Coconut lime rice is a delightful fusion of tropical flavors, blending the rich, creamy texture of coconut with the bright zest of lime. This unique dish is popular in regions where coconuts are abundant, such as Southeast Asia and the Caribbean, but it’s gaining popularity worldwide due to its refreshing taste and versatility.

Coconut Lime Rice

The base of this dish is usually jasmine or basmati rice, which naturally has a subtle fragrance. When cooked with coconut milk, the rice takes on a creamy consistency, providing a luxurious mouthfeel. The addition of lime zest and juice adds a citrusy tang that complements the coconut’s sweetness. This combination creates a harmonious balance of flavors, making coconut lime rice an excellent accompaniment to a variety of dishes.

Beyond its delicious taste, coconut lime rice is straightforward to prepare, requiring just a few ingredients. It can be served as a side dish with grilled fish, chicken, or even spicy curries, adding a refreshing contrast to bolder flavors. Additionally, it’s a great vegan option, providing a creamy texture without the need for dairy products. Whether you’re planning a summer barbecue or a cozy dinner, coconut lime rice offers a unique and exotic twist to your meal.

Kitchen Tools Needed

  • Saucepan with lid: To cook the rice and hold the liquid.
  • Measuring cups and spoons: For measuring rice, coconut milk, water, and other ingredients.
  • Wooden spoon or spatula: To stir the rice without damaging the saucepan.
  • Zester or fine grater: To zest the lime.
  • Juicer or reamer: To extract juice from the lime.
  • Strainer: To rinse the rice before cooking.
  • Cutting board and knife: For cutting the lime.
  • Mixing bowl: To combine the lime juice and zest.
  • Timer: To keep track of cooking time.

Ingredients for Coconut Lime Rice

Coconut Lime Rice
  • 1 cup jasmine or basmati rice
  • 1 cup coconut milk (unsweetened)
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 lime (for zest and juice)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or coconut oil (optional, for extra flavor)

Instructions

Rinsing the Rice

Start by rinsing 1 cup of jasmine or basmati rice under cold water using a strainer. Rinse until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. This helps prevent the rice from becoming too sticky.

Cooking the Rice

In a saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, 1 cup of coconut milk, and 1 cup of water. Add 1/2 teaspoon of salt for seasoning. Stir gently to ensure the rice doesn’t stick to the bottom. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low.

Simmering

Cover the saucepan with a lid and let the rice simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning, and avoid lifting the lid too often to maintain the steam.

Adding Lime Flavor

While the rice is cooking, zest the lime with a zester or fine grater, and then juice the lime with a juicer or reamer. Once the rice is fully cooked, turn off the heat and add the lime zest and lime juice. If using oil for extra flavor, add it at this stage. Gently fluff the rice with a wooden spoon or spatula to mix the lime flavor evenly throughout the rice.

Serving

After mixing the lime zest and juice, cover the saucepan again and let the rice rest for a few minutes to absorb the flavors. Serve the coconut lime rice hot, as a side dish with your favorite meals, or as a base for a tropical-inspired bowl. Enjoy!

Coconut Lime Rice

What to serve with?

  • Grilled Chicken or Fish: The bright citrusy flavors of coconut lime rice pair wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish, adding a tropical twist to your main dish.
  • Spicy Curries: Coconut lime rice serves as a cooling contrast to spicy curries, balancing heat with creamy and tangy notes.
  • Stir-Fried Vegetables: A mix of colorful stir-fried vegetables, like bell peppers, snap peas, and carrots, complements the tropical rice and adds a healthy, crunchy element to the meal.
  • Shrimp or Prawns: Sauteed or grilled shrimp, especially when marinated with garlic and lime, blend harmoniously with the creamy texture of coconut lime rice.
  • Asian-Inspired Dishes: Coconut lime rice is a great side dish for Asian-inspired meals, like sweet and sour chicken or beef and broccoli stir-fry.
  • Tofu or Tempeh: For a vegetarian option, serve with marinated tofu or tempeh, which soaks up the coconut lime flavor while adding a protein boost.
  • Fried Plantains: For a Caribbean touch, serve with fried plantains, adding a sweet contrast to the rice’s lime tanginess.
  • Pineapple Salsa: A vibrant pineapple salsa with cilantro and red onion complements the coconut lime rice, adding extra zest and sweetness to the plate.

Tips and Tricks

  • Choose the Right Rice: For the best results, use jasmine or basmati rice, which have a naturally fragrant aroma and a light, fluffy texture.
  • Rinse the Rice: Before cooking, rinse the rice under cold water to remove excess starch. This helps prevent clumping and ensures the rice is fluffy.
  • Use High-Quality Coconut Milk: Opt for unsweetened coconut milk with no added preservatives. It gives the rice a rich, creamy flavor without overpowering sweetness.
  • Adjust the Liquid Ratio: Depending on your preference, you can adjust the ratio of coconut milk to water. For creamier rice, increase the coconut milk; for a lighter texture, use more water.
  • Add Lime Zest for Extra Flavor: Zest the lime before juicing it to capture the aromatic oils. The zest adds a burst of citrus flavor that complements the coconut milk.
  • Simmer, Don’t Boil: Once the mixture reaches a boil, lower the heat to a simmer. This prevents the rice from burning and ensures even cooking.
  • Let It Rest: After cooking, let the rice rest for a few minutes with the lid on. This allows the flavors to meld and the rice to firm up slightly.
  • Experiment with Herbs: Try adding fresh herbs like cilantro or mint for additional flavor. These herbs complement the coconut and lime and add a refreshing touch.
  • Use a Wooden Spoon: When stirring or fluffing the rice, use a wooden spoon or spatula to avoid scratching the saucepan’s surface.
  • Serve Immediately: Coconut lime rice is best served hot, so plan to have your other dishes ready at the same time for optimal flavor and texture.
Coconut Lime Rice

Variations

  • Coconut Lime and Ginger Rice: Add freshly grated ginger while cooking the rice for an extra kick of warmth and spice.
  • Spicy Coconut Lime Rice: Incorporate diced jalapeños or chili flakes into the rice for a spicy variation that balances the creamy and citrusy flavors.
  • Coconut Lime Rice with Vegetables: Add mixed vegetables like peas, corn, and diced bell peppers to the rice for a colorful and nutritious twist.
  • Coconut Lime Cilantro Rice: Stir in chopped fresh cilantro after cooking for a burst of herbal freshness.
  • Coconut Lime Rice with Pineapple: Include diced pineapple chunks for a sweet contrast to the coconut and lime, creating a more tropical flavor profile.

