Thai Coconut Garlic Rice Recipe
This fragrant and creamy Thai Coconut Garlic Rice is an irresistible side dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of main courses, especially Thai-inspired curries. Infused with the natural sweetness of coconut milk and the rich flavor of garlic, this rice is a perfect blend of flavors and textures that can elevate any meal. Whether you’re preparing it for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, it is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Coconut oil | 1 teaspoon |
| Garlic (finely chopped) | 4 cloves |
| Rice (washed and soaked for 20 minutes) | 1 cup |
| Water | 1 cup |
| Coconut milk | 1 cup |
| Fresh green coriander (finely chopped) | 1 sprig |
| Salt | To taste |
| Coconut oil (for tempering) | 1 teaspoon |
| Garlic (sliced) | 4 cloves |
| Dried coconut (thinly sliced) | 2 tablespoons |
Preparation Time
- 5 minutes
Cooking Time
- 20 minutes
Total Time
- 25 minutes
Servings
- 3 servings
Cuisine
- Thai
Course
- Main Course
Diet
- Vegetarian
Instructions
-
Heat the Coconut Oil: Begin by heating 1 teaspoon of coconut oil in a pressure cooker over medium heat. Allow the oil to melt and coat the bottom of the cooker.
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Cook the Garlic: Add the finely chopped garlic to the cooker. Sauté for about 40 seconds, or until the garlic turns light golden brown and releases its aromatic flavor. Be careful not to let the garlic burn.
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Add Rice and Liquids: Once the garlic is perfectly browned, add the washed and soaked rice into the cooker. Stir to combine the rice with the garlic. Then, pour in 1 cup of water and 1 cup of coconut milk. Add salt to taste, and give everything a gentle stir.
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Pressure Cook the Rice: Close the pressure cooker with the lid and cook the rice on medium heat until 2 pressure whistles are heard. Once the rice is done cooking, turn off the gas and allow the pressure to naturally release.
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Prepare the Garnish: While the rice is cooking, heat another teaspoon of coconut oil in a small tempering pan. Add the sliced garlic and dried coconut to the pan. Fry the garlic and coconut until they turn crispy and golden brown, creating a delightful texture and flavor contrast for your rice.
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Assemble and Serve: Open the pressure cooker and fluff the rice with a fork. Transfer the rice to a serving plate. Pour the crispy garlic and coconut tempering mixture over the rice, garnishing with freshly chopped green coriander for a burst of freshness and color.
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Serve: This Thai Coconut Garlic Rice pairs wonderfully with dishes like Yellow Thai Chicken Curry or any other curry of your choice. It also works as a standalone dish for those who love rich, aromatic rice.
Serving Suggestions
For a complete Thai-inspired meal, serve this coconut garlic rice alongside a rich and flavorful curry such as Yellow Thai Chicken Curry or a hearty vegetable curry. The sweet and savory elements of the rice complement the spices in the curry, creating a deliciously balanced meal.
This dish is also a great addition to any Asian-themed dinner or potluck, providing a simple yet flavorful side that is sure to please a crowd.
Tips for Success
- Soaking Rice: Be sure to soak the rice for at least 20 minutes before cooking. This helps to achieve a softer, fluffier texture and ensures that the rice cooks evenly.
- Coconut Milk: Use full-fat coconut milk for a rich and creamy consistency. If you prefer a lighter version, you can opt for low-fat coconut milk.
- Garlic Flavor: If you’re a garlic lover, feel free to add an extra clove of garlic to the rice while cooking for a more intense flavor.
- Garnish Variations: While green coriander adds a fresh, herbaceous note, you can also experiment with garnishing with toasted sesame seeds or finely chopped mint leaves for a different flavor profile.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 230 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 40g |
| Protein | 4g |
| Fat | 8g |
| Saturated Fat | 7g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugars | 2g |
| Sodium | 250mg |
This Thai Coconut Garlic Rice recipe is a simple yet luxurious dish that will transport you straight to Thailand with every bite. With its creamy coconut milk, aromatic garlic, and crispy coconut garnish, it’s a must-try for any rice lover. Whether you serve it with your favorite curry or enjoy it on its own, this rice is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
