Coconut Rice Recipe (Fluffy, Creamy & Bright with Lime)

Coconut rice is a tropical favorite that blends fragrant jasmine rice with creamy coconut milk and a hint of bright lime. Whether served alongside curries, grilled seafood, or enjoyed as a sweet side dish, this Coconut Rice Recipe delivers a delicate balance of flavors and textures. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, it’s fluffy, creamy, and irresistibly aromatic. In this guide, you’ll find everything from ingredients and step-by-step instructions to tips, variations, and cultural context to elevate your rice game.

Ingredients

• 1 cup jasmine rice, rinsed
• 1 cup coconut milk (full-fat for creaminess)
• 1 cup water
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp sugar (optional, enhances sweetness)
• 1 lime (zested and juiced)
• 2 tsp coconut oil or unsalted butter
• Toasted coconut flakes, for garnish
• Fresh herbs (optional, cilantro or mint)

Instructions

1. Rinse the rice: Place jasmine rice in a fine mesh sieve and rinse under cold water until water runs clear. This removes excess starch and ensures fluffy rice.
2. Combine liquids: In a medium saucepan, mix coconut milk, water, salt, sugar, and coconut oil. Stir gently to combine.
3. Cook the rice: Add the rinsed rice to the saucepan. Bring to a gentle boil over medium-high heat.
4. Simmer: Reduce heat to low and cover with a tight-fitting lid. Simmer for 15–18 minutes, or until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed. Avoid lifting the lid too often.
5. Steam: Turn off heat and let rice sit covered for 10 minutes to steam. This helps achieve a fluffy texture.
6. Fluff & flavor: Gently fluff rice with a fork. Stir in lime zest and juice for brightness.
7. Serve: Transfer rice to serving bowls. Garnish with toasted coconut flakes and fresh herbs if desired. Serve warm with your favorite curries, grilled seafood, or tropical-inspired dishes.

Tips for Perfect Coconut Rice

• Use full-fat coconut milk for the creamiest texture. Light coconut milk can work but will yield a thinner consistency.
• Rinsing is key: Removing excess starch prevents clumping and ensures each grain is separate.
• Don’t skip steaming: After cooking, resting the rice covered allows moisture to evenly redistribute.
• Toast the coconut flakes: Lightly toasting coconut brings out natural sweetness and adds a pleasant crunch.
• Optional flavor enhancers: Add a pandan leaf while cooking for a traditional Southeast Asian aroma.

Variations

• Sweet Coconut Rice: Stir in 1–2 tbsp of sweetened condensed milk and a pinch of cinnamon for a dessert version.
• Savory Coconut Rice: Add minced garlic or shallots sautéed in coconut oil before cooking for a fragrant side.
• Tropical Fruit Rice: Mix in mango chunks, pineapple, or papaya for a fruity twist.
• Coconut-Lime Rice with Herbs: Add finely chopped mint and cilantro for a refreshing accompaniment to spicy dishes.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair Coconut Rice with Thai green curry or Jamaican jerk chicken for a tropical flavor explosion.
• Serve alongside grilled fish or shrimp for a light, summery meal.
• Use as a base for poke bowls or Buddha bowls, topped with fresh vegetables and a citrusy dressing.
• For dessert, drizzle with coconut cream and sprinkle with toasted nuts or fresh tropical fruits.

Fun Facts & Cultural Context

Coconut rice is a staple in many tropical regions including Southeast Asia, the Caribbean, and Latin America. In Thailand, it’s often paired with mango in the iconic dessert, Mango Sticky Rice. In Jamaica, rice and peas (cooked with coconut milk) is a traditional Sunday dish. Coconut milk not only adds a rich flavor but also helps make the rice naturally aromatic and creamy without adding dairy. The combination of coconut and lime is especially beloved in coastal cuisines, bringing a fresh, bright flavor that balances the richness of the coconut.

Nutrition (per serving, approx.)

• Calories: 210
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Protein: 3g
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Sodium: 230mg
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 2g

Tips for Storage & Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store leftover coconut rice in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: Coconut rice can be frozen for up to 1 month. Defrost in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat: Use a splash of coconut milk or water when reheating to maintain creamy texture. Cover and microwave or steam until warmed through.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This coconut rice recipe is versatile, foolproof, and packed with tropical flavors. The combination of creamy coconut milk, zesty lime, and perfectly fluffy rice makes it a crowd-pleaser every time. W

Coconut Rice

Fluffy, creamy coconut rice brightened with lime zest and juice.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Side Dish

Cuisine: Asian, Tropical

Calories: 210

Ingredients

  

Coconut Rice

• 1 cup jasmine rice rinsed
• 1 cup coconut milk full-fat
• 1 cup water
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp sugar optional
• 1 lime zested and juiced
• 2 tsp coconut oil or unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp toasted coconut flakes for garnish
• 2 tbsp fresh herbs optional, chopped cilantro or mint

Equipment

• Medium Saucepan
• Measuring cups
• Measuring Spoons
• Fork

Method

 

1. Rinse jasmine rice under cold water until water runs clear.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine coconut milk, water, salt, sugar, and coconut oil. Stir to combine.
3. Add rinsed rice to the saucepan. Bring to a gentle boil over medium-high heat.
4. Reduce heat to low, cover with a tight-fitting lid, and simmer 15–18 minutes until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
5. Turn off heat and let rice sit covered for 10 minutes to steam.
6. Fluff rice with a fork. Stir in lime zest and juice.
7. Serve warm, garnished with toasted coconut flakes and optional fresh herbs.

Notes

For extra flavor, add a pandan leaf while cooking or a pinch of ground cinnamon for sweetness.