This incredibly Easy Coconut Rice Recipe is slightly sweetened, filled with classic coconut flavor and the perfect hint of zesty lime. It's a delicious Vegan and Gluten-free side that's ready in under 30 minutes.

Jump to:

• ❤️ Why You'll Love This Coconut Rice Recipe
• 🛒 Ingredients for Coconut Rice
• 🔪 How to Make Coconut Rice
• 💡 Tips for Making Coconut Rice
• ☑️ Storage Instructions
• 🍴 What to Serve with Coconut Jasmine Rice
• 🔄 Substitutions and Additions
• What is Jasmine Rice?
• Can I Use Basmati Rice?
• How Do I Prevent Gluey Rice?
• Can I Use Coconut Water Instead?
• 🍽️ More Delicious Side Dish Recipes

❤️ Why You'll Love This Coconut Rice Recipe

• Start with fluffy, long grain Jasmine rice
• Creamy texture
• Classic coconut flavor
• Made in under 30 minutes
• Uses just a handful of ingredients
• Vegan and gluten-free

This coconut rice is a flavorful twist on traditional Jasmine rice. The subtle sweetness with the fresh and zesty lime pairs perfectly with the rich coconut. The best part is that this recipe creates rice with a creamy texture without being gluey or gummy like some other recipes.

Whether you're serving it with tropical dishes, Asian favorites, or as a main course with grilled veggies, it is a versatile and delicious addition to any meal. Plus, it’s ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for last-minute or busy weeknight dinners. 

If you love all the wonderful flavors of coconut rice but want a low-carb version, you'll definitely want to try this Coconut Cauliflower Rice.

🛒 Ingredients for Coconut Rice

• Jasmine rice
• Coconut milk
• Coconut water
• Shredded coconut
• Lime juice and zest
• Sweetener (you can use sugar, a sugar substitute, coconut sugar)
• Salt
• Optional: cilantro

*Exact measurements are listed in the recipe card below.

🥣 Recommended Tools

• Saucepan
• Fine mesh sieve

🔪 How to Make Coconut Rice

Pour the Jasmine rice into a fine mesh sieve and rinse well under cold water until the water runs clear, then set aside.

Pour the rice, coconut milk, salt and sweetener into a saucepan and bring to a simmer.

Cover with a tight-fitting lid and simmer for 15–17 minutes.

Remove from the heat and leave covered for 10 minutes.

Remove the lid, fluff with a fork and add in the shredded coconut, (optional) chopped cilantro, lime juice and zest.

Stir to combine and serve.

💡 Tips for Making Coconut Rice

• Full-fat coconut milk is best because of its rich flavor and creamy texture. Just make sure to shake the can well before opening it to ensure the coconut cream is well-mixed with the coconut water.

• Maintain a steady, low simmer once the coconut rice starts cooking. Fluctuating heat can affect the rice's texture and cooking time.

• It’s tempting to peek but keep the pot covered with a tight-fitting lid while the rice cooks. This helps to trap steam, ensuring even cooking.  

• Use a fork to fluff the rice gently before serving. This separates the grains and helps to release any excess moisture, giving the rice a light and fluffy texture.

• Coconut rice is best served warm. This is when it has the softest and fluffiest texture. If you’re making it in advance, reheat it gently with a splash of coconut milk or water and re-fluff it with a fork.

☑️ Storage Instructions

Refrigerate: Transfer your cooled coconut rice into an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It can typically be stored for up to 3–4 days.

Freezing: While coconut rice can be frozen, its texture may change upon thawing, becoming slightly mushy. If you'd like to freeze it, do so in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month.

🍴 What to Serve with Coconut Jasmine Rice

Coconut rice's subtle sweetness and creamy texture make it a versatile side to a variety of main courses. It pairs beautifully with seafood dishes like grilled shrimp or fish curry, complements the richness of grilled beef and pork or with a side of tender vegetables. Here are some great options: .

• Orange Glazed Salmon
• Red Snapper with Mango Salsa
• Asian Shrimp Tacos
• Sheet Pan Shrimp and Veggies
• Air Fryer Pork Chops
• Prime Rib for Two
• Grilled Zucchini

🔄 Substitutions and Additions

Herbs and spices: Stir in chopped fresh cilantro before serving. You can also season it with turmeric, curry powder, or some cinnamon.

Vegetables: Consider adding some veggies to your rice. Stir in cooked peas and diced carrots, finely diced bell peppers, or fresh spinach leaves.

Fruits and nuts: Add small chunks of pineapple or mango for a tropical twist and extra sweetness. Toasted cashews add a nice crunchy texture and nutty flavor.

Proteins: Make the rice hearty entrée with cooked shrimp, marinated tofu, grilled steak of shredded chicken.

What is Jasmine Rice?

Jasmine rice is a type of long-grain rice known for its fragrant aroma and delicate, slightly sticky texture when cooked. It comes from Thailand and is used and enjoyed in Southeast Asian cuisine. With its subtly sweet flavor, it's perfect for savory dishes like stir-fries and curries, as well as for desserts.

Can I Use Basmati Rice?

Yes, you can use Basmati rice instead of Jasmine rice for coconut rice. Basmati rice typically requires a bit less liquid than Jasmine rice. Adjust the cooking liquid ratio to 1 part coconut milk to 1.25 parts water or broth when using Basmati rice.

How Do I Prevent Gluey Rice?

There are two main things you can do to prevent this. The first thing to do for the perfect texture every time is to make sure you're using the right amount of liquid. The other key is to rinse the rice thoroughly before cooking to remove excess starch.

Can I Use Coconut Water Instead?

Yes, just keep in mind that using coconut water instead of coconut milk will result in a lighter and less creamy coconut rice.

🍽️ More Delicious Side Dish Recipes

• Air Fryer Sweet Potatoes
• Glazed Carrots
• Garlic Potatoes and Green Beans
• Cheesy Roasted Cauliflower
• Air Fryer Baked Potatoes