If you’ve never made coconut rice at home before, you’re in for a treat because this recipe is about to win you over instantly. I still remember the first time I tasted coconut rice at a family gathering… the aroma alone had everyone hovering around the kitchen, waiting for their turn. One bite, and I knew this dish was going straight into my regular recipe lineup.

The best part? It’s unbelievably simple to make, yet every spoonful is loaded with that rich, fragrant coconut flavor we all love.

Alright, let’s dive in!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MoDE9R0ZL4c

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Prep Time 15 mins

Cook Time 25 mins

Total Time 40 mins

Cooking Method: Sauteing, Simmering

Cuisine: South Indian

Courses: Lunch, Rice / Pasta / Grains

Difficulty: Beginner

Servings: 4

Estimated Cost: 1

Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Dietary: Gluten Free, High-Fiber, Vegetarian

Description

Coconut rice is a fragrant and flavorful dish made by cooking rice in coconut milk instead of water, often with the addition of aromatic ingredients like garlic, ginger, and onion. Popular in many tropical regions, especially Southeast Asia, the Caribbean, and parts of Africa, this dish features a rich, creamy texture and a subtle sweetness from the coconut milk. Some variations include the addition of spices such as cinnamon or bay leaves, while others might stir in toasted coconut flakes for extra depth. Coconut rice pairs beautifully with spicy curries, grilled meats, or seafood, making it a versatile and comforting side dish or main course.

Ingredients

1 cup basmati rice
1 cup grated coconut
1 tbsp oil
1 tsp ghee
1/2 tsp urad dal
1/2 tsp chana dal
1/2 tsp cumin seeds
1/2 tsp mustard seeds
3 red chilli
1 handfull of curry leaves
1/4 tsp asafoetida powder
1 tsp ginger (chopped)
2 green chilli
1 tbsp roasted peanuts
1 tbsp cashew nuts

Instructions

Prep Work

1
Rinse basmati rice
Rinse the basmati rice thoroughly under water.
2
Grate the Coconut
Grate the coconut, so it’s ready to go when you need it.
3
Chop the Aromatics
Chop the ginger and green chilies to have them on hand.

Method

4
Wash the Rice
Start by washing the basmati rice. Get it nice and clean.
5
Cook the Rice
In a wide pot, add enough water to cook the rice, then add some salt and basmati rice. Cook until the rice is done.
6
Strain and Cool the Rice
Once the rice is cooked, strain it out and set it aside to cool down for a minute.
7
Heat Oil and Ghee
Take a pan and heat some oil and ghee together.
8
Temper the Spices
Add urad dal, channa dal, cumin seeds, mustard seeds, red chilies, and curry leaves. Sauté well.
9
Add Nuts and Aromatics
As mustard seeds begin to pop, add asafoetida powder, ginger, green chilies, peanuts, and cashews. Roast until golden brown.
10
Add Grated Coconut
Add salt to taste and grated coconut (keep some aside for later). Keep the flame low to prevent burning.
11
Mix in Cooked Rice
Add the cooked rice and gently stir to combine well with the coconut mixture.
12
Final Seasoning
Check seasoning like salt, spice etc. and finish by adding grated coconut.Mix it well
13
Serve the Coconut Rice
Let the rice warm through, and it's ready to serve!