Instant-Pot Coconut Rice

Fragrant and so fluffy, this Instant-Pot Coconut Rice pairs well with so many meals! It’s so easy to make, too!

I’ve always loved exploring foreign cuisines, so when a new Colombian restaurant opened in New York years ago, I immediately made reservations, eager to learn more about the country’s culture through its food. Sure, I had tasted (and loved!) Colombian empanadas, but that was the extent of my knowledge of the country’s cuisine. I wanted to try something new and truly surprise my taste buds with an unexpectedly delicious dish.

As I looked through the menu, my eye was instantly drawn to arroz con coco, or coconut rice, which came with fried fish and deep-fried plantains. The combination of sweet and savory intrigued me, so I quickly made my decision. When the dish arrived, though, I was a bit confused. The rice was golden brown, almost as though it had been toasted, and it was studded with plump raisins. I wondered if it was a cross between fried rice and rice pudding, as I took in its delicately sweet aroma. But the rice wasn’t sweet at all—just beautifully fragrant and a perfect match for the crispy fish.

I later learned that coconut rice is not only popular in Latin America, but also in Southeast Asia, where it is served with dishes like curries or grilled meat. Since there are so many delicious curries on FFF, I decided to try my hand at creating a recipe for the Southeast Asian version, which, unlike the one I tried at the restaurant, is white and doesn’t typically have raisins. Making it in the Instant Pot means it requires almost no effort and is practically foolproof. No wonder it has become a favorite at our house!

Is Instant-Pot Coconut Rice Healthy?

White rice doesn’t offer much nutritional value or fiber, but don’t swap it for regular brown rice just to make a healthier version. The aroma of jasmine rice is what makes this recipe unique! Fortunately, there’s a wholegrain version of jasmine rice with a slightly nuttier flavor that works well in this dish. You can also use low-fat coconut milk and low-sodium chicken or vegetable stock for a lighter or vegan/vegetarian option.

What is Jasmine Rice?

Jasmine rice is a long-grain variety of aromatic rice originating in Thailand and commonly used in Southeast Asian cuisine. The rice, somewhat similar to basmati, is slightly sticky when cooked, making it an ideal pairing for curries. Its flavor is delicate, with toasty, floral notes. The brown version contains more fiber and nutrients but doesn’t cook up quite as moist and fluffy as the white variety.

Serving Suggestions

Coconut rice pairs beautifully with many Asian dishes. Try it with stir-fries, such as this Spicy Thai Basil Chicken Stir-Fry or this Easy Low-Carb Keto Stir Fry. It’s practically made for fragrant curries, so give it a go with this comforting Pumpkin Curry or this succulent Slow-Cooker Jerk Chicken Curry.

Recipe