Coconut Rice

Coconut Rice takes regular rice to the next level with rich, creamy coconut flavor, a hint of sweetness, and a burst of fresh lime!

Coconut Rice

This is one of my favorite side dishes—it’s so simple and goes with just about anything! It took me years to get the balance just right for fluffy rice with lots of coconut flavor that isn’t sticky, but I finally figured it out, and I’m so excited to share it with you.

This rice is easy to make (because who wants to overthink a side dish?) and tastes amazing with grilled meats or saucy black beans.

If you want to take it up a notch and make it the main course, check out the “Variations” section below for some ideas.

What is Coconut Rice?

It’s rice cooked with coconut milk, water, salt, and sometimes sugar or extras like raisins. It’s creamy, lightly sweet, and full of flavor.

Ingredients

These 5 simple ingredients make the best Coconut Rice:

• Basmati Rice: Basmati is my go-to for its light, fluffy texture. Skip rinsing to keep the ratios right.
• Coconut Milk: Use good-quality full-fat coconut milk for creamy, flavorful rice. Shake the can before opening.
• Salt: Salt brings out all the flavors—don’t skip it!
• Water: Balances the richness of the coconut milk and helps the rice cook evenly.
• Lime Zest and Juice: Adds a delicious flavor that pairs great with the coconut.

Jazz Up Your Coconut Rice!

Keep it simple or try some of these fun add-ins:

• Mango & Black Beans: Add diced mango and rinsed black beans.
• Confetti Rice: Stir in sautéed peppers, shredded carrots, or frozen peas.
• Pineapple & Kidney Beans: Add diced pineapple with rinsed kidney beans.
• Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle in chopped cilantro or parsley.
• Nuts: Top with toasted macadamia nuts, almonds, or peanuts.
• Golden Raisins: Add a handful while the rice cooks.

What To Eat With Coconut Rice

Coconut Rice goes great with tropical flavors, seafood, grilled meats, or Thai curries. The sweetness balances spicy dishes perfectly!

Here are some favorites to pair with it:

• Pineapple Chicken or Mango Chicken
• Blackened Tilapia with pineapple salsa
• Thai Curries, especially spicier ones
• Teriyaki Chicken Skewers

Coconut Rice Tips

• Use Basmati Rice: It cooks up light and fluffy.
• Let It Rest: After cooking, let the rice sit so it doesn’t clump or turn sticky.
• Zest & Juice Tools: Use a grater for lime zest (skip the bitter white part) and a juicer for the lime.
• Boil First: Make sure the liquids boil before turning the heat down.
• Use Full-Fat Milk: Full-fat coconut milk makes it creamy and rich. Lite milk is too thin.

More Amazing Side Dishes

• Roasted Vegetables with a delicious seasoning blend!
• Elote Mexican street corn
• Green Beans with bacon and almonds
• Mashed Potatoes rich and creamy!
• Mango Salad with a creamy yogurt dressing