Coconut brown rice

This coconut brown rice recipe features brown rice cooked in water and coconut oil, imparting a subtle coconut flavor that enhances its nuttiness. It's a simple yet nutritious side dish that pairs well with a variety of meals.

19 Dec 2025
Cook time 35 min
Prep time 0 min

Ingredients:

1/2 cup brown rice
1 tbsp coconut oil
1/2 tsp salt
1 cup water
Coconut brown rice

Coconut brown rice is a healthy and flavorful twist on traditional brown rice. This simple recipe uses coconut oil to lend a rich and subtle coconut flavor, which complements the nuttiness of brown rice perfectly. With just a few ingredients, you can elevate your side dish game and provide a nutritious accompaniment to a variety of main courses.

Instructions:

1. Rinse the Rice:
- Place the 1/2 cup of brown rice in a fine-mesh sieve.
- Rinse the rice under cold running water for about 30 seconds. This helps remove excess starch and prevents the rice from being too sticky.
2. Boil the Water:
- In a medium-sized saucepan, pour in the 1 cup of water.
- Add the 1/2 teaspoon of salt to the water.
- Bring the water to a boil over high heat.
3. Add the Rice:
- Once the water is boiling, add the rinsed brown rice to the saucepan.
- Stir briefly to distribute the rice evenly in the water.
4. Simmer the Rice:
- Reduce the heat to low and cover the saucepan with a lid.
- Let the rice simmer for about 40-45 minutes, or until all the water has been absorbed and the rice is tender.
- Check occasionally to ensure it is simmering and not boiling too vigorously.
5. Add the Coconut Oil:
- Once the rice is cooked and tender, remove the saucepan from the heat.
- Add the 1 tablespoon of coconut oil to the rice.
- Stir gently to combine, ensuring the coconut oil melts and coats all the grains of rice evenly.
6. Fluff and Serve:
- Let the rice sit covered for an additional 5 minutes.
- Fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains.

Cooking brown rice with coconut and salt is an easy and delicious way to boost the flavor and texture of this nutritious staple. With a few techniques and tips, you can prepare perfectly cooked brown rice every time, making it a versatile addition to your meal repertoire.

Coconut brown rice FAQ:

How long does it take to cook coconut brown rice?

Coconut brown rice takes about 40-45 minutes to simmer after bringing the water to a boil. Overall, including preparation, it can be ready in under an hour.

What can I use instead of coconut oil?

You can substitute coconut oil with other oils like olive oil or vegetable oil for a different flavor, though the coconut taste will be lost. Butter is also a good alternative for added richness.

How do I know when the rice is done cooking?

The rice is done when all the water has been absorbed and the grains are tender. You can check by lifting the lid and tasting a few grains for doneness.

Can I store leftover coconut brown rice?

Yes, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to restore moisture.

What pan size is best for cooking coconut brown rice?

A medium-sized saucepan is ideal for cooking 1/2 cup of brown rice. Choose one that holds at least 4 cups to allow ample space for the rice to expand.

Tips:

- Rinse the brown rice thoroughly under cold water to remove any excess starch, ensuring the grains cook evenly and remain separate.

- For added flavor, consider toasting the brown rice in the coconut oil for a few minutes before adding water, which will enhance the nutty flavor of the rice.

- Use a tight-fitting lid during cooking to trap steam and cook the rice evenly.

- Let the rice sit covered for about 10 minutes after cooking; this will allow it to absorb any remaining steam and become fluffier.

- Fluff the rice gently with a fork before serving to separate the grains and incorporate any remaining coconut oil, giving it a light and airy texture.

Nutrition per serving

2 Servings
Calories 230kcal
Protein 3.49g
Carbohydrates 36g
Fiber 1.66g
Sugar 0.31g
Fat 8g

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