How To Make Fluffy Basmati Coconut White Rice On Stovetop

ByNkechi Ajaeroh, MPH
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Here’s a super easy way to make the fluffiest and most fragrant basmati coconut white rice. This recipe requires only a few ingredients – raw basmati rice, coconut milk, coconut oil, bay leaves, salt and pepper. You can serve this simple coconut rice in any sauce of choice, including tomato stew, goat curry, shrimp curry, salmon coconut sauce, etc.
A simple recipe of basmati white rice cooked in coconut milk is the best side dish as it compliments every main!

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Here's a super easy way to make the fluffiest and most fragrant basmati coconut white rice. This recipe requires only a few ingredients - raw basmati rice, coconut milk, coconut oil, bay leaves, salt and pepper. You can serve this simple coconut rice in any sauce of choice, including tomato stew, goat curry, shrimp curry, salmon coconut sauce, etc. A simple recipe of basmati white rice cooked in coconut milk is the best side dish as it compliments every main!

Wave Bye to Mushy Coconut Basmati Rice!

This simple recipe for basmati rice cooked in coconut milk on the stovetop is fluffy, fragrant, coconutty, tasty, and not mushy! The cooked grains are excellently separated just like the ones served at the restaurant. My basmati coconut white rice recipe is something we all love and adore. It’s the perfect side dish to go with your dinner tonight. I’m not sure why I am only sharing this recipe now, as this is on repeat in my house every week!

I literally made some yesterday to go with my shrimp curry. Also, last week, I made it when I hosted a ladies’ brunch for a few of my friends. For the brunch, I served it with my salmon in creamy coconut lime sauce. Having said all that, this is my tested and trusted basmati white rice recipe; it never fails. Hopefully, you can follow my tips and make the best white basmati rice you will ever eat! The best part about making coconut basmati white rice at home is that it comes together so quickly. It is so impressive, as everyone loves it!

One of the most common complaints I hear from people when they make basmati rice is that it comes out mushy. Well, you can say bye to that, wave bye to mushy basmati white rice! This recipe ensures you’ll have that fluffy texture you get when you go out to eat at restaurants! You can serve this simple coconut rice in any sauce, including beef short ribs, Nigerian tomato stew, goat curry and salmon coconut-lime sauce. Or shrimp curry, as I did below.

See How Easy It is to Cook This Basmati Coconut White Rice!

Where Did Basmati Rice Originate From?

This treasured long-grain rice may date back to 2500 BCE! That’s a long time ago! It comes from the Himalayan foothills, now known as Northwest India and Pakistan.

What Is the Difference Between Basmati Rice and Long Grain Rice?

If you look at basmati rice and long grain rice side by side, you can see the difference in the grains. Basmati rice grains are long and skinny. They also have a more fragrant aroma that makes them a match for coconutty flavors. The coconut flavor in this dish is not overpowering, making it complement many different main dishes on your dinner table.

Here's a super easy way to make the fluffiest and most fragrant basmati coconut white rice. This recipe requires only a few ingredients - raw basmati rice, coconut milk, coconut oil, bay leaves, salt and pepper. You can serve this simple coconut rice in any sauce of choice, including tomato stew, goat curry, shrimp curry, salmon coconut sauce, etc. A simple recipe of basmati white rice cooked in coconut milk is the best side dish as it compliments every main!

Why You Will Love Basmati Coconut White Rice

  • It’s the jazzed-up side dish you need! 
  • This is the best-tasting white rice! However, if you want plain white rice without coconut milk, see this recipe.
  • It’s easy to make with any meal in about 30 minutes. Make to check out my YouTube channel to see how I made this and other recipes.
  • No more mushy rice that ruins your dinner; perfectly separated light and fluffy grains!
  • It truly goes with so many main dishes that you can make it with just about anything.
  • Everyone loves it, and it’s much better than plain old white rice. 
  • Super easy to cook on the stovetop. Any cook can cook this, even young kids and beginners. 
Here's a super easy way to make the fluffiest and most fragrant basmati coconut white rice. This recipe requires only a few ingredients - raw basmati rice, coconut milk, coconut oil, bay leaves, salt and pepper. You can serve this simple coconut rice in any sauce of choice, including tomato stew, goat curry, shrimp curry, salmon coconut sauce, etc. A simple recipe of basmati white rice cooked in coconut milk is the best side dish as it compliments every main!

