Jamaican Garlic Coconut Rice Bowl

Name: Jamaican Garlic Coconut Rice Bowl
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups jasmine rice; 1 can (400ml) coconut milk; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1/2 tsp dried thyme

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

When I first tried making Jamaican Garlic Coconut Rice Bowl, I was captivated by the blend of flavors and aromas that filled my kitchen. This dish combines the creaminess of coconut milk with the robust kick of garlic, creating a unique and delicious experience. I love how simple ingredients come together to create a meal that’s not only satisfying but also brings a hint of the tropics to my dinner table. It's a recipe that quickly became a favorite in our home, especially paired with grilled chicken or vegetables.

Created by

Stella Cameron

Last updated on 2026-01-14T02:28:08.969Z

Making this Jamaican Garlic Coconut Rice Bowl was a delightful journey for me. The rich and creamy coconut milk paired with fresh garlic not only elevates the rice but also provides a comforting essence that’s hard to resist. I experimented with different herbs and spices, and I found that a hint of thyme enhances the flavor profile quite well. It's a true one-pot wonder!

Another tip I discovered is to let the rice rest for a few minutes after cooking. This allows it to absorb all the flavors fully, ensuring each bite is packed with the savory richness of the coconut. Trust me, this simple step makes a significant difference!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        The creamy texture that balances perfectly with the savory garlic.
Fast and easy to make, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
A tropical flavor experience right from your kitchen.

      

Perfecting Your Rice

Choosing the right type of rice is essential for achieving the desired texture in your Jamaican Garlic Coconut Rice Bowl. Jasmine rice, which is fragrant and slightly sticky when cooked, complements the creaminess of the coconut milk beautifully. If you don't have jasmine rice on hand, you can use basmati rice as a substitute, though the flavor will differ slightly. Remember to adjust the cooking liquid since basmati may require a bit less liquid than jasmine.

Rinsing the rice before cooking is a crucial step. This process not only removes excess starch but also ensures that your rice cooks evenly. Rinse the rice until the water runs clear; this may take 2-3 minutes under cold running water. If you skip this step, your rice may clump together, resulting in a less appealing texture.

Cooking Techniques

When sautéing the garlic, be mindful of the heat level. Cooking over medium heat allows the garlic to release its aromatic oils without burning, which typically happens if the heat is too high. Aim for a light golden color—this indicates that the garlic is ready to flavor the rice without introducing bitterness. If you happen to smell a slight burning odor, reduce the heat immediately and add in the rice to prevent any unpleasant flavors from developing.

Simmering the rice bowl covered allows the moisture to circulate, effectively steaming the rice to tender perfection. Keeping the lid on is crucial as it traps steam, which is needed to fully cook the rice. If your rice ends up too wet, it may mean your pot lid was not sealed tightly, or it cooked too long. Adjusting the liquid next time may help if you encounter this issue.

Ingredients

For the Rice Bowl

2 cups jasmine rice
1 can (400ml) coconut milk
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups vegetable broth
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tbsp olive oil
1/2 tsp dried thyme

Optional: Chopped green onions for garnish.

Instructions

Rinse the Rice

Start by rinsing the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps to remove excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming sticky.

Sauté Garlic

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.

Cook the Rice

Add the rinsed rice, coconut milk, vegetable broth, salt, pepper, and thyme to the pot. Stir well to combine and bring to a boil.

Simmer

Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.

Rest and Fluff

Remove the pot from the heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Then fluff the rice with a fork before serving.

Serve warm, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.

Pro Tips

Feel free to add protein like chicken or shrimp for a complete meal, and adjust seasonings to your taste.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This rice bowl stores well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To maintain the best texture, allow the rice to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Reheat in the microwave with a splash of coconut milk or broth to restore moisture, stirring midway through to ensure even heating. For longer storage, consider freezing the rice. Place it in a freezer-safe container or bag, where it can last for up to 2 months.

If you're planning ahead, you can cook a larger batch of rice and use it throughout the week. This dish pairs excellently with various proteins and vegetables, allowing you to mix and match for different meals. Prepare a double batch of the rice and serve it with grilled shrimp one night and stir-fried vegetables the next for easy meal prep.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This Jamaican Garlic Coconut Rice Bowl is versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of proteins. If you're looking for a vegetarian option, consider serving it with grilled zucchini and bell peppers tossed in a hint of soy sauce. For meat lovers, grilled chicken or shrimp adds a lovely contrast to the creamy rice. A sprinkle of fresh cilantro or sliced green onions on top can enhance presentation and add a fresh flavor boost.

Feel free to experiment with the base flavor of the rice. Adding a squeeze of lime juice right before serving can brighten the dish significantly. For heat, incorporate diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper during the cooking process. Each tweak opens up a new flavor profile, making leftovers exciting and different every time you serve them.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of jasmine rice?

Yes, but keep in mind that brown rice may require a longer cooking time and more liquid.

→ Is this recipe suitable for vegan diets?

Absolutely! Just ensure your vegetable broth is vegan-friendly.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it in advance and simply reheat it before serving.

→ What can I serve with this rice bowl?

It pairs well with grilled vegetables, sauced meats, or can be enjoyed on its own.