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Coconut Rice

Coconut Rice made and served in the glass Anyday dish, featuring fluffy rice seasoned with creamy coconut milk.
PT5M PT24M

Prep Time

5 mins

Cook Time

24-25 mins

Free Time

to put on a tropical playlist

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Coconut Rice

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Caution! Before cooking grains of any kind, you absolutely must lower your microwave’s power level as suggested in the recipe once you select the right wattage. If you skip this step (or fail to change your PL properly*) the rice will burn and you could severely damage your Anyday Dish. For detailed instructions on how to change your power level,  read our blog post on how to do it.

 

Sweet and savory coconut rice has never been easier! Full-fat coconut milk brings this dish to the next level, pairing beautifully with dishes like Butter Chicken Curry or Steamed Chicken with Ginger Scallion Sauce.

All of Anyday’s recipes are tested (and retested!) in many different microwave and home kitchens to make sure they work— and work well. Unless specified otherwise, all recipes should be cooked at full power.

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Pairs well with

Select your serving size and microwave wattage in the dropdown. The recipe will change accordingly.

1-2
  • 1-2
  • 2-4
✕

Select your microwave wattage in the dropdown. The cook times in this recipe will automatically change accordingly.

[[video-wattage]]

To find your microwave’s wattage, look at the front panel, the side of the door, in the back, in the user manual, or Google the model number. If both an input and output wattage are listed, use the output.

Wattage translates to how powerful the microwave is. The higher the wattage, the faster your food will cook. The lower the wattage, the longer the cook time.

When in doubt, start with less time — you can always add more.

700w
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Recommended 

Dish

The Large Deep Dish

Ingredients

  • ½ shallot, minced
  • 2 tablespoons butter, diced 
  • ¾ cup (145g) basmati rice 
  • 1 cup (240ml) water
  • ⅓ cup full-fat coconut milk
  • Salt, to taste

Preparation

  1. Place the rice in an Anyday dish and rinse thoroughly under cold tap water, swirling the rice around gently until the water becomes cloudy. Using the Anyday Strainer, strain the excess water. Repeat this process until the water runs clear.
  2. After straining, add the water, shallot, butter, rice, coconut milk, and salt to the Anyday dish and stir to combine. Cover with the lid (knob lifted).
  3. Cook in the microwave at Power Level 4
    ✕

    Certain foods cook best in the microwave at lower power levels. 

    [[video-power]]

    Different microwaves have different settings. See your microwave manual (or look it up online) to learn how to change your microwave’s power level.

    For many microwaves: enter the cook time, press the “Power” (or “Power Level”) button, and select a number between 1-10. Other microwaves may require selecting the Power Level first, and then entering the cook time.

    Microwaves list power levels in different ways. Here’s a guide to help you adjust:

    PL 10 = 100% = High (default)

    PL 9 = 90% = High

    PL 8 = 80% = Med-High

    PL 7 = 70% = Med-High

    PL 6 = 60% = Medium

    PL 5 = 50% = Medium

    PL 4 = 40% = Med-Low

    PL 3 = 30% = Med-Low

    PL 2 = 20% = Low

    PL 1 = 10% = Low

    You will know if the power level has been successfully changed if you hear periodic changes in the microwave’s tone after it begins cooking.

     for 24-25 minutes, or until the liquid is almost fully absorbed and the rice is cooked through and tender. Once cooked, let the rice rest for 5 minutes with the lid still on for the rest of the liquid to absorb.
  4. Fluff the rice with a fork and enjoy.

Suggestions

  • Curry leaf and cashew crunch: Stir in curry leaves and toasted cashews for a flavorful, crunchy twist.
  • Aromatic boost: Add lemongrass or makrut lime leaves while cooking to infuse the rice with extra fragrance.
  • Sweet mango dessert: Serve the rice with ripe mango slices and a drizzle of coconut milk or sweetened condensed milk for a tropical dessert.
  • Protein boost: Serve with coconut shrimp or tofu for a complete, satisfying meal

Recipe Notes

  • If it’s taking longer than expected, increase the power level by 1. If it’s bubbling over or the lid is lifting, decrease the power level by 1. 
  • Rinsing the rice is important to achieve tender, fluffy rice. Do not skip this step!
  • Microwave ovens vary, even with the same wattages. Adjust cooking times as needed.

All You Need to Know About Making Coconut Rice in the Microwave

What is coconut rice?

Coconut rice is a dish made by cooking rice with coconut milk, giving it a creamy, slightly sweet flavor. This fragrant and rich rice pairs well with a variety of savory dishes, such as curries or seafood dishes. Its subtle sweetness and smooth texture make it a perfect complement to bold, flavorful meals like Butter Chicken Curry.

Can I cook coconut rice in the microwave?

Yes, you can cook coconut rice in the microwave! Using an Anyday dish, coconut rice cooks evenly and quickly, absorbing the creamy coconut milk and flavors. This method allows for perfectly tender rice that needs no straining after being cooked. The Anyday dishes are perfect for rice, since you can cook, serve, store, and reheat the rice all in one go.

Why do I need to rinse the rice? How many times should I rinse it?

Rinsing rice is essential to remove excess starch, which can cause the grains to become sticky and clump together during cooking. Thoroughly rinsing the rice helps it cook up light and fluffy, with each grain staying perfectly separate. Use the Anyday Strainer to make the process quick and easy. Using an Anyday Strainer, rinse and drain the rice repeatedly until the water runs clear—this usually takes about 3 to 4 rinses. Properly rinsing the rice also improves its texture and overall quality in the finished dish.

Can I make coconut rice ahead of time?

Yes! Coconut rice can be made ahead of time and stored in an Anyday dish with the lid on for up to 3 days. To safely refrigerate, allow the rice to cool completely before covering with the lid and placing it in the fridge. Proper cooling helps prevent the development of foodborne illness. When you're ready to eat, simply reheat it in the microwave for a quick, flavorful side dish. The Anyday dish locks in moisture and flavor during reheating, ensuring the rice stays creamy and tender.

What’s the best way to reheat coconut rice?

The best way to reheat coconut rice is in the microwave using an Anyday dish. Cover the dish with the Anyday lid and microwave for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating. This method helps maintain the creamy texture and flavor without drying out the rice.

Can I freeze coconut rice?

Yes, coconut rice freezes well! Portion it into our silicone Anytime Freezer Trays and freeze for up to 4 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat the frozen portions in an Anyday dish and reheat for 1-2 minutes per portion in the microwave for a quick and delicious meal. Discover more about freezing and reheating with Anyday by exploring our blog here!

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