Coconut rice is a fragrant and flavorful dish that pairs perfectly with a variety of main courses. Whether you’re serving it with spicy curries, grilled meats, or as a standalone dish, coconut rice is sure to impress.
Coconut rice is easy-to-make and it brings a taste of the tropics to your table. Here’s a step-by-step guide to preparing this delightful dish.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups of rice
- 1 can (400ml) of coconut milk
- 1 1/2 cups of water
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1 tablespoon of sugar (optional)
- 2 tablespoons of shredded coconut (optional, for garnish)
- Fresh parsley (or your preferred spices, for garnish)
- Rinse the Rice: Start by rinsing the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming too sticky.
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium-sized pot, combine the rinsed rice, coconut milk, water, salt, and sugar (if using). Stir well to ensure the ingredients are evenly mixed.
- Cook the Rice: Place the pot over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Once it starts boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid, and let it simmer for about 18-20 minutes. Avoid lifting the lid during this time to ensure the rice cooks evenly.
- Rest the Rice: After the cooking time is up, remove the pot from the heat and let it sit, covered, for an additional 10 minutes. This allows the rice to finish steaming and absorb any remaining liquid.
- Fluff and Serve: Use a fork to gently fluff the rice, separating the grains. If desired, sprinkle shredded coconut and fresh cilantro or parsley on top for added flavor and presentation.
- Enjoy: Serve the coconut rice warm as a side dish or as a base for your favorite main courses. It pairs wonderfully with dishes like grilled chicken, seafood, or spiced yellow beans.
Additional Tips
- Use Full-Fat Coconut Milk: For the richest flavor, opt for full-fat coconut milk rather than light versions.
- Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a slightly sweeter rice, you can increase the amount of sugar or add a touch of honey.
- Add Aromatics: For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a few slices of ginger or a couple of crushed garlic cloves to the pot while cooking.
Give this recipe a try and enjoy the creamy, aromatic goodness!
Click here to purchase a meal pack for coconut rice with chicken curry to start you off.
