There’s something about the soft pop of rice simmering in coconut milk that instantly takes me back to summer nights in Maui, barefoot in the kitchen with the windows cracked open. This Coconut Rice Instant Pot or Stove Top version gives you that creamy, lightly sweet flavor in under 30 minutes. It’s showing up on dinner tables everywhere right now because it’s easy, comforting, and just a little bit fancy.
This dish uses just a few ingredients: white jasmine or Thai white rice, unsweetened coconut milk, and a pinch of salt. That’s it. It turns out so fragrant and tender, almost like your favorite takeout side but smoother and fluffier. Whether you serve it under grilled shrimp or next to sticky chicken, it adds that extra something. Recipes for white rice rarely get this dreamy, and the technique works beautifully with pantry staples.
I first made a version of this back in 2016 after a trip to Oahu where a local café served coconut rice with everything even eggs. I remember my wife asking, “Why doesn’t our rice taste this good?” A little digging (and a lot of test rounds) taught me to rinse the rice well and let it sit covered after cooking. Locks in the creaminess without turning to mush. After years behind the camera and in the test kitchen, this is one of those keepers I always come back to.
Thomas Baker
Coconut Rice Instant Pot or Stove Top Easy Delicious Guide
Discover how to make perfectly fluffy Coconut Rice Instant Pot or Stove Top style using jasmine rice and creamy coconut milk. This easy Recipe For Coconut Rice pairs wonderfully with Hawaiian White Rice or Thai White Rice dishes, making it a versatile side for Indian, Jamaican, and Thai cuisines. Enjoy a simple yet flavorful Coconut Rice Recipe Easy to prepare for any meal.
Wash the jasmine rice thoroughly using a fine mesh strainer until the water runs clear.
Pour the coconut milk and water into a medium saucepan and place over high heat.
Bring the mixture up to a boil.
Add salt and the rinsed rice, then reduce to a simmer.
Cover the pot, lower the heat, and cook gently for 15 to 20 minutes until all the liquid is absorbed.
Take the pot off the heat while still covered and allow the rice to rest for 15 minutes.
Lift the lid and gently fluff the rice with a fork before serving.
Serve right away or keep the rice stored in an airtight container inside the fridge for up to a week.
Notes
For Instant Pot preparation, use 2 cups jasmine rice, 13.5 ounces coconut milk, ½ cup water, and ½ teaspoon salt. Rinse rice then combine all ingredients in the Instant Pot and seal the valve. Cook at high pressure for 3 minutes, then allow a natural pressure release for 10 minutes before releasing any remaining pressure. Fluff before serving. To enhance coconut flavor, swap coconut milk for coconut cream or water for coconut water. Adding 1-2 tablespoons sugar gives a sweeter taste. Always use long-grain white rice to keep the texture fluffy, avoiding short or medium grain to prevent stickiness.
Why You’ll Love This Coconut Rice Recipe
This Coconut Rice Instant Pot or Stove Top recipe is a game-changer for cozy, practical meals. Here’s why it stands out:
Beginner-Friendly: Whether you’re using the Instant Pot or stovetop, the steps are simple and easy to follow.
Fluffy and Fragrant: The coconut milk infuses each grain of jasmine rice with just the right amount of creaminess and subtle sweetness.
Versatile: Pairs beautifully with Thai curries, grilled shrimp, or even fried eggs for breakfast.
A Crowd-Pleaser: This is one of those dishes that makes every meal feel a little more special.
Key Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. You’ll need just a few pantry staples to create something magical.
Jasmine Rice: This long-grain rice is light, fluffy, and perfect for soaking up that coconut flavor. Avoid short or medium grains for the best texture.
Full-Fat Coconut Milk: Opt for the full-fat version for richer results it makes all the difference in creating soft, luscious rice.
Water or Coconut Water: You can use plain water, but swapping in coconut water deepens the flavor without being overwhelming.
Salt: Just a touch enhances all the natural flavors.
Pro Tip: To boost the coconut flavor, you can substitute coconut cream for coconut milk or add a pinch of sugar for sweet white rice recipes!
Instant Pot vs. Stove Top: Step-by-Step
You’ve got options with this recipe, and both methods yield fantastic results. Let’s break it down:
Instant Pot
Rinse 2 cups of jasmine rice until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch, ensuring fluffy rice.
Add the rinsed rice, 13.5 ounces of full-fat coconut milk, ½ cup of water, and ½ teaspoon of salt to your Instant Pot.