Ingredients for Basmati Coconut White Rice

*NOTE: optional ingredients are not pictured below

Raw Basmati rice, Coconut milk (I typically use Thai Kitchen organic unsweetened). Water, Coconut oil, Bay leaves, Salt and Knorr Bouillon Seasoning Powder (optional, recommended). Spring onions or cilantro (optional; for garnishing) and Lime (optional; for garnishing).

How to Make Restaurant-Style Fluffy Basmati White Rice at Home (Step-by-Step):

This simple and delicious rice side dish comes out fluffy and fabulous. Here’s how to make my fluffy basmati coconut white rice!

  1. Measure Your Liquids

    This recipe requires 5 cups of liquids. You’ll need a 13.6-ounce can of coconut milk (I use the Thai Kitchen brand) plus 3 ½ cups of water. Put these liquids together in a saucepan on your stove over medium heat.Here's a super easy way to make the fluffiest and most fragrant basmati coconut white rice. This recipe requires only a few ingredients - raw basmati rice, coconut milk, coconut oil, bay leaves, salt and pepper. You can serve this simple coconut rice in any sauce of choice, including tomato stew, goat curry, shrimp curry, salmon coconut sauce, etc. A simple recipe of basmati white rice cooked in coconut milk is the best side dish as it compliments every main!

  2. Add Seasonings

    Add the coconut oil, bay leaves, salt, and Knorr, cover, and bring to a simmer.Here's a super easy way to make the fluffiest and most fragrant basmati coconut white rice. This recipe requires only a few ingredients - raw basmati rice, coconut milk, coconut oil, bay leaves, salt and pepper. You can serve this simple coconut rice in any sauce of choice, including tomato stew, goat curry, shrimp curry, salmon coconut sauce, etc. A simple recipe of basmati white rice cooked in coconut milk is the best side dish as it compliments every main!

  3. Wash the Rice

    While the liquid is heating on the stove, wash the basmati rice. Start with warm water and rinse with cold water. Wash your rice up to 6 to 7 times until it is no longer cloudy and becomes transparent. Then, place the washed rice in a colander to drain.Here's a super easy way to make the fluffiest and most fragrant basmati coconut white rice. This recipe requires only a few ingredients - raw basmati rice, coconut milk, coconut oil, bay leaves, salt and pepper. You can serve this simple coconut rice in any sauce of choice, including tomato stew, goat curry, shrimp curry, salmon coconut sauce, etc. A simple recipe of basmati white rice cooked in coconut milk is the best side dish as it compliments every main!

  4. Cook the Rice

    Once the liquid simmers, stir, taste, and adjust the flavors if necessary. Then, add the rice to the liquid and reduce the heat to medium. Cook your basmati rice for 20 to 25 minutes, or until all the water is absorbed and the rice is soft and fluffy.Here's a super easy way to make the fluffiest and most fragrant basmati coconut white rice. This recipe requires only a few ingredients - raw basmati rice, coconut milk, coconut oil, bay leaves, salt and pepper. You can serve this simple coconut rice in any sauce of choice, including tomato stew, goat curry, shrimp curry, salmon coconut sauce, etc. A simple recipe of basmati white rice cooked in coconut milk is the best side dish as it compliments every main!

  5. Garnish and Serve

    Garnish with cilantro or fresh spring onions, squeeze some fresh lime if desired, and then serve with any main dish! We love serving basmati coconut white rice with Marry Me Chicken, Salmon, Shrimp curry, etc.Here's a super easy way to make the fluffiest and most fragrant basmati coconut white rice. This recipe requires only a few ingredients - raw basmati rice, coconut milk, coconut oil, bay leaves, salt and pepper. You can serve this simple coconut rice in any sauce of choice, including tomato stew, goat curry, shrimp curry, salmon coconut sauce, etc. A simple recipe of basmati white rice cooked in coconut milk is the best side dish as it compliments every main!

