Description
This Mango Coconut Rice recipe is a perfect blend of creamy coconut milk-infused basmati rice and sweet, fresh mango chunks. It’s a quick and easy dish with tropical flavors that work wonderfully as a light dessert or a sweet side dish. The subtle hint of coconut enriches the rice’s texture, while the mango adds a refreshing burst of sunshine.
Ingredients
Scale
Rice and Cooking Liquid
- 1 ½ cups basmati rice (or long-grain white rice)
- 1 ½ cups water
- 1 cup (15-ounce can) full-fat coconut milk
- 1 ¾ teaspoons salt
Mix-Ins and Garnish
- 1 cup finely diced mango
- Basil (chiffonade, optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Rinse the Rice: Add the basmati rice to a fine mesh strainer and rinse under cool running water for 1-2 minutes, or until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming sticky. Let the rice drain and dry completely.
- Boil Liquids: In a medium-sized pot, combine the water and full-fat coconut milk. Bring this mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, ensuring the liquid is well heated to cook the rice properly.
- Add Rice and Salt: Once the liquid is boiling, add the salt and the rinsed, drained rice to the pot. Stir gently to distribute the salt and rice evenly.
- Simmer the Rice: Return the mixture to a boil, then immediately reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot with a lid and let the rice simmer for 20 to 25 minutes. After 20 minutes, check the rice to see if it is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Cook a few minutes longer if needed.
- Finish and Serve: Turn off the heat and gently fold in the finely diced mango, allowing the sweetness to meld into the creamy coconut rice. Serve immediately as is or garnish with fresh chiffonade of basil for an aromatic finish. Enjoy your tropical-inspired dish!
Notes
- Rinsing the rice is essential to prevent clumping and to get fluffy grains.
- Full-fat coconut milk gives the best creamy texture; light coconut milk will make the dish less rich.
- Fresh ripe mango is preferred for optimal sweetness and flavor.
- Basil garnish is optional but adds a lovely herbal note.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated; the texture may change slightly.
