I’m absolutely serious when I say that this coconut rice is truly one of the most incredible dishes I’ve ever tasted. From the moment I take the first bite, it’s as if my body instantly melts with delight. Its richness, savory flavor, and carbiness make it an insanely delicious treat. The best part? It’s surprisingly easy to prepare, whether you prefer using a stovetop or a rice cooker. With minimal effort, you can whip up this unbelievably tasty savory coconut rice.
What’s in Coconut Rice?
Prepare to be amazed by the simplicity of this astounding rice dish. The recipe calls for cooking long-grain white jasmine rice in a blend of coconut milk and water, enhanced with a touch of minced garlic and salt to add richness. That’s all it takes to create this seemingly ordinary yet irresistibly flavorful dish. Brace yourself for an unforgettable culinary experience with every bite.
What Kind of Coconut Milk?
To prepare this recipe, make sure to use canned coconut milk rather than the one designed as a dairy milk substitute, as it is too watery. Both full-fat and light versions of canned coconut milk work well for this recipe. Full-fat coconut milk results in an incredibly creamy rice due to its higher fat content, whereas lite coconut milk offers a slightly milder coconut taste and a lighter, fluffier texture for the rice, as it contains less fat to weigh it down.
What is Jasmine Rice?
Jasmine rice, a highly aromatic rice variety cultivated in Southeast Asia, adds an exceptional flavor to this recipe. If possible, make sure to include jasmine rice as it truly enhances the dish. With its increasing popularity in the United States, jasmine rice is now readily available in most grocery stores. For the best value, look for large 5 lb. bags on the bottom shelf of the rice aisle. Although jasmine rice is pricier than regular white rice, it is definitely worth the investment. Additionally, its long shelf life ensures that it will not go to waste. In many recipes, you can substitute plain white rice with long grain jasmine rice to intensify the taste.
Can I Use a Rice Cooker?
Certainly! You have the option to prepare this coconut rice using a rice cooker instead of a pot on the stovetop, following the instructions provided. Just combine all the ingredients in the rice cooker, and start the cooking process!
What to Serve with Coconut Rice
This incredibly tasty rice is the perfect accompaniment to any Asian or tropical-inspired meal. It can be served as a base for Honey Sriracha Tofu, Teriyaki Chicken, Baked Ginger Salmon, or Sweet Chili Chicken Stir Fry Bowls. Alternatively, it can be enjoyed as a side dish alongside Chicken Lettuce Wraps!
How to Make Coconut Rice – Step By Step Photos
Begin by rinsing 1.5 cups of long grain white jasmine rice, ensuring that any excess water is drained. Transfer the rinsed rice to a pot and combine it with one minced clove of garlic and ¾ tsp of salt.
Include a 13.5oz. can of coconut milk into the saucepot along with the rice.
Increase the water content by one cup. Gently mix the rice. Cover the pot with a lid and set the heat to high until the liquid starts to boil vigorously. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the rice simmer for 15 minutes. Ensure that the pot continues to simmer and refrain from stirring or uncovering the lid during this time.
Once the rice has simmered for 15 minutes, take the pot off the heat and allow the rice to rest for an extra 5 minutes without opening the lid. Finally, once the rice has finished resting, you can lift the lid.
Use a fork to fluff the rice before serving.
Although I added sliced green onion and toasted coconut as garnishes, they are not essential for this rice to taste incredible! It is truly mind-blowing even without them!
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