Substitutions

  • Different Rice Types: If jasmine or basmati rice is unavailable, substitute with long-grain white rice or brown rice, though cooking times may vary.
  • Coconut Cream Instead of Coconut Milk: For a richer, creamier texture, use coconut cream instead of coconut milk, but reduce the quantity to avoid excessive thickness.
  • Lemon Instead of Lime: If lime isn’t available, you can use lemon zest and juice as a substitute. It provides a similar citrusy flavor, though slightly less sweet.
  • Olive Oil Instead of Coconut Oil: If you don’t have coconut oil, use olive oil for a different flavor profile that still adds a touch of richness.
  • Salt Alternatives: To reduce sodium, consider using low-sodium broth instead of salt for a different depth of flavor while keeping the rice savory.

Making Ahead

Coconut lime rice can be prepared in advance, making it a convenient dish for busy schedules or meal prep. To make it ahead of time, cook the rice as usual, then let it cool to room temperature. Once cooled, transfer the rice to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. If making ahead for a meal or event, it’s best to prepare it within 1-2 days to maintain optimal flavor and texture.

Storage

For proper storage, place the cooled coconut lime rice in an airtight container to prevent moisture loss and contamination. The rice can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. If you need to store it longer, you can freeze the rice in a freezer-safe container or bag, removing as much air as possible. Frozen rice can last for up to 3 months without significant loss of flavor.

Coconut Lime Rice

Reheating

  • Microwave: Place the desired amount of rice in a microwave-safe dish, and add a splash of water or coconut milk to prevent dryness. Cover with a microwave-safe lid or damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.
  • Stovetop: In a saucepan, add a small amount of coconut milk or water to prevent sticking. Gently heat over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the rice is warmed.
  • Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the rice in an oven-safe dish, cover with aluminum foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until hot.

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Frequently Asked Questions – FAQ’s

Jasmine or basmati rice is ideal for coconut lime rice due to their natural fragrance and light, fluffy texture. These rice varieties absorb the coconut milk and lime flavor without becoming too dense or sticky.

Yes, coconut lime rice can be made ahead of time. After cooking, let the rice cool to room temperature, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months for longer storage.

To reheat coconut lime rice, you can use a microwave, stovetop, or oven. For the microwave, add a splash of water or coconut milk to prevent drying, then heat in short bursts. On the stovetop, use low heat with a bit of coconut milk or water. For the oven, cover the rice with foil and heat at 350°F (175°C) until warm.

Coconut lime rice can be varied by adding different ingredients. You can include fresh ginger for a spicy kick, or stir in vegetables like peas or bell peppers for extra nutrition. Adding chopped cilantro or pineapple chunks gives additional flavor variations.

If lime is unavailable, you can substitute it with lemon. Lemon zest and juice offer a similar citrusy flavor, though slightly less sweet. This substitution can still provide the desired tangy balance to the coconut milk.

Coconut Lime Rice
Coconut Lime Rice
Print

Coconut Lime Rice

Recipe by JesseCourse: SidesCuisine: AsianDifficulty: Easy
Servings

4

servings
Prep time

10

minutes
Cooking time

20

minutes
Calories

260

kcal

Ingredients

  • 1 cup jasmine or basmati rice

  • 1 cup coconut milk (unsweetened)

  • 1 cup water

  • 1 lime (for zest and juice)

  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or coconut oil (optional, for extra flavor)

Directions

  • Start by rinsing 1 cup of jasmine or basmati rice under cold water using a strainer. Rinse until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. This helps prevent the rice from becoming too sticky.
  • In a saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, 1 cup of coconut milk, and 1 cup of water. Add 1/2 teaspoon of salt for seasoning. Stir gently to ensure the rice doesn’t stick to the bottom. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low.
  • Cover the saucepan with a lid and let the rice simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning, and avoid lifting the lid too often to maintain the steam.
  • While the rice is cooking, zest the lime with a zester or fine grater, and then juice the lime with a juicer or reamer. Once the rice is fully cooked, turn off the heat and add the lime zest and lime juice. If using oil for extra flavor, add it at this stage. Gently fluff the rice with a wooden spoon or spatula to mix the lime flavor evenly throughout the rice.
  • After mixing the lime zest and juice, cover the saucepan again and let the rice rest for a few minutes to absorb the flavors. Serve the coconut lime rice hot, as a side dish with your favorite meals, or as a base for a tropical-inspired bowl. Enjoy!

Conclusion

Coconut lime rice is a vibrant and delicious dish that combines the creaminess of coconut milk with the zesty tang of lime. Its versatility makes it suitable for various cuisines, from Asian to Caribbean, and its simplicity ensures that even novice cooks can create a flavorful accompaniment for a wide range of meals.

Whether served with grilled chicken, spicy curries, or vegetarian stir-fries, this dish adds a refreshing and tropical touch. Its make-ahead and reheating flexibility also make it an excellent choice for meal prep and busy weeknight dinners. Coconut lime rice is a delightful addition to any table.

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