Creamy Coconut Rice (Printable version)

Fluffy jasmine rice simmered in rich coconut milk, ready in 25 minutes as a versatile side.

# What you'll need:

→ Rice

01 - 1 cup jasmine rice or basmati rice

→ Liquids

02 - 1 cup full-fat unsweetened coconut milk
03 - 1 cup water

→ Seasoning

04 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
05 - 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, enhances flavor)

→ Garnish (optional)

06 - 2 tablespoons shredded toasted coconut
07 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro

# Directions:

01 - Place the jasmine rice in a fine-mesh strainer and rinse thoroughly under cold running water, gently swirling the grains, until the runoff becomes completely clear to remove excess surface starch.
02 - Transfer the rinsed rice to a medium saucepan. Pour in the coconut milk and water, then add the salt and sugar. Stir gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
03 - Set the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, immediately reduce the heat to low, cover with a tight-fitting lid, and simmer for 15 to 18 minutes until all liquid has been absorbed and the rice grains are tender.
04 - Remove the saucepan from heat and let the rice rest undisturbed with the lid on for 5 minutes. Remove the lid and fluff the rice gently with a fork to separate the grains.
05 - If desired, sprinkle the toasted shredded coconut and chopped fresh cilantro over the rice before serving as an accompaniment to curries, stir-fries, or grilled dishes.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • It takes exactly one saucepan and zero culinary training to pull off perfectly.
  • The creamy, subtly sweet flavor makes even a plain bowl of rice feel like something special.
02 -
  • Resist the urge to lift the lid and check on the rice while it simmers, because every peek lets precious steam escape and stretches the cooking time.
  • Shake the coconut milk can vigorously before opening, since the cream and water separate on the shelf and you want both fully blended.
03 -
  • Toast the shredded coconut in a dry skillet for about two minutes until golden, shaking the pan constantly, because burnt coconut goes from perfect to bitter in seconds.
  • If you want the rice extra fluffy, add a half teaspoon of neutral oil to the pot along with the liquids and it will prevent the grains from clumping.

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