This Instant Pot Coconut Rice is perfectly fluffy and infused with rich coconut flavor, making it an easy and delicious side dish for any meal.
This Instant Pot Coconut Rice is an easy, flavorful side dish that comes out perfectly fluffy every time. Made with creamy coconut milk and just the right amount of seasoning, it has a rich, slightly sweet flavor that pairs beautifully with everything from grilled meats to curries and stir-fries. The Instant Pot takes the guesswork out of cooking rice, delivering consistent results with minimal effort.
I love pairing this coconut rice with my Yellow Coconut Curry Chicken, Chicken Satay, and Thai Red Curry.
Table of Contents
Recipe Ingredients
Coconut Milk – Full-fat unsweetened coconut milk is ideal for a richer flavor. Always use canned coconut milk instead of milk from a carton, as the latter is more diluted and lacks the creamy consistency needed for this recipe. Stir well before measuring.
Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and a smooth finish to the rice.
For a full list of ingredients and amounts, see the recipe card below.
How to Make Instant Pot Coconut Rice
Step 1: Add rice to a mesh sieve and rinse under cold water for 1 minute, or until the water runs clear.
Step 2: Transfer the rice to the Instant Pot. Add coconut milk, water, butter, and salt. Stir to combine, then close the lid and set the release valve to the sealing position.
Step 3: Select MANUAL mode (high pressure) and cook for 6 minutes. Once finished, let the pressure release naturally. After the float valve drops, leave the rice for an additional 8 minutes, then carefully remove the lid.
Step 4: Fluff rice with a fork and serve hot.
Alternative Cooking Methods for Coconut Rice
Slow Cooker – Using a slow cooker is not recommended for coconut rice. It cooks quickly in the Instant Pot, and using a crockpot risks burning the rice and is inefficient for this recipe.
Rice Cooker – Add all ingredients to a rice cooker and select the white rice or regular cooking setting. Once cooked, fluff the rice with a fork and serve.
FAQs
Other types of rice, like basmati rice, arborio rice, sushi, or long-grain white rice, can work but may need adjustments in liquid and cooking time. Brown rice takes longer, needing 6–7 minutes instead of the usual 3.
Coconut rice pairs wonderfully with dishes like Sticky Asian Meatballs, Better Than Takeout Sesame Chicken, Sweet and Sour Meatballs, Homemade Massaman Curry, Better Than Takeout Orange Chicken, or Thai Chicken for a flavorful meal.
Storage Information
To STORE leftovers, let the Coconut Rice cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for 4–6 days. For longer storage, FREEZE the cooled rice in a glass freezer-safe container with an airtight lid for up to 1 month.
To REHEAT, add a few drops of water or coconut milk and reheat with a lid on, either in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, to steam and retain moisture.
More Rice Recipes to Try
Instant Pot Coconut Rice Recipe
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Ingredients
- 1 c jasmine rice
- 3/4 c unsweetened coconut milk
- 1/2 c water
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Add rice to a mesh sieve and rinse under cold water for 1 minute, or until the water runs clear.
- Transfer the rice to the Instant Pot. Add coconut milk, water, butter, and salt. Stir to combine, then close the lid and set the release valve to the sealing position.
- Select MANUAL mode (high pressure) and cook for 6 minutes. Once finished, let the pressure release naturally. After the float valve drops, leave the rice for an additional 8 minutes, then carefully remove the lid.
- Fluff rice with a fork and serve hot.
I won’t make rice any other way! It turns out perfectly in the instant pot every single time!
I love the flavor the coconut milk adds! It also makes is so moist & fluffy! The perfect side to so many things!
Thank you so much for this!! Really easy to make! Such a great idea!
Simple to make and delicious! I can’t wait to make this again!
This rice is a really great side dish! Love the flavor, so yummy!