Jamaican Coconut Rice

Name: Jamaican Coconut Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups long-grain white rice; 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk; 1 cup water; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon sugar; 2 sprigs fresh thyme; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love making Jamaican Coconut Rice because it brings a taste of the Caribbean right to my kitchen. The creamy coconut pairs wonderfully with the fluffy rice, creating a dish that's not only delicious but also feels like a comforting hug. I've experimented with different spices and methods, but this version is my favorite, as it balances the richness of coconut milk with just the right hint of sweetness. Whether I’m serving it as a side or a main course, this dish always impresses those who try it.

Created by

Keira Thompson

Last updated on 2026-01-13T19:46:15.095Z

During my last vacation in Jamaica, I had the opportunity to taste the most amazing Coconut Rice. The locals made it with fresh coconut milk, and the flavor was unlike anything I'd ever had before. Inspired by that experience, I decided to recreate it at home. Using just a few simple ingredients, I learned how combining coconut milk with the right spices takes the dish to another level of deliciousness.

As I perfected my recipe, I found that soaking the rice beforehand helped it absorb the flavors better, resulting in a more fragrant and delicious dish. The addition of fresh thyme adds a lovely herbaceous note that complements the sweet coconut perfectly. I can’t wait for you to try it!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy coconut flavor that transports you to the tropics
Quick and easy preparation for busy weeknights
Versatile enough to pair with a variety of main dishes

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The star of this Jamaican Coconut Rice recipe is undoubtedly the coconut milk. It imparts a rich, creamy texture and a subtle sweetness that enhances the overall flavor of the dish. When choosing coconut milk, look for a full-fat version as it provides the best creaminess. If you're looking for a lighter alternative, you can also find reduced-fat options, but the dish's richness may be compromised.

The use of long-grain white rice is crucial for achieving that fluffy texture. It cooks up light and separates easily, preventing the dish from becoming gummy. While jasmine rice can be a fragrant substitute, be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as it tends to absorb moisture differently than standard long-grain rice.

Cooking Techniques for Perfect Rice

Rinsing the rice is an essential step that not only removes excess starch but also helps the grains cook evenly. A simple rinse under cold running water until it runs clear will suffice. This prevents the rice from clumping together and ensures that every grain is distinct and fluffy once cooked.

When cooking, it's important to keep the heat consistent. Start by bringing the pot to a boil over medium heat to activate the cooking process. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low to allow for gentle simmering. Too high a temperature might lead to uneven cooking, resulting in undercooked or burnt rice at the bottom.

Serving and Variations

This coconut rice pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes, from grilled chicken to spicy jerk pork. You can also elevate the dish by adding vegetables like black beans or sautéed bell peppers for added flavor and color. For an aromatic twist, consider stirring in a squeeze of lime juice just before serving, enhancing the tropical essence.

If you're interested in meal prep, this dish stores well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container, where it will remain fresh for up to five days in the refrigerator. To reheat, simply add a splash of water to help restore its moisture and reheat gently on the stovetop until warmed through.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients before starting:

Ingredients

2 cups long-grain white rice
1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
1 cup water
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon sugar
2 sprigs fresh thyme
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make Jamaican Coconut Rice:

Rinse the Rice

Begin by rinsing the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and helps achieve fluffy rice.

Combine Ingredients

In a large saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, coconut milk, water, salt, sugar, black pepper, and thyme.

Cook the Rice

Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 20 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.

Fluff and Serve

Remove from heat, let it sit covered for an additional 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork. Serve hot as a side to your favorite dish!

Enjoy your delicious Jamaican Coconut Rice!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, try adding diced green onions or toasted coconut flakes before serving to enhance the flavor and presentation.

Storage Tips

Proper storage is key to preserving the quality of your Jamaican Coconut Rice. After it cools to room temperature, transfer it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to five days, making it a great option for meal prep or leftovers. If you want to extend its shelf life, consider freezing portions in freezer-safe bags for up to three months.

When you're ready to enjoy your frozen coconut rice, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. To reheat, add a tablespoon of water to prevent it from drying out, and microwave it or heat it up on the stovetop over low heat. Stir gently, and your rice will be fluffy and delicious once again.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking for alternatives or have dietary restrictions, there are several substitutions you can make. For a dairy-free version, coconut milk is already a perfect choice. If you're avoiding sugar, you may substitute the sugar with an equivalent amount of honey or maple syrup, though you may want to adjust the amount based on your sweetness preference.

For those who prefer a gluten-free option, ensure that the coconut milk you select is free from any additives that may contain gluten. Additionally, if you have herbs on hand, you can replace fresh thyme with dried thyme or create a unique flavor profile using fresh cilantro or parsley.

Cooking Mistakes to Avoid

One common mistake in making coconut rice is adding too much liquid. Coconut milk is already quite rich and creamy, so if you're unsure about the right ratio, it’s best to start with relatively equal parts liquid. The rice should absorb the coconut milk and water without becoming overly mushy, leading to the ideal fluffy texture.

Another pitfall is cooking the rice at too high of a temperature. This can lead to uneven cooking and burnt rice at the bottom of the pot. Keep the heat manageable and allow the dish to simmer gently after reaching a boil. If the water evaporates too quickly, adding it too soon can prevent the rice from fully cooking through.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but keep in mind that brown rice will require a longer cooking time and more liquid.

→ Can I make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! The recipe is already vegan-friendly as it uses coconut milk.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ What dishes pair well with coconut rice?

Jamaican Coconut Rice pairs beautifully with jerk chicken, grilled fish, or curries.