stir to mixAdd vegetable oil and coconut cream. Let water simmer until boilingWash rice through running water and add into the pan. Simmer rice on high heatOnce water has reduced to below the rice, turn down heat, cover pan and let rice simmer slowlyRemove from heat once all the water had dissolved. Serve immediately
Details
Prep time: Cook time: Total time: Yield: 2 ServingsIf you have been enjoying these foodie adventures, I would love to stay connected. Follow me on all my social platforms for real-time updates, behind-the-scenes glimpses, and event alerts. See behind-the-scenes looks and join conversations around all things delicious. Follow me on Instagram for beautiful food photos and quick reels. Find me on Facebook for longer stories and community chats. Join the fun on Twitter(X) where I share food thoughts and tips. Get creative with me on Pinterest where you can pin your favorite recipes for later. Subscribe to my YouTube channel for the full recipe creation. Leave a comment in the comment section and let's chat!
Coconut Rice
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What type of rice is best for coconut rice?
Long-grain jasmine rice or basmati rice works best for fluffy, fragrant coconut rice. Short-grain rice can be used but will be stickier.
Q2: Can I use canned coconut milk?
Yes, canned coconut milk adds rich flavor and creaminess. You can dilute it with water depending on desired creaminess.
Q3: How do I make coconut rice vegan?
Simply use coconut milk and water—no animal products needed. Avoid adding butter if strict vegan.
Q4: Can I make coconut rice without coconut milk?
You can substitute with coconut cream mixed with water or use coconut water, but flavor will be milder.
Q5: How to prevent rice from sticking?
Rinse rice thoroughly before cooking to remove excess starch. Use the right water-to-rice ratio and avoid stirring while cooking.
🧾 Nutrition Card (Per 1 cup cooked)
| Nutrient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 250 kcal | From rice and coconut milk |
| Total Fat | 8 g | Mostly from coconut milk (healthy saturated fats) |
| Saturated Fat | 7 g | Coconut milk is high in saturated fat |
| Carbohydrates | 42 g | Mainly from rice |
| Sugars | 2 g | Naturally occurring sugars in coconut milk |
| Protein | 4 g | Rice provides some plant protein |
| Fiber | 1 g | Minimal fiber, depends on rice type |
| Sodium | 10 mg | Naturally low sodium, unless salted |
Dietary Information
| Category | Suitable? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Vegetarian | ✅ Yes | No animal products |
| Vegan | ✅ Yes | Uses coconut milk, no dairy or animal ingredients |
| Gluten-Free | ✅ Yes | Naturally gluten-free as rice and coconut milk contain no gluten |
| Dairy-Free | ✅ Yes | No dairy used |
| Nut Allergy | ✅ Yes | Coconut is technically a fruit, but cross-check if sensitive |
📝 Notes:
- Use full-fat coconut milk for richer flavor and creamier texture.
- Adjust coconut milk-to-water ratio to control creaminess and consistency.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro or toasted coconut flakes for added flavor and texture.
- Coconut rice pairs well with spicy dishes to balance heat with creaminess.
Please note that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes used. For precise nutritional information, consider using a nutrition calculator with exact ingredient measurements.
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