Tips and Tricks for Basmati Coconut White Rice

  • Make sure you use unsweetened coconut milk for this recipe.
  • Be sure not to add too much salt when adding seasonings to your basmati coconut white rice because the sauce from your main dish may be salty enough to balance it out. You don’t want to have everything taste too salty.
  • Definitely wash your rice – do not skip that step!
  • Do not skip the addition of coconut oil either. The coconut oil is incredibly important because it helps to ensure that the rice is fluffy and separated! This way, your rice isn’t mushy!
  • Add a little more water while cooking if you think the rice is not quite as soft as you would prefer. Remember that mushy rice is never a great thing, and you should aim for fluffy!
Here's a super easy way to make the fluffiest and most fragrant basmati coconut white rice. This recipe requires only a few ingredients - raw basmati rice, coconut milk, coconut oil, bay leaves, salt and pepper. You can serve this simple coconut rice in any sauce of choice, including tomato stew, goat curry, shrimp curry, salmon coconut sauce, etc. A simple recipe of basmati white rice cooked in coconut milk is the best side dish as it compliments every main!

What Do You Serve with Coconut Basmati White Rice?

Mouthwatering and finger-licking good braised beef short ribs are flavorful, tasty, juicy, and fall off the bone. I cooked these English – style short ribs without wine in the oven until they were very tender and juicy! Nothing makes more sense rather than braising well-seasoned and well-seared beef short ribs in sauce at low temperature for a long time. This way, they infuse and release tons of flavors, becoming very tasty, tender, juicy, and satisfying.

How to Store Leftovers

This rice is excellent to use for your meal prep for work or serve with tomorrow night’s dinner too. It keeps well in the fridge for up to 5 days when you store it in an airtight container. You can even freeze it too, though that’s best done in a zippered freezer bag with all the air squeezed out. This way, it should keep for up to 6 months, but do aim to use it before then for the best results.

Basmati Rice Variations and Substitutions

  • For a spicy spin, add chopped jalapenos as garnish.
  • No lime? You can use fresh lemon instead. Or simply leave as is.
  • Parsley makes a great garnish if you don’t like cilantro and don’t want a spicy feel to this side.
  • This recipe is vegan but you can cook it in chicken broth if you don’t care about that.
  • Don’t want to use coconut milk? Vegetable broth works too! Unfortunately, the taste and texture may differ.
Here's a super easy way to make the fluffiest and most fragrant basmati coconut white rice. This recipe requires only a few ingredients - raw basmati rice, coconut milk, coconut oil, bay leaves, salt and pepper. You can serve this simple coconut rice in any sauce of choice, including tomato stew, goat curry, shrimp curry, salmon coconut sauce, etc. A simple recipe of basmati white rice cooked in coconut milk is the best side dish as it compliments every main!

Basmati Rice FAQS:

What is the Secret to Fluffy Rice?

I have two secrets for fluffy rice – the first is to make sure you thoroughly wash the rice repeatedly until the water runs clear. Wash it with warm water and then finish with cold water. My next secret for fluffy rice is to use coconut oil.

Why is My Basmati Rice Not Fluffy?

Rinsing the rice is key, and so is measuring your liquids the right way. Make sure to use coconut oil. Follow my recipe, and you will master the art of fluffy basmati rice.

Is Basmati Rice Indian or Persian?

Basmati rice is considered Indian since it originated in the Himalayan foothills in the area now known as Northwest India/Pakistan.

What is So Special About Basmati Rice?

Basmati rice has a fantastic texture, aroma, and flavor, making it much better than ordinary white rice.

How To Jazz Up Basmati Rice?

Cook it using my recipe for perfect fluffy and separate grains! The gentle flavors won’t overpower your main dish, yet they will make everyone excited to eat every grain.

Should Basmati Rice be Rinsed?

Absolutely! See my recipe for the steps for rinsing the rice before cooking it!

