Fluffy Coconut Rice
DISCLAIMER: This post may contain affiliate links, which means that I make a small commission off items you purchase at no additional cost to you. Please read my policy page!
Fluffy Coconut Rice
Get ready for the fluffiest, creamiest coconut rice you've ever tasted --- Whip up this quick Fluffy Coconut Rice recipe in under 25 minutes and watch it become your new favorite side dish for curries, grain bowls + everything in between. It's so easy and delicious, you'll want to make it again and again! Totally Gluten-free + Vegan.
I’ve been loving sharing some of my go-to, simple side dishes with you for easy weeknight meals--- After sharing my brown rice and basmati rice recipes, I realized I couldn't keep the secret of perfectly cooked Fluffy Coconut Rice to myself any longer! We've all experienced those moments where rice turns out too sticky, too gummy, gluggy or just not quite right. But don't worry y'all, because I've mastered the art of cooking SUPER SOFT + FLUFFY Coconut Rice, and I'm here to guide you through it.
You can go with either basmati or jasmine rice for this recipe. It's got this slightly sweet flavor that goes amazingly well with savory mains. It's light, tender, and oh-so-fluffy. It's perfect for all sorts of dishes or as a tasty base for your saucy creations. Personally, I'm all about pairing it with curries like— Spicy Coconut Curry Chicken Bowl, Vegan Coconut Chickpea Curry with Potatoes, and these oh-so-creamy Spicy Butter Chickpeas! It also goes beautifully with this Healthy Weeknight General Tso's Chicken and so much more!
This recipe is seriously SO EASY, made with just 4 main ingredients and ready in a quick 25 minutes! We use coconut milk to give it that classic coconut flavor, plus a hint of raw honey for a touch of sweetness. You're gonna love it so much, you might end up making it every week. And the best part? It's perfect for meal prep too!
Jump to:
- What is Coconut Rice?
- Why You Will LOVE This Fluffy Coconut Rice
- How To Make Fluffy Coconut Rice
- Ingredients
- Foods To Pair With Fluffy Coconut Rice
- Flavor Variations For Coconut Rice
- Why Did It Come Out Mushy?
- Fluffy Coconut Rice Q + A's
- More Delicious Simple + Easy Recipes
- MADE OUR RECIPE(S)?
- Fluffy Coconut Rice
What is Coconut Rice?
Coconut rice is a delicious dish popular in many parts of the world, especially in Asia and the Caribbean. It's basically rice cooked in coconut milk instead of plain water, giving it a creamy texture and a subtle coconut flavor. Some recipes might add a bit of sugar or salt for extra taste (I opted for raw honey in this recipe). It's super tasty and can be served with a variety of dishes, adding a tropical twist to your meal!
Why You Will LOVE This Fluffy Coconut Rice
- Consistently fluffy & tender results
- Irresistible + aromatic coconut-y fragrance
- Ideal base for a variety of delicious saucy dishes!
- Meal prep friendly
- Customizable ---Experiment with different herbs + spices
How To Make Fluffy Coconut Rice
To ensure fluffy rice, rinse the rice thoroughly under cold water at least 3-4 times until the water runs clear. Drain any excess water. This step is SUPER IMPORTANT for achieving the perfect texture. Then in a skillet over medium-high heat, bring water (or veggie stock) and coconut milk to a boil. Add rice, honey, and salt, then simmer covered for 15-20 mins, stirring occasionally. If needed, add ¼ cup water. Once tender, let it sit for 5 mins off the heat.
Ingredients
RICE:
- White basmati or jasmine rice. These are the best varieties for a fluffy and aromatic texture to the coconut rice.
- Full-fat coconut milk or cream. Infuses the dish with a rich coconut flavor and adds creaminess to the rice.
- Water or vegetable stock. Provides the liquid necessary for cooking the rice and balances the richness of the coconut milk.
- Organic raw honey. Nate's Organic is a great option! You can also use organic cane sugar or maple syrup.
- Sea salt. Helps to balance the flavors.
- Parsley or cilantro. You can also use green onions/scallions.
SHOP MY FAVORITE TOOLS FOR BAKING, ESPECIALLY FOR THIS COCONUT RICE!
Here, I’ve curated a list of baking + cooking essentials that I use to achieve my favorite dishes, especially with this Fluffy Coconut Rice. Everything from my pots, skillet, wooden spoons and more. SEE THEM HERE!
Foods To Pair With Fluffy Coconut Rice
Coconut rice's versatility makes it an excellent companion to a wide range of dishes from various cuisines.
