Healthy Coconut Rice Recipe (Fluffy and Flavorful)
This healthy coconut rice recipe combines jasmine rice, coconut milk, and water for perfectly fluffy, fragrant rice with a subtle coconut flavor. Made on the stovetop with easy rice cooker and Instant Pot options, it's a delicious side dish that pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, seafood, curries, and rice bowls.
Ingredients
- 1 cup jasmine rice
- 1 cup coconut milk canned and shaken up
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp coconut sugar optional
Optional Garnish
- cilantro
- cinnamon
- macadamia nut
Instructions
- Begin by placing the jasmine rice in a bowl and cover it generously with cold water. Let the rice soak for at least 15 minutes or up to several hours. This helps break down the anti-nutrients and it helps the grains cook more evenly which contributes to a light, fluffy texture.1 cup jasmine rice
- Place the jasmine rice in a fine mesh strainer and rinse under cold water until the water runs mostly clear. This removes excess starch and is one of the most important steps for achieving a fluffy texture rather than sticky rice.
- Add the coconut milk, water, and salt to a medium pot. Heat over medium heat until the mixture comes to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally to combine the coconut milk and water. Avoid bringing it to a hard boil.1 cup coconut milk, 1 cup water, 1/2 tsp salt, 1 tsp coconut sugar
- Stir the well-drained rice into the hot coconut milk mixture. Allow it to return to a gentle simmer.
- Once simmering, immediately reduce the heat to low and cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid. Cook for 12–15 minutes, or until the liquid has been absorbed. Avoid stirring the rice or lifting the lid while it cooks.
- Remove the pot from the heat and let the rice sit, covered, for 10 minutes. This resting period allows the remaining moisture to redistribute and helps create the best results.
- Use a fork to gently fluff the rice. Serve warm with a pinch of cinnamon or a squeeze of lime juice if desired.
Notes
If you are wondering how to make the rice in a rice cooker or instant pot you can refer to my blog post for instructions.
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!