Coconut Rice with Salmon/Veggies

Coconut Rice

Coconut rice is a beloved dish enjoyed by people all over the world. It is made by cooking rice in a mixture of coconut milk and water, giving the rice a unique and delicious flavor. 

This dish is a staple food in many parts of Southeast Asia, where it’s often served as an accompaniment to savory dishes like beef lumpia recipe and stir-fry. 

Coconut rice is also a popular dish in countries, such as Nigeria and Ghana, where it’s most times served as a side dish with stews and soups.

About Coconut Rice

Coconut rice has a long and rich history, dating back to ancient times in Southeast Asia. It is believed to have originated in the coastal regions of Southeast Asia, where coconuts were abundant and easily accessible.

Recipe Ingredients

1. 1 cup rice (feel free to substitute brown rice if needed)
2. 1 (15 ounce) can coconut milk
3. 1 (29-ounce) can of diced tomatoes
4. 4 medium habanero peppers
5. 1 small green pepper (diced)
6. 1 small yellow onion (diced)
7. 1/4 cup vegetable oil
8. 1 teaspoon sea salt
9. 1 teaspoon black pepper

How To Prepare?

There are different recipes for tasty coconut rice. Here is a look into our coconut rice preparation method;

1. Boil the rice in water for 10-15 minutes (don't let it get too soft).
2. Then heat the vegetable oil in a pot.
3. Add the onions and stir with black pepper for about a minute.
4. Add diced tomatoes, habaneros, and coconut milk with the sea salt and allow to cook for about 7 minutes (or when the mixture comes to a boil).
5. Pour the rice into the pot, stir, and cover for about 7 minutes (or when the rice is almost dry).
6. Finally, put in the green peppers and let simmer until the rice has absorbed all the juices.

Tips And Tricks

There are different varieties of rice, and to ensure it never comes out mushy, gummy, or burnt there are a few tips;

No matter how you're cooking your rice (or which variety you're making), it's important to rinse those grains. Doing so removes excess starch from the rice.

Toasting the rice enhances the natural flavor of the rice. Heat a teaspoon of butter or olive oil over medium heat in the pot you’re going to cook the rice in.

Adding a big pinch of salt to the cooking water goes a long way in making your finished rice taste balanced.

What To Serve With?

Coconut rice is not just delicious but pairs well with many dishes, making it perfect for different meals. Vegans also have an option with this dish. You may want to consider serving coconut brown rice with vegan gobi Manchurian. Or, try a tofu curry stir fry with some green beans or any other vegetables you have.

When you don't know what to serve with coconut rice but know you want a little heat, you could try some jerk pork, beef curry, or chicken vindaloo.

Nutritional Value

Coconut rice, not only offers a delicious taste but also offers many health benefits.

1. Coconut rice is high in healthy fats, particularly medium-chain fatty acids, that are easily absorbed and used by the body for energy.
2. These fats also help increase feelings of fullness and may aid in weight loss.
3. This dish can also be a good source of fiber, which is essential for the maintenance of a healthy digestive system. In addition, it can help lower cholesterol levels.

This coconut rice recipe is also rich in antioxidants, which can help protect the body against free radicals and reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as cancer. 

In conclusion, Whether you want to try traditional variations or create your unique twist, coconut rice is a dish that will never disappoint.

Want to browse through our other amazing delicacies? Check out Dcave to make your orders if you stay within Houston.