Here are some foods and dishes that pair well with it:
Curries --- A total no-brainer! The rice's fluffy texture complements rich and flavorful curries. Try my Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken or this Spicy Curry Pumpkin Soup with Chickpeas
Stews or soups --- Hearty stews and soups or anything deliciously saucy goes perfectly with coconut rice for a comforting meal. Its texture and aroma enhance this Vegan Jamaican Stew Peas and this drool-worthy Creamy White Chicken + Rice Soup
Stir-Fries --- The light and airy grains soak up the flavors of the stir-fry sauce perfectly, you could even try my Healthy Weeknight Shrimp Fried Rice with coconut rice instead!
Grain bowls --- A creative way to enjoy coconut rice as part of a balanced and customizable meal--If you are looking for inspiration try this Healthy Pesto Buddha Bowl or Easy Green Goddess Buffalo Chicken Bowl
Salads --- You can use coconut rice as a base for cold salads, mixing it with vegetables, herbs, and proteins for a satisfying meal.
Feel free to experiment with different combinations to find your favorite pairings!
Flavor Variations For Coconut Rice
If you find yourself making this recipe more than once (and trust me, you will!), here are a few ways to mix up the flavor of your coconut rice:
- Add grated lime or lemon zest for a nice citrus twist
- Throw in diced jalapeños, red pepper flakes or cajun seasoning for a spicy kick.
- Sauté minced garlic for my garlic lovers.
- Add some color and health benefits with some turmeric. See the health benefits!
Why Did It Come Out Mushy?
The key to avoiding mushy, sticky rice? Don't skip the rinsing step! Rinse your rice under cold water using a fine mesh strainer until the water runs almost clear. Give it a good stir or swish it around in a bowl of water, dumping out the starchy water until it's nearly clear. This simple step makes all the difference!
Fluffy Coconut Rice Q + A's
Leftovers can be stored in an air-tight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or stovetop when ready to serve.
Yes, you can freeze cooked rice. Portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers, and it can be stored for up to 6 months. Thaw and reheat as needed.
Rinsing the rice before cooking helps prevent sticking. Avoid overcooking and stirring the rice too much while it's cooking. Fluff the rice with a fork after cooking to separate the grains.
Yes! Rinsing helps remove excess starch from the rice, which can make it less sticky when cooked. Keep in mind that not rinsing can lead to less fluffy, separate grains of rice in the final dish.
To whip up the tastiest coconut rice in your rice cooker, rinse the rice as mentioned in the recipe. Then, toss all the ingredients into the rice cooker bowl and cook it up following the same instructions. Once the rice is done, fluff it with a fork, maybe add some garnishes if you're feeling fancy, and it's good to go!
More Delicious Simple + Easy Recipes
Now that you've fallen in love with Fluffy Coconut Rice, give these other easy recipes a try next:
- How to Make Vegan Ranch Dressing
- Sweet + Spicy Herb Crackers
- Roasted Garlic Olive Oil Dip
- How to Make Quick Pickled Vegetables
- Easy Shredded Chicken
- How To Make Chocolate Oat Milk
- How To Make Crispy Seasoned French Fries
MADE OUR RECIPE(S)?
If you tried this Fluffy Coconut Rice recipe or any other recipe on my website, please please leave a 🌟 star rating and let me know how you go in the 📝 comments below. And don't forget to tag @orchidsnsweettea_ on Instagram and hashtag it #orchidsandsweettea! I love hearing from you!
Fluffy Coconut Rice
Ingredients
RICE:
- 2 cups white basmati or jasmine rice
- 1 (14 oz.) can full-fat coconut milk or cream
- 1 ½ cups water or vegetable stock
- 1 teaspoon organic raw honey (You can also use organic cane sugar or maple syrup)
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (You can also use green onions/scallions)
Instructions
RINSE + DRAIN RICE:
- In a large strainer, add the rice and wash thoroughly with cold water, at least 3-4 times and then drain any excess water.
TO COOK THE RICE:
- In a medium sized deep skillet or saucepan over medium-high heat, add the water (or veggie stock) and coconut milk and bring to a boil. Add in the rice, honey, and salt and reduce the heat to a simmer and cover it and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. NOTE: Add additional ¼ cup of water after awhile if the liquid dries out and the rice isn't tender and cooked through yet.
- Once the rice is cooked through + tender once tested, remove from heat and let it sit for 5 minutes to "rest". Stir in the chopped fresh parsley or cilantro.
- Fluff the rice with a fork and serve in your favorite meal.
- Bon Appetit!
Tips & Tricks
Nutrition
DID YOU MAKE THIS recipe?
Tag @orchidsnsweettea_ on Instagram and hashtag it #orchidsandsweettea
LOVE THIS RECIPE?
LET US KNOW!