Coconut rice is a deliciously fragrant and creamy dish that is popular in many tropical countries. It’s made by cooking white rice with coconut milk, giving it a slightly sweet flavor that pairs well with a variety of proteins and vegetables. This recipe is easy to make and can be on your dinner table in just about 20 minutes. Whether you’re looking for a simple side dish or a complete meal, coconut rice is a tasty and satisfying choice.
Contents
WHY YOU’LL LOVE COCONUT RICE
- It has a unique and delicious flavor: Coconut rice is infused with the rich, nutty flavor of coconut milk, which gives it a taste that is both sweet and savory.
- It’s easy to make: Coconut rice is a simple dish to prepare. It typically involves cooking rice with coconut milk, water, and a few seasonings, which makes it a quick and easy option for busy nights.
- It’s versatile: Coconut rice can be served as a side dish or used as a base for other dishes. It pairs well with a variety of meats, seafood, and vegetables, making it a great option for different meals.
- It’s a great option for vegetarians and vegans: Coconut rice is a great option for those following a vegetarian or vegan diet, as it is a flavorful and satisfying dish that is high in carbohydrates.
HEALTH BENEFITS
Coconut rice, like white rice, is a good source of carbohydrates and can provide a moderate amount of calories. However, because it is cooked with coconut milk, it also contains a significant amount of saturated fat. Therefore, It should be consumed in moderation as part of a well-balanced diet, especially if you are trying to watch your saturated fat intake.
Additionally, because of the coconut milk which contains some beneficial nutrients such as Vitamin C, calcium, and magnesium, consuming coconut rice can provide some level of these nutrient to the body.
PrintCoconut Rice Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Description
Coconut rice is a deliciously fragrant and creamy dish that is popular in many tropical countries. It’s made by cooking white rice with coconut milk, giving it a slightly sweet flavor that pairs well with a variety of proteins and vegetables. This recipe is easy to make and can be on your dinner table in just about 20 minutes. Whether you’re looking for a simple side dish or a complete meal, coconut rice is a tasty and satisfying choice.
Ingredients
- 1 cup of white rice
- 1 cup of coconut milk
- 1 cup of water
- Salt, to taste (optional)
Optional ingredients for added flavor:
- Chopped cilantro
- Grated lime zest
- Toasted coconut flakes
- Diced nuts
EQUIPMENT
- A fine mesh sieve for rinsing the rice
- A medium saucepan with a lid
- A spoon or spatula for stirring
- Measuring cups
- A fork for fluffing the rice
- optional: cutting board and knife for chopping cilantro, grater for lime zest, skillet for toasting the coconut flakes
Instructions
Step 1: Begin by rinsing 1 cup of white rice in a fine mesh sieve to remove excess starch. This helps the rice cook evenly and prevents it from becoming sticky.
Step 2: In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice with 1 cup of coconut milk and 1 cup of water. Add a pinch of salt to taste, if desired.
Step 3: Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pan with a lid.
Step 4: Let the rice simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the liquid has been absorbed and the rice is tender. Check on the rice periodically to make sure it’s not sticking to the bottom of the pan.
Step 5: Once done, remove from heat and let it sit for another 5 minutes with the lid on.
Step 6: Fluff the rice with a fork and serve it immediately.
Step 7: If you want to add some extra flavor to your coconut rice, try stirring in a handful of chopped cilantro or a spoonful of grated lime zest.
Step 8: You can also top the rice with some toasted coconut flakes or diced nuts for some crunch, it will make it more delicious!
Notes
- Make sure to rinse the rice well before cooking to remove excess starch and prevent it from becoming sticky.
- The ratio of rice to liquid (coconut milk and water) is important to get the right texture and flavor, the recipe provided is 1:1:1 but you may adjust it to your preference.
- Be careful not to overcook the rice, as it can become mushy and lose its shape.
- Adjust the salt to your taste and keep in mind that the coconut milk already has some natural sweetness, so you may not need as much salt as you would with plain rice.
- For extra flavor, you can add some chopped cilantro, grated lime zest, or toasted coconut flakes to the rice.
- If you have dietary restrictions or allergies, you should take note that this dish contains coconut which is a tree nut
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Lunch
- Cuisine: African/Spanish
Nutrition
- Calories: 276
- Sodium: 17mg
- Fat: 16g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: COCONUT RICE RECIPE
CONCLUSION
Coconut Rice is a delicious and nutritious dish that is sure to please any crowd. With its creamy and flavorful texture, it’s a great way to add a tropical twist to any meal. Whether vegan or not, this dish is an easy and quick option for busy weeknights or lazy weekend brunches. So, give it a try and let your taste buds take a trip to paradise!