Jamaican Coconut Rice

Name: Jamaican Coconut Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup jasmine rice; 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk; 1 cup water; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 sprig of fresh thyme

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I love making Jamaican Coconut Rice because it's an irresistible combination of creamy coconut and fragrant rice. Each bite transports me to the sunny beaches of Jamaica, reminding me of the vibrant flavors of island cuisine. The coconut milk gives the rice a rich, luscious texture, while the subtle sweetness creates a perfect balance for savory dishes. Whether I’m serving it with grilled meats or enjoying it as a vegetarian delight, the harmony of flavors makes this recipe a staple in my kitchen. Prepare to dive into a tropical taste adventure!

Created by

Rebecca Mills

Last updated on 2026-01-13T20:28:12.607Z

When I first tried Jamaican Coconut Rice, I was blown away by the sheer comfort of its rich flavors. The coconut milk truly transforms the rice into a luxurious side dish that elevates any meal. I experimented with different rice types and found that jasmine rice gives an enchanting aroma and tenderness that perfectly complements the coconut.

One of my favorite tips is to add just a pinch of salt and a few sprigs of fresh thyme while cooking; it enhances the coconut flavor amazing and adds a lovely herbal note that ties everything together. Trust me, once you experience this version, you'll never want to go back!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy coconut flavor infuses every grain
Perfectly pairs with spicy or savory dishes
Easy to make with just a few ingredients

      

Flavor Profile and Texture

The combination of jasmine rice and coconut milk creates a uniquely aromatic and creamy dish. Jasmine rice, known for its slight floral scent, perfectly complements the lusciousness of coconut milk. When cooked, the rice retains a tender yet firm texture, allowing it to hold the sauce or seasoning of accompanying dishes. For those who prefer a nuttier flavor, substituting jasmine with basmati rice can also yield delicious results, though the cooking times may vary slightly.

As the rice simmers, aromatic notes arise from the fresh thyme, which infuses the dish with a subtle earthiness. If thyme isn’t available, consider substituting it with fresh cilantro or even dried bay leaves to provide a different dimension of flavor. These herbs not only enhance the overall taste but also add vibrant colors that make the dish visually appealing.

Cooking Tips for Success

Rinsing your rice before cooking is a crucial step to achieve fluffy results. This process not only removes excess starch, which can make the rice gummy, but also helps the grains to separate while cooking. After rinsing, let the rice drain in a sieve for a couple of minutes before combining it with the other ingredients. This simple tip can significantly elevate the quality of your rice and is well worth the extra minute it takes.

When cooking the rice, it's essential to keep an eye on the heat. Once the saucepan reaches a simmer, lowering the heat is key to preventing the coconut milk from boiling over. A gentle simmer allows the rice to cook evenly and absorb the flavors without turning overly mushy. If you find that the rice is not fully cooked after all the liquid has been absorbed, simply add a few tablespoons of water and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients for a delicious coconut rice:

Ingredients

1 cup jasmine rice
1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
1 cup water
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 sprig of fresh thyme

Mixing these will bring your dish to life!

Instructions

Follow these steps for perfect Jamaican Coconut Rice:

Rinse the Rice

Start by rinsing the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. This helps in achieving fluffy rice.

Combine Ingredients

In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, coconut milk, water, salt, and thyme. Stir well to mix all the ingredients.

Cook the Rice

Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-high heat. Once it starts to bubble, reduce the heat, cover, and cook for about 18-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed.

Let it Rest

Remove the saucepan from the heat and let it sit for another 5 minutes without lifting the lid. This allows the rice to steam and become perfectly fluffy.

Fluff and Serve

After resting, use a fork to fluff the rice gently. Serve it warm as a delightful side dish to your favorite protein or enjoy it on its own.

Enjoy your tropical dish!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, try adding sautéed onions or bell peppers to the rice while it cooks.

Serving Suggestions

Jamaican Coconut Rice pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes, from spicy jerk chicken to fresh grilled fish. The creamy coconut flavor acts as a wonderful contrast to spicy and savory proteins, balancing heat with a rich, cooling element. Consider serving it alongside a tangy mango salsa to enhance the tropical theme. You can even provide a topping bar with sliced scallions, avocado, or chopped nuts to customize servings.

For a vegetarian-friendly option, this coconut rice can be served with grilled vegetables or salads. I love to toss it with roasted bell peppers, sweet corn, and black beans for a hearty, colorful meal. When plating, consider having the rice as a base and layering the vegetables on top for a stunning presentation.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This coconut rice recipe is excellent for meal prep, as it stores well in the refrigerator. Once cooled, transfer the rice to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to four days. Reheating is simple; just add a splash of water and microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a little coconut milk to restore its creamy texture.

If you want to make it in advance for a larger gathering, this recipe can easily be doubled or tripled. Just ensure that you adjust the cooking pot size accordingly to avoid overcrowding. When preparing larger quantities, it’s also wise to check for doneness a few minutes earlier, as increased volume may alter cooking times slightly.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of jasmine rice?

Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time as brown rice takes longer to cook.

→ Can I add other ingredients to this rice?

Absolutely! You can mix in beans, peas, or spices to customize the flavor.

→ How can I store leftover coconut rice?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of water.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this Jamaican Coconut Rice recipe is naturally gluten-free!