Coconut Basmati Rice

This easy coconut basmati rice recipe is so delicious and endlessly versatile that you'll find any excuse to make it instead of plain rice! Creamy coconut milk transforms ordinary rice into a rich, flavourful side dish with a hint of tropical flair. Plus, it's super easy to make - a true dump-and-go recipe.

4.99 from 85 votes

Print Recipe Save

Course: Main Course, Side Dish

Cuisine: International

Cook Time: 25

Total Time: 25

Servings: servings

Calories: 549kcal

Author: Maretha Corbett

Ingredients

▢ 500 millilitre basmati rice
▢ 400 millilitre full cream coconut milk
▢ 500 millilitre water
▢ 1 teaspoon salt
▢ 1 teaspoon sugar
▢ Optional - any additions of your choice like chopped coriander, fried onions, lime wedges, pineapple pieces and sliced spring onion

Instructions

Tip the dry rice into a colander and give it a good rinse under the tap. Allow the water to drain.
500 millilitre basmati rice
Add the rice along with the coconut milk, water, salt and sugar to a large lidded saucepan. Give it a stir.
400 millilitre full cream coconut milk, 500 millilitre water, 1 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon sugar
Over medium heat, bring the liquid to a boil and give it another quick stir to ensure there are no large lumps of coconut milk left. Place the lid on tightly and reduce the heat to low.
Let the rice cook undisturbed for 12 minutes. Remove it from the heat.
Allow the rice to rest for an additional 10 minutes without removing the lid.
Fluff up the rice. Serve immediately or add any additions you'd like to add, like chopped coriander, pineapple, crispy fried onions or pineapple
Optional - any additions of your choice like chopped coriander, fried onions, lime wedges, pineapple pieces and sliced spring onion

Notes

We love using a sturdy cast iron saucepan with a tight-fitting lid for cooking rice. If you have one, try it out - it makes a big difference in cooking rice evenly.
Alternatively, any pot with a snug-fitting lid will work.
When it comes to cooking rice, go for a saucepan that's a bit bigger than you think you'll need. It helps prevent the rice from boiling over and causing a mess on your stove.
Washing the rice may sound like extra work, but it significantly improves the final texture. It results in light, fluffy grains without any stickiness.
To achieve a smooth consistency, gently stir the rice as it starts to boil. This breaks up any lumps in the coconut milk, ensuring it blends seamlessly with the other ingredients as it melts.

Nutritional data disclaimer

Please keep in mind that the nutritional information provided below is calculated by a third party and we cannot guarantee the accuracy. We try our best to give you the most accurate information, but we do not take responsibility for errors that may be present. Also, the nutritional value of the recipe may change depending on the exact brands and products used. We recommend that you consult with a qualified healthcare professional or registered dietitian for personalised advice on your dietary needs.

Nutrition