Here's a super easy way to make the fluffiest and most fragrant basmati coconut white rice. This recipe requires only a few ingredients - raw basmati rice, coconut milk, coconut oil, bay leaves, salt and pepper. You can serve this simple coconut rice in any sauce of choice, including tomato stew, goat curry, shrimp curry, salmon coconut sauce, etc. A simple recipe of basmati white rice cooked in coconut milk is the best side dish as it compliments every main!

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Here's a super easy way to make the fluffiest and most fragrant basmati coconut white rice. This recipe requires only a few ingredients - raw basmati rice, coconut milk, coconut oil, bay leaves, salt and pepper. You can serve this simple coconut rice in any sauce of choice, including tomato stew, goat curry, shrimp curry, salmon coconut sauce, etc. A simple recipe of basmati white rice cooked in coconut milk is the best side dish as it compliments every main!

How To Make Fluffy Basmati Coconut White Rice On Stovetop

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 5 from 5 reviews
  • Author: Nkechi Ajaeroh, MPH
  • Prep Time: 5
  • Cook Time: 30
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Indian
  • Diet: Gluten Free
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Description

Here’s a super easy way to make the fluffiest and most fragrant basmati coconut white rice. This recipe requires only a few ingredients – raw basmati rice, coconut milk, coconut oil, bay leaves, salt and pepper. You can serve this simple coconut rice in any sauce of choice, including tomato stew, goat curry, shrimp curry, salmon coconut sauce, etc.  A simple recipe of basmati white rice cooked in coconut milk is the best side dish as it compliments every main!

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups Raw Basmati
  • 1 can (13.6 oz) coconut milk (I typically use Thai Kitchen organic unsweetened)
  • 3½ cups of water (add a little if needed)
  • 1 & ½ tablespoons coconut oil
  • 3 Bay leaves 
  • 1–1½ teaspoon(s) of salt
  • 1 teaspoon Knorr Bouillon Seasoning Powder (optional, recommended)
  • A handful of Spring onions or cilantro (optional; for garnishing)
  • 1 Whole Lime (optional; for garnishing)This recipe requires 5 cups of liquids. You’ll need a 13.6-ounce can of coconut milk (I use the Thai Kitchen brand) plus 3 ½ cups of water. Put these liquids together in a saucepan on your stove over medium heat.

Instructions

  1. Measure Your Liquids. This recipe requires 5 cups of liquids. You’ll need a 13.6-ounce can of coconut milk (I use the Thai Kitchen brand) plus 3 ½ cups of water. Put these liquids together in a saucepan on your stove over medium heat. Here's a super easy way to make the fluffiest and most fragrant basmati coconut white rice. This recipe requires only a few ingredients - raw basmati rice, coconut milk, coconut oil, bay leaves, salt and pepper. You can serve this simple coconut rice in any sauce of choice, including tomato stew, goat curry, shrimp curry, salmon coconut sauce, etc. A simple recipe of basmati white rice cooked in coconut milk is the best side dish as it compliments every main!
  2. Add Seasonings. Add the coconut oil, bay leaves, salt, and Knorr, cover, and bring to a simmer. Here's a super easy way to make the fluffiest and most fragrant basmati coconut white rice. This recipe requires only a few ingredients - raw basmati rice, coconut milk, coconut oil, bay leaves, salt and pepper. You can serve this simple coconut rice in any sauce of choice, including tomato stew, goat curry, shrimp curry, salmon coconut sauce, etc. A simple recipe of basmati white rice cooked in coconut milk is the best side dish as it compliments every main!
  3. Wash the Rice. While the liquid is heating on the stove, wash the basmati rice. Start with warm water and rinse with cold water. Wash your rice up to 6 to 7 times until it is no longer cloudy and becomes transparent. Then, place the washed rice in a colander to drain. Here's a super easy way to make the fluffiest and most fragrant basmati coconut white rice. This recipe requires only a few ingredients - raw basmati rice, coconut milk, coconut oil, bay leaves, salt and pepper. You can serve this simple coconut rice in any sauce of choice, including tomato stew, goat curry, shrimp curry, salmon coconut sauce, etc. A simple recipe of basmati white rice cooked in coconut milk is the best side dish as it compliments every main!
  4. Cook the Rice. Once the liquid simmers, stir, taste, and adjust the flavors if necessary. Then, add the rice to the liquid and reduce the heat to medium. Cook your basmati rice for 25 to 30 minutes, or until all the water is absorbed and the rice is soft and fluffy. Here's a super easy way to make the fluffiest and most fragrant basmati coconut white rice. This recipe requires only a few ingredients - raw basmati rice, coconut milk, coconut oil, bay leaves, salt and pepper. You can serve this simple coconut rice in any sauce of choice, including tomato stew, goat curry, shrimp curry, salmon coconut sauce, etc. A simple recipe of basmati white rice cooked in coconut milk is the best side dish as it compliments every main!
  5. Garnish and Serve. Garnish with cilantro or fresh spring onions, squeeze some fresh lime if desired, and then serve with any main dish! We love serving basmati coconut white rice with Marry Me Chicken, Salmon, Shrimp curry, etc. Here's a super easy way to make the fluffiest and most fragrant basmati coconut white rice. This recipe requires only a few ingredients - raw basmati rice, coconut milk, coconut oil, bay leaves, salt and pepper. You can serve this simple coconut rice in any sauce of choice, including tomato stew, goat curry, shrimp curry, salmon coconut sauce, etc. A simple recipe of basmati white rice cooked in coconut milk is the best side dish as it compliments every main!

