This Nigerian Coconut Rice Recipe is a flavorful dish packed with the creamy richness of coconut milk and the vibrant spices of West African cuisine. Perfect for festive occasions or a hearty family meal, this dish pairs well with fried plantains, grilled chicken, or steamed vegetables. Here’s how to prepare it!
Ingredients:
- Rice: 3 cups (long-grain or parboiled)
- Coconut milk: 2 cups
- Coconut water: 1 cup (optional, for extra flavor)
- Chicken or beef stock: 1 1/2 cups
- Vegetable oil: 1/4 cup
- Onions: 2 medium (1 chopped, 1 blended)
- Fresh tomatoes: 3 (blended)
- Red bell peppers (tatashe): 2 (blended)
- Scotch bonnet peppers (ata rodo): 2 (blended, adjust for spice)
- Garlic: 2 cloves (minced)
- Ginger: 1 teaspoon (grated)
- Bay leaves: 2
- Thyme: 1 teaspoon
- Seasoning cubes: 2-3
- Salt: To taste
- Shredded coconut: Optional (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Rinse the rice:
- Wash the rice thoroughly under cold water to remove excess starch. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the base:
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and ginger, and sauté until fragrant.
- Cook the tomato blend:
- Add the blended mixture of tomatoes, red bell peppers, scotch bonnet, and one onion. Stir and cook for 10–15 minutes, or until the oil separates from the sauce.
- Incorporate the liquids:
- Pour in the coconut milk, coconut water (if using), and chicken or beef stock. Add the bay leaves, thyme, seasoning cubes, and salt. Stir to combine and bring to a boil.
- Cook the rice:
- Add the rinsed rice to the pot, stir well, and reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot tightly with a lid. Allow the rice to simmer for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Check for doneness:
- Once the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid, remove the pot from the heat. Let it sit for 5 minutes before fluffing it with a fork.
- Garnish and serve:
- If desired, sprinkle shredded coconut over the rice for added flavor and texture.
Tips for the Best Coconut Rice:
- Use fresh coconut milk for a more authentic taste.
- Adjust the spice level by adding or reducing the scotch bonnet peppers.
- Avoid overcooking the rice to maintain its texture.
Serving Suggestions:
This Nigerian Coconut Rice Recipe pairs wonderfully with:
- Fried plantains
- Grilled chicken or fish
- Spicy tomato stew
- Stir-fried vegetables
Rich, creamy, and full of bold flavors, this coconut rice recipe will be a hit at any meal. It’s an easy way to bring the taste of Nigeria to your table!
