Coconut rice is a delicious vegan and gluten-free side that compliments a wide range of entrees. I prepare it by cooking aromatic rice in rich and creamy coconut milk, in one of two cooking methods - Instant Pot or Stove.
It’s a wonderful accompaniment to plenty of Thai, South Indian, and Caribbean dishes. Plus, the dump-and-start method of the Instant Pot means no watching, waiting, or guessing when the rice is done. Check out more quick and easy Instant Pot Rice Recipes. Let’s get started!
What is Coconut Rice?
Coconut rice is simply long-grain white rice that has been cooked in coconut milk rather than water. Coconut milk adds a creamy and naturally sweet flavor to the rice, which elevates everyday rice into an elegant and flavorful side dish.
Ingredients - Notes & Substitutions
Coconut milk rice requires just a few pantry staples. You will need: Long Grain White Rice: Jasmine rice and basmati rice are both aromatic rice varieties that can be used interchangeably in this dish. Jasmine rice just needs a good rinse before using, but for Basmati, rinse well then soak it for 15 minutes. If you’d prefer brown rice, follow the cooking times for Instant Pot Brown Rice. Coconut Milk: Use unsweetened, full-fat, pure coconut milk from the can. Chaokoh and Thai Kitchen are trusted brands. Water: An extra bit of water is needed to balance the richness of the coconut milk and provide moisture. It also prevents that unwanted ‘burn’ message. Salt: To enhance all those coco-nutty flavors. Scroll to the recipe card for a detailed list of ingredients and quantities.
How to Make Coconut Rice
Instant pot coconut rice can be prepared in one of three ways - directly in the main pot, using the pot-in-pot method, or with the rice button. Here are the instructions on how to do each one.
Step 1: Rinse and/or Soak Rice
Rinse the rice in a mesh strainer, until water runs clear, about 2-3 times. If you’re using Basmati, soak it for 15 minutes. Soaking makes the rice fluffy.
Step 2: Coconut Rice in Instant Pot
Method 1: Cooking in the Main Pot Combine rinsed and drained rice, coconut milk, and salt in the Instant Pot. Close the lid and set the valve to sealing position. Press Manual or Pressure Cook, for 6 minutes at high pressure. Wait 10 minutes before releasing the pressure manually (NPR 10), after which turn the knob to ‘Venting’ position. Open the lid after the pin drops. Gently fluff rice with a fork. Method 2: Cooking Rice Pot-in-Pot (PIP) Combine rinsed and drained rice, coconut milk, and salt in an oven-safe container. Pour 1 cup of water into the inner pot of the Instant Pot. Place a trivet and put the rice container on top. Close the lid and set the valve to sealing mode. Cook at Manual or Pressure Cook (High) for 6 minutes. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before opening the pot (NPR 10). Open lid. Fluff rice with a fork. Method 3: Using the RICE Button You can also cook rice using the RICE button, which defaults to cooking the rice at low pressure for 12 minutes. Follow the same NPR times and process.
Alternative Method: Stovetop Method for Coconut Milk Rice
Place a saucepan over high heat. Add 1 cup of rice, 1 cup of water, 1 cup of coconut milk, and salt, and bring the liquid to a boil. Add rinsed and drained rice, stir, and reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover the pot tightly with the lid and cook for 10 minutes. After 10 minutes, turn off the heat. Open the lid and using a fork, gently fluff the rice. Put the lid back on and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
What to Eat with Coconut Rice
Coconut rice is a versatile side dish that adds a lovely, sweet canvas to any meal. Here are some dishes that pair well with coconut rice in my home:
Coconut Lime Chicken Thai Green Curry Thai Panang Curry Jamaican Jerk Chicken Thai Massaman Curry Thai Red Curry
How to Store
Leftover coconut rice will keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Freezer Instructions: Place in meal prep freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge. When ready to reheat, add a splash of water or coconut milk. Warm through in the microwave in 20-30 second increments or place in a small saucepan, cover, and set on low for 5-10 minutes.
Recipe Tips & Notes:
Soak rice: I highly recommend soaking the basmati rice, if you have the time. The grains will be fluffier and more tender. Follow the ratios as written. The rice-to-coconut milk-to-water ratio provides rice that has just the right texture. Not too hard and not too mushy. Coconut milk choice: For the best flavor, use full-fat coconut milk that is unsweetened. Stovetop recipe: If making this on the stove, remember to add a cup of water in addition to the coconut milk.
More Instant Pot Rice Recipes
These are all part of the Rice & Grains recipe collection:
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