Coconut Milk Rice

What is Coconut Milk Rice?

Coconut Milk Rice is a delicious rice side dish made of coconut milk instead of water as it’s traditionally done. It’s an incredibly popular dish in many parts of Asia, including South East Asia like Thailand, and even South Asia like India. 

What Exactly is Coconut Milk Anyway?

Coconut milk is derived from the white flesh of mature brown coconuts, the fruit of the coconut tree. The milk has a thick consistency and a luxurious, creamy texture.

This milk is commonly used in Thai and other Southeast Asian cuisines. It is also popular in Hawaii, India, and some South American and Caribbean countries.

Coconut Milk Rice Ingredients

• Rice: As I mentioned above, you can use any kind of rice you like the most, but I’m using basmati rice in this recipe since it has Indian origins and is not a Thai dish per se. But feel free to use whichever one you already have in your pantry.
• Coconut milk: We’ll be needing full-fat coconut milk in this recipe. Try to get your hands on the ones sold in cans, not cartons. The ones sold in cartons tend to be quite watered-down and lack the flavor, fat percentage, aroma, and natural sweetness we need for this recipe. Shake your can well to homogenize the cream before using it for the recipe. 
• Water: We’ll also need some water if you’re going for the stovetop method in this recipe. 
• Sugar: To enhance the flavor, we’ll add regular white sugar to our rice dish. Trust me; it really takes it to the next level.
• Salt: We’ll also need salt to balance out all the flavors and make this recipe versatile enough to have with just about any dish or cuisine you like! I’ve added a teaspoon, but you can go for a pinch of salt if you’re reducing sodium. 

How to Make Coconut Milk Rice Step by Step

This recipe can be made using either the stovetop or the pressure cooker method. Here’s how to make Coconut Milk Rice step by step using each of these two methods: 

How to Make Coconut Milk Rice on the Stovetop

• In a pot or pan, add all the ingredients except the rice. Bring the liquid to a boil on medium heat. 
• Add the rice and stir. Wait for it to come to a boil again. Reduce heat to the lowest and cover tightly, letting the rice simmer. 
• After 16 minutes, uncover and gently mix the rice from the sides. Cover and cook for another 12 to 14 minutes (depending on the basmati rice you are using, you may not need the additional 12 to 14 minutes, and it will be fully cooked within 16 minutes). Turn off the heat and let the rice cool while still covering until the liquid is absorbed. Using a fork, fluff the rice gently.
• Your delicious Coconut Milk Rice is ready to be served. Serve it with warm creamy spinach lentils.

How to Make Coconut Milk Rice with a Pressure Cooker

You can make a pressure cooker or instant pot coconut rice quite easily! This recipe will work with traditional or electric pressure cooker brands, including Instant Pots or Ninja Foodi. Here’s how to do it step by step:

• You don’t have to soak the rice using a pressure cooker, just wash it and drain it.
• In a pressure cooker, add all the ingredients, close the lid, and pressure cook on high until you hear a whistle.
• After hearing the ONE whistle, reduce the heat to low and let it cook for 30 seconds, then turn off the heat. Allow the pressure to be released naturally; this will cook the rice evenly.
• Your delicious Coconut Milk Rice is ready to be served. 

How to Store Leftover Rice

This delicious coconut rice can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. I don’t recommend freezing it since it’ll alter the flavor and texture of the rice.

Looking for more ideas? Check out my best rice recipes collection for easy and flavorful dishes.

Please Review and Rate

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