Coconut Rice

Creamy, Flavorful & Absolutely Irresistible!

There’s something magical about the aroma of coconut rice simmering on the stove—the rich, nutty fragrance of fresh coconut milk infused into every grain of rice, paired with smoky catfish and a medley of vibrant spices. If you’ve been searching for a coconut rice recipe that delivers bold flavors, the perfect texture, and a touch of home-cooked comfort, you’ve come to the right place.

This is not just any coconut rice—this is the best coconut rice you’ll ever make. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll never go back to bland, flavorless versions again!

Why You’ll Love This Coconut Rice

Authentic Coconut Flavor – Made with freshly blended coconut milk for a rich, creamy taste.
Perfectly Balanced Spices – A hint of ginger, garlic, and aromatic herbs make every bite unforgettable.
Easy & Foolproof – Simple steps, minimal prep, and guaranteed deliciousness.
Restaurant-Quality at Home – This recipe rivals any coconut rice you’ve ever tasted.

The Secret to Perfect Coconut Rice

The secret to truly amazing coconut rice is fresh coconut milk. Store-bought versions may be convenient, but they can’t compare to the depth of flavor you get from freshly extracted coconut milk. Plus, making your own is surprisingly easy (I’ll show you how)!

Another key element? Lightly frying the rice before adding the liquid. This enhances the nutty aroma and prevents the rice from turning mushy—because no one likes soggy rice!

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Fresh Coconut Milk

2 whole coconuts
4 cups warm water

For the Rice

3 cups long-grain rice
3 tablespoons coconut oil
1 teaspoon grated ginger
1 teaspoon grated garlic
1 medium onion (chopped)
1 cup blended mixed peppers (yellow peppers, Scotch bonnet, red bell pepper, paprika pepper)
1 smoked catfish (cleaned and deboned)
1 teaspoon thyme
2 seasoning cubes
2 bay leaves
1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
4 cups coconut milk
½ cup water (optional, for adjusting texture)
2 tablespoons chopped green onions (for garnish)

For the Air-Fried Chicken (Optional)

6 pieces chicken thighs
1 teaspoon suya spice
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon white pepper
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon seasoning cube
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon grated ginger

Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions

Step 1: Extract the Coconut Milk

Crack open the coconuts using a hammer or heavy-duty knife.

Remove the coconut meat, rinse, and cut into small pieces.
Blend with warm water until smooth.
Strain through a cheesecloth or fine sieve to extract the coconut milk.

Pro Tip: Using warm water helps release more milk from the coconut, giving you a richer flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Pepper Mix

Remove the stems and seeds from the peppers.
Chop roughly and blend using a food processor or blender (pulse mode).

Grate the garlic and ginger, then set aside.

Step 3: Build the Flavor Base

Heat coconut oil in a large pot (I use this brand of coconut oil works like magic).

Add grated garlic and ginger, frying for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Stir in the smoked catfish and let it cook for 1 minute to release its smoky aroma.
Add the blended pepper mix, thyme, seasoning cubes, and bay leaves.
Let it simmer for about 5 minutes until thickened.

Pro Tip: Frying the fish with the spices adds an unbeatable depth of flavor!

Step 4: Prep & Cook the Rice

Rinse the rice thoroughly until the water runs clear.
Add the rice into the pot and stir-fry for about 5 minutes—this helps absorb the flavors.
Pour in the fresh coconut milk and stir to combine.

Ensure the liquid level is just above the rice.
Cover and let it simmer on medium heat for about 15 minutes.
If the rice is still firm, add a little more water or coconut milk and let it steam.(alternatively you can use this brand of coconut milk it works just perfectly)

Adjust seasoning with a pinch of Adobo seasoning or salt, if needed.
Cover with foil to trap steam and allow the rice to cook through.

Step 5: Air-Fry the Chicken (Optional but Highly Recommended!)

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
Marinate the chicken with suya spice, paprika, white pepper, black pepper, onion powder, seasoning cube, garlic powder, and ginger.
Place the chicken in the air fryer and cook for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Step 6: Finishing Touches

Once the rice is fully cooked, remove the bay leaves and gently fluff the rice.
Sprinkle chopped green onions for a burst of color and freshness.
Serve hot with air-fried chicken and your favorite drink—mine is a cold glass of Fanta or freshly squeezed juice!

Pro Tips for the Best Coconut Rice

Use Fresh Coconut Milk: Store-bought versions lack the rich, creamy flavor of homemade coconut milk.
Toast the Rice: Lightly frying the rice before adding liquid enhances its texture and prevents it from becoming mushy.
Steam with Foil: Covering with foil traps steam, allowing the rice to cook evenly.
Balance the Flavors: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed—coconut rice should be flavorful but not overpowering.
Pair it Right: This dish is best served with grilled chicken, fried plantains, or even a spicy shrimp stir-fry!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use store-bought coconut milk?
A: Yes, but fresh coconut milk delivers a much richer flavor. If using store-bought, choose an unsweetened full-fatvariety.

Q: Why is my coconut rice mushy?
A: Too much liquid! Be sure to measure correctly, and add liquid gradually if needed.

Q: Can I make coconut rice without fish?
A: Absolutely! You can substitute with shrimp, beef, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.

Q: How do I store and reheat coconut rice?
A: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove with a splash of coconut milk or water.

Q: What drink pairs well with coconut rice?
A: A cold glass of orange juice, Fanta, or freshly squeezed pineapple juice is perfect!

Final Thoughts

This coconut rice recipe is everything you need in a comfort meal—rich, flavorful, and effortlessly delicious. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a special occasion, or just because you’re craving something amazing, this recipe never fails.

Now, I want to hear from you! Have you tried this recipe? Let me know in the comments how it turned out. And if you loved it, don’t forget to rate and subscribe for more mouthwatering recipes.