Prepare to transport your taste buds to the sun-soaked shores of Puerto Rico with this irresistible coconut rice recipe that will transform your ordinary dinner into a Caribbean culinary adventure! Imagine a creamy, fragrant rice dish that's so luxurious, it'll make you feel like you're dining in a beachside restaurant, without ever leaving your kitchen. This Puerto Rican Vienna Coconut Rice is not just a side dish – it's a flavor-packed journey that promises to elevate your meals from mundane to magnificent!
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Puerto Rican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup jasmine rice
- 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup raisins (optional)
Instructions
- Rinse the jasmine rice thoroughly under cold running water until the water runs clear, which helps remove excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming too sticky.
- In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the rinsed jasmine rice, coconut milk, water, and salt. If using raisins, add them at this stage for enhanced flavor and sweetness.
- Place the saucepan over high heat and bring the mixture to a full boil, stirring gently to ensure the salt and ingredients are well combined.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to the lowest possible setting and cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid to trap steam and ensure even cooking.
- Allow the rice to simmer for approximately 18-20 minutes without lifting the lid, which helps maintain consistent temperature and moisture.
- After the cooking time, remove the pan from heat and let it sit, still covered, for an additional 5-7 minutes to allow the rice to steam and become fluffy.
- Uncover and fluff the rice gently with a fork, separating the grains and distributing the coconut milk and raisins evenly.
- Serve hot as a side dish or base for other Puerto Rican recipes, garnishing with fresh herbs if desired.
Tips
- Rice Rinsing is Key: Always thoroughly rinse your jasmine rice to remove excess starch. This ensures your rice will be fluffy and separated, not clumpy or sticky.
- Low and Slow Cooking: After bringing the rice to a boil, reduce heat to the absolute lowest setting. This gentle cooking method prevents burning and ensures even, perfect rice.
- Resist the Lid Temptation: Do not lift the lid during cooking! Each time you remove the lid, you release precious steam and can disrupt the cooking process.
- Raisin Enhancement: If using raisins, consider briefly soaking them in warm water before adding to the rice. This plumps them up and ensures they're soft and juicy.
- Fluffing Technique: When fluffing the rice, use a fork and a gentle, light touch. This helps separate the grains without mashing them.
- Serving Suggestions: This coconut rice pairs beautifully with grilled meats, seafood, or can be enjoyed as a standalone dish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 330kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Cholesterol: 0mg