Set the pressure to high for 3 minutes. Make sure the steam release valve is set to “sealing.”
Once the cooking time ends, allow a natural pressure release for 10 minutes. Then carefully release any remaining pressure.
Fluff the rice with a fork and serve!
Stove Top
Rinse 2 cups of jasmine rice until the water runs clear and set aside.
In a medium saucepan, bring 13.5 ounces of coconut milk and 1½ cups of water to a boil over high heat.
Add ½ teaspoon salt and the rinsed rice. Stir, then reduce to low heat and cover with a lid.
Simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until all the liquid is absorbed.
Let the pot sit, covered, for 15 minutes off the heat. Fluff with a fork before serving.
Note: Timing may vary slightly depending on your appliance or stovetop heat, so keep an eye on it!
Method
Cook Time
Rest Time
Total Time
Instant Pot
3 minutes
10 minutes
13 minutes
Stove Top
15–20 minutes
15 minutes
30–35 minutes
Serving and Storage Tips
Serving: This dish pairs beautifully with Thai white rice dishes, coconut curries, grilled kebabs, or teriyaki chicken. It’s also fantastic with roasted vegetables for a vegetarian option.
Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 7 days. It reheats wonderfully in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of water.
Pro Tip: Use leftover rice to make quick fried rice, or serve it chilled as a base for tropical rice salads.
Common Troubleshooting and Tweaks
Rice Too Sticky: If your rice turns gummy, it may be due to skipping the rinse step or cooking too long. Make sure to rinse until the water runs clear, and fluff with a fork after resting.
Mild Coconut Flavor: If you want more coconut oomph, swap in coconut cream or use coconut water instead of plain water.
Too Sweet or Rich: For a lighter version, use light coconut milk and reduce any added sugar.
Reminder: Always stick with jasmine or Thai white rice for the fluffiest, most fragrant results. Other rice varieties may result in mushy coconut rice dishes.
Expert Says
Cooking coconut rice in an Instant Pot or stove top allows the rice to absorb the rich coconut milk thoroughly, enhancing its creamy texture. The controlled heat and pressure of an Instant Pot help retain nutrients better while reducing cooking time compared to traditional methods, making this recipe both convenient and nutritious.
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Mastering the Creamy Coconut Rice Instant Pot Way
I went through several rounds of tweaking to get this Coconut Rice Instant Pot recipe just right. Early attempts were too sticky or underflavored, but after learning to balance the liquid and coconut milk, it turns out creamy, fragrant, and foolproofa comforting side dish that’s become a family favorite.
FAQs ( Coconut Rice Instant Pot or Stove Top )
How do I prevent coconut rice from burning?
To avoid burning, use a nonstick pot or add a small amount of water before cooking. Stir the rice once after adding coconut milk and keep heat low on the stove. In an Instant Pot, make sure to follow pressure settings exactly and allow natural pressure release to prevent sticking.
Can I use canned coconut milk for this recipe?
Yes, canned coconut milk works best for a rich flavor and creamy texture. Shake the can well or stir it to mix the cream and water before measuring. Avoid light coconut milk as it can make the rice less creamy and dense.
What rice is best for cooking with coconut milk?
Long-grain white rice or Thai white rice are excellent choices as they stay fluffy and absorb coconut flavors well. Avoid short-grain or sticky rice to keep the dish light. Rinsing the rice before cooking helps prevent clumping.
How do I store leftover coconut rice?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently with a splash of water or broth to restore moisture. Coconut rice freezes well; thaw in the fridge before warming for best results.
Can I make this dish vegetarian or vegan?
This recipe is naturally vegetarian and vegan when using plant-based coconut milk. Just avoid adding any animal-based broths or seasonings. It’s a delicious and creamy side dish suitable for all diets.
Conclusion
In just about 30 minutes, this coconut rice Instant Pot or stove top recipe gives you fluffy, fragrant rice that feels like a hug from your kitchen. You’ll love how the subtle sweetness and creamy texture make every bite warm and comforting.
Try swapping water for coconut water to deepen the flavor or sprinkle toasted shredded coconut on top for a fun twist. Leftovers reheat beautifullyjust add a splash of water and fluff it up. A little trick I picked up from my aunt’s kitchen for keeping rice dreamy anytime.
Would love to see your takes! Did your family have a rice dish that smelled like home? Save this for your next meal and share photos or storiesit’s these cozy moments that make cooking homemade meals so special.
