If you’re looking for a dish that’s simple yet bursting with flavor, this Coconut Jasmine Rice with Cilantro Recipe is an absolute game-changer. Imagine tender jasmine rice cooked in creamy coconut milk that adds a subtle sweetness and richness, perfectly complemented by the fresh, zesty brightness of chopped cilantro. It’s comfort with a tropical twist, making it an ideal side or even a satisfying base for a full meal. This recipe is so straightforward, yet the layers of flavor will leave you coming back for more every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are all pantry staples that come together in harmony to create a dish that is creamy, fragrant, and colorful. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in building the flavor and texture that make this recipe so special.
- Coconut milk (13.6 oz can): The star of the dish, lending a luscious creaminess and subtle sweetness that infuses the rice.
- Water (1 3/4 cups): Helps cook the rice perfectly while balancing the coconut milk’s richness.
- Kosher salt (1 3/4 teaspoons): Enhances all the flavors and brings out the natural sweetness of the coconut milk and jasmine rice.
- Jasmine rice (2 cups): A fragrant, slightly sticky rice that soaks up all the coconut goodness beautifully.
- Chopped cilantro (1/2 cup): Adds a fresh, herbal brightness to lighten and brighten the dish just before serving.
How to Make Coconut Jasmine Rice with Cilantro Recipe
Step 1: Combine Liquids and Rice
Start by pouring the coconut milk and water into a 3-quart pot, then sprinkle in the kosher salt. Add the jasmine rice right on top, making sure everything is evenly distributed. This mix is what will infuse the rice with its creamy, coconutty essence.
Step 2: Bring to a Boil
Place the pot on the stove with the lid on and turn the heat to high. Wait for the rice mixture to come to a boil. This step ensures the rice starts absorbing the flavorful liquid quickly and evenly.
Step 3: Simmer Gently
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, keeping the lid on tightly. There’s no need to stir here – letting the rice simmer undisturbed allows it to cook evenly and soak up all those rich coconut flavors perfectly.
Step 4: Cook Until Tender
Let the rice simmer on low for about 15 minutes, or until the liquid is fully absorbed and the rice is nice and tender. Patience is key here to develop that ideal texture where the rice is soft but not mushy.
Step 5: Let it Rest
Turn off the heat but leave the pot on the burner with the lid still on. Let it sit for a couple more minutes – this resting period lets any remaining moisture evaporate and brings the rice to the perfect dryness you want.
Step 6: Add Cilantro and Stir
Remove the lid and gently fold in the fresh chopped cilantro. This final touch brightens the creamy rice with its herbaceous, fresh flavor, giving the dish a delightful pop of color and aroma.
Step 7: Serve Hot and Enjoy
Your Coconut Jasmine Rice with Cilantro Recipe is now ready to be enjoyed! Fluff it lightly with a fork and serve while warm. This yields about 4-5 cups of deliciously fragrant rice, perfect for sharing.
How to Serve Coconut Jasmine Rice with Cilantro Recipe
Garnishes
To make your dish even more tempting, consider sprinkling additional chopped cilantro on top just before serving. You might also add a gentle squeeze of lime for a touch of zesty brightness that pairs beautifully with the coconut flavor.
Side Dishes
This rice is incredibly versatile as a side. It pairs wonderfully with tropical-inspired dishes like grilled shrimp, teriyaki chicken, or even a spicy curry. The creamy coconut jasmine rice offers a soothing balance to bold, spicy main courses.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive presentation, serve the rice in small coconut shells or colorful bowls to highlight the tropical feel. You can also mix in some toasted coconut flakes or chopped green onions on top to add texture and a little crunch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store the rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep fresh for about 3 to 4 days, making it an excellent make-ahead option for busy weeknights.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked Coconut Jasmine Rice with Cilantro Recipe in freezer-safe containers or bags. When properly stored, it maintains its flavor and texture for up to 2 months. Just thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
For the best reheating results, sprinkle a little water over the rice and cover it while microwaving or warming on the stovetop. This will restore its moisture and prevent it from drying out, bringing back the creamy coconut texture you love.
FAQs
Can I use regular white rice instead of jasmine rice?
While jasmine rice is preferred for its fragrance and texture in this recipe, you can substitute with regular white rice. Just note the cooking times and liquid ratios might differ slightly, so adjust accordingly for the best results.
Is it better to use full-fat or lite coconut milk?
Both full-fat and lite coconut milk work well here. Full-fat coconut milk will give you a richer, creamier rice, while lite coconut milk offers a lighter option without sacrificing too much on flavor.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
This recipe is naturally vegan since it uses plant-based coconut milk and no animal products. It’s a fantastic vegan-friendly side dish packed with flavor and nutrition.
How do I get the rice to be fluffy and not sticky?
The key to fluffy rice here is using the correct water-to-rice ratio and letting it rest with the lid on after cooking. Avoid stirring during cooking to keep the grains intact.
Can I add other herbs or spices?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment by adding herbs like mint or basil for a fresh twist, or spices such as a pinch of turmeric or ginger to complement the coconut flavor in creative ways.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so comforting and vibrant about making this Coconut Jasmine Rice with Cilantro Recipe that it quickly becomes a beloved staple in your culinary repertoire. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, its simplicity, bright flavors, and tropical charm make it a truly delightful dish to prepare and savor. Give it a try, and I promise it’ll brighten your table.
Print
Coconut Jasmine Rice with Cilantro Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings (about 4-5 cups cooked rice)
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southeast Asian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Coconut Jasmine Rice with Cilantro is a fragrant and flavorful side dish that combines creamy coconut milk with aromatic jasmine rice and fresh cilantro. Perfectly tender and subtly sweet, this dish is easy to make and pairs beautifully with a variety of main courses.
Ingredients
Rice and Liquid
- 1 (13.6-oz) can coconut milk (lite or regular)
- 1 3/4 cups water
- 1 3/4 teaspoons kosher salt
- 2 cups jasmine rice
Herbs
- 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: Add coconut milk, water, kosher salt, and jasmine rice to a 3-quart pot, ensuring everything is well mixed.
- Bring to Boil: Put the lid on the pot and turn the heat to high to bring the mixture to a boiling point.
- Simmer Rice: When the rice starts to boil, reduce the heat to low. Keep the lid on and avoid stirring to allow even cooking.
- Cook Rice: Let the rice simmer on low heat for 15 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
- Rest Rice: Turn off the heat but keep the pot on the burner with the lid on for a couple more minutes to let the rice reach your preferred dryness.
- Add Cilantro: Stir the chopped cilantro into the cooked rice to infuse fresh herb flavor.
- Serve: Serve the coconut jasmine rice hot as a delightful side dish. This recipe yields about 4-5 cups of cooked rice.
Notes
- Use either lite or regular coconut milk based on your preference for richness.
- Do not open the lid during simmering to ensure proper steaming of the rice.
- The resting period after cooking helps the rice finish absorbing moisture and enhances texture.
- Adjust salt according to taste or dietary needs.
- For a nutty flavor, you can lightly toast the rice in the pot before adding liquids.