Notes

Make sure you use unsweetened coconut milk for this recipe.

Be sure not to add too much salt when adding seasonings to your basmati coconut white rice because the sauce from your main dish may be salty enough to balance it out. You don’t want to have everything taste too salty.

Definitely wash your rice – do not skip that step!

Do not skip the addition of coconut oil either. The coconut oil is incredibly important because it helps to ensure that the rice is fluffy and separated! This way, your rice isn’t mushy!

Add a little more water while cooking if you think the rice is not quite as soft as you would prefer. Remember that mushy rice is never a great thing, and you should aim for fluffy!

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More Rice Recipes To Try:

Insanely delicious party-style Nigerian basmati Jollof rice is the only Jollof rice recipe you need. The fusion of basmati rice with tomatoes, peppers, onions, garlic, curry, thyme, bay leaves, and other herbs/spices makes this party Jollof absolutely flavorful and tasty! The best part about making basmati Jollof rice is that it takes no time to cook. Authentic crowd-pleasing party-style Jollof rice recipe! #Jollofrice #Africanfood #Nigerianfood #PartyJollofrice #NigerianJollofrice #BasmatiJollofrice #Jollof

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Here's a super easy way to make the fluffiest and most fragrant basmati coconut white rice. This recipe requires only a few ingredients - raw basmati rice, coconut milk, coconut oil, bay leaves, salt and pepper. You can serve this simple coconut rice in any sauce of choice, including tomato stew, goat curry, shrimp curry, salmon coconut sauce, etc. A simple recipe of basmati white rice cooked in coconut milk is the best side dish as it compliments every main!

THANKS FOR STOPPING BY! Stay well, safe and keep living your life to the fullest!

Nkechi Ajaeroh's blog nkechiajaeroh.com for healthy food recipes, and healthy living. tips.

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I'm Nkechi Ajaeroh, a 2x International Best Selling Author, Food Enthusiast, and Public Health expert with a Master's in Public Health. Originally from Nigeria, I now reside in the United States. My passion is crafting heart-healthy Nigerian meals with an American twist. My blog explores the joy of food and life, sharing my personal and professional journey and helping you navigate your healthy lifestyle. I am dedicated to impacting lives through storytelling and inspiring others to achieve their personal goals. LEARN MORE ABOUT ME

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10 Comments

  1. This coconut rice was fantastic! Loved it with dinner last night.



    Reply

  2. Love the flavor that the coconut milk adds to the rice. We will definitely be making this again. Thanks for sharing.



    Reply

  3. This is so good! I followed the directions, and I made the fluffiest rice I’ve ever made in my life!



    Reply

  4. I made this rice to go with our dinner last night and it was delicious! Perfectly fluffy and easy to make!



    Reply

  5. This looks amazing and such a treat! Thank you!



    Reply