How to Make Coconut Rice with Coconut Cream Easily

The smell of coconut rice in the kitchen is hard to beat. It’s warm, sweet, and evokes a tropical island. People all over the world love this creamy, fragrant rice, from Southeast Asia to the Caribbean and Africa.

When you make it with coconut cream, the rice is soft, rich, and full of flavour. Every bite is smooth and relaxing, making it perfect to pair with your favorite dishes.

🥥 What Is Coconut Rice?

Coconut rice is a soft, mildly sweet rice dish cooked with coconut cream or coconut milk, water and a pinch of salt. The result? Fluffy, fragrant rice with a subtle, nutty flavour that pairs well with curries, grilled meats, and even fruits.

People everywhere enjoy this dish, from Thai-style Khao Maprao to Caribbean Coconut Rice and Peas. Each region adds its own twist, but the creamy coconut flavor always stands out.

Ingredient	Quantity	Notes
Jasmine rice (or basmati)	1 ½ cups	Rinse to remove extra starch
Coconut cream	1 cup	Use full-fat, unsweetened for the best taste
Water	1 cup	Adjust depending on rice type
Salt	½ teaspoon	Balances sweetness
Sugar (optional)	1 teaspoon	Brings out coconut flavour
Pandan or bay leaf (optional)	1 leaf	Adds aroma
Coconut oil or butter	1 tablespoon	Adds shine and flavour

🍚 Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Rinse Your Rice

Rinse your rice under cold water several times until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch so your rice doesn’t stick together.

Step 2: Mix Everything

In a pot or rice cooker, combine:

• Rinsed rice
• Coconut cream
• Water
• Salt
• Sugar (if using)
• Pandan or bay leaf (optional for aroma)

Please give it a light stir so everything mixes evenly.

Step 3: Cook the Rice

On the stove:

1. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
2. Lower the heat, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 15 to 18 minutes.
3. Don’t lift the lid while cooking. The steam inside is what makes the rice turn out just right!

In a rice cooker:
Just use the regular white rice setting. Easy and foolproof.

Step 4: Let It Rest

Once cooked, keep the lid on and let the rice rest for 10 minutes. This step helps absorb the remaining steam, keeping the rice soft and fluffy.

Step 5: Add the Finishing Touch

Fluff the rice with a fork and mix in a spoon of coconut oil or butter. It gives the rice a shiny look and boosts the coconut aroma.

🌿 Tips for Perfect Coconut Rice

• Use thick coconut cream because it gives the rice a silky, rich texture.
• Don’t stir while cooking; it can make the rice mushy.
• If using basmati rice, add a bit more water since it absorbs more liquid.
• Cook on low heat to prevent the bottom from burning.
• Sprinkle toasted shredded coconut on top before serving for extra crunch.

🍴 Serving Ideas

Coconut rice is so versatile. Here’s how you can enjoy it:

Savory Pairings

• Thai Green Curry
• Jerk Chicken or Grilled Fish
• Tofu Satay or Peanut Sauce
• Teriyaki Vegetables

Sweet Pairings

• Fresh Mango with Honey
• Pineapple Salsa
• Banana Fritters
• Coconut Pudding or Custard

🌍 Coconut Rice Around the World

Region	Variation	Description
Thailand	Khao Maprao	Jasmine rice with pandan aroma
Caribbean	Coconut Rice and Peas	Rice cooked with red beans and coconut milk
India	Thengai Sadam	Fried with curry leaves, mustard seeds, and cashews
Nigeria	Coconut Jollof	Tomato-based rice cooked with coconut cream
Indonesia	Nasi Lemak	Served with sambal, egg, and anchovies

🔬 The Magic of Coconut Cream in Coconut Rice

Coconut cream is full of healthy fats that coat each grain of rice, giving it a silky texture. It locks in moisture and helps keep the rice separate, so your coconut rice turns out creamy but not too sticky.

🕒 The Lowdown on Storing & Reheating Coconut Rice

To store leftovers:
Throw them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Easy peasy.

To freeze the rice:
Divide it into portions and place them in freezer-safe bags. It’ll keep for up to a month.

To reheat:

• Microwave: Add a splash of water, cover, and heat for 2–3 minutes. Job done.\
• Stovetop: Gently reheat it with a bit of coconut milk, and you’ll get that lovely creamy texture back.

🥗 Nutrition (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	280 kcal
Carbohydrates	38g
Fat	12g
Protein	4g
Fiber	2g
Sodium	200mg

Coconut rice provides a balanced mix of carbohydrates and healthy fats, keeping you full and energised.

⚠️ Common Pitfalls to Watch Out For

1. Don’t use sweetened coconut cream, or your rice will end up too sweet.
2. Rinse the rice properly before cooking, or it’ll be sticky.
3. Don’t overdo the water, or you’ll end up with soggy rice.
4. No high heat, please, or it’ll just burn.
5. Don’t skip rest time, or that perfect fluff will be gone.

⭐ Tips for Making Amazing Coconut Rice

• If you can find fresh coconut cream, use it. It’s lighter and tastes even better.
• Throw in some lime zest for a bit of a zing.
• Add toasted cashews or sesame seeds for an extra crunch.
• To keep it vegan and gluten-free, use pure coconut cream.
• Try lemongrass or ginger slices for a subtle but pleasant aroma.

Conclusion

Coconut rice made with coconut cream is more than just a side dish. Every bite brings a taste of the tropics. Pair it with spicy curries, grilled meats, or juicy fruits for a dish that’s hard to resist.

Once you crack the correct ratios and timing, you’ll find yourself whipping it up again and again, and honestly, one bowl is never enough!