If you’re looking for an easy yet flavorful side dish to complement your meals, this savory coconut curry rice is a great choice. With the rich aroma of coconut milk, warm curry spices, and fluffy jasmine rice, this dish is a game-changer for family dinners. The best part? It’s effortlessly made in a rice cooker, making it a convenient, one-pot wonder!

This dish blends the comforting creaminess of coconut milk with the subtle warmth of curry, resulting in a balanced flavor that pairs beautifully with curries, grilled meats, or even on its own. Plus, it’s an excellent way to introduce kids to the flavors of Southeast Asian cuisine while keeping things simple and fun in the kitchen!

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What You’ll Need

The sweet flavor from the coconut milk and a warm kick from the curry, making it a delicious companion to your favorite curries, stir-fries, or grilled meats.

Tools

Rice cooker
Measuring cups and spoons
Mixing spoon
Cutting board and knife (if adding fresh vegetables)

Cooking Time & Servings

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

2 cups jasmine rice, rinsed
1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
1 cup vegetable or chicken broth
1 tablespoon curry powder
1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
1 tablespoon sugar
1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder (optional)
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, and bell peppers) (optional)
Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Lime wedges for serving (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Combine Ingredients

In your rice cooker, add the rinsed jasmine rice, coconut milk, broth, curry powder, salt, sugar, turmeric (if using), and black pepper.

2. Add Vegetables (Optional)

If using mixed vegetables, layer them on top of the rice without stirring.

3. Cook the Rice

Close the lid of the rice cooker, select the ‘white rice’ setting, and start cooking. The cooker will automatically switch to ‘keep warm’ once done.

4. Fluff and Serve

Once the rice is finished cooking, let it sit for 5 minutes before opening the lid. Fluff with a fork and mix in the vegetables if added. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges.

Pro Tips for Success

Rinse Your Rice – Washing the jasmine rice removes excess starch, preventing it from getting mushy.
Layer the Veggies – If using vegetables, place them on top of the rice rather than stirring them in before cooking. This helps them retain texture and color.
Adjust the Curry Flavor – If making this for kids, start with ½ tablespoon of curry powder and increase as desired.
Use Full-Fat Coconut Milk – This gives the dish a creamy richness that pairs beautifully with the spices.
Let It Rest – Once the rice cooker finishes, let the rice sit for 5 minutes before fluffing for the best texture.

Substitutions and Variations

Brown Rice Option – Use brown jasmine rice, but increase the cooking time and liquid ratio.
Protein Add-ins – Add shredded chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a complete meal.
Spicy Kick – Sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for extra heat.
Kid-Friendly Version – Reduce the curry powder and add a dash of cinnamon for a milder taste.

Make-Ahead Tips

Cooked rice can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container. Reheat in the microwave with a splash of coconut milk to keep it moist.
You can prepare the ingredients in advance and store them separately to make cooking even quicker.

Leftovers & Storage

Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Warm in the microwave with a tablespoon of water or coconut milk to prevent drying out.

This recipe is not only a crowd-pleaser but also a great way to get creative in the kitchen. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or proteins, making it versatile enough for any occasion.

Enjoy this creamy, flavorful coconut curry rice, a simple yet satisfying side dish perfect for busy weeknights or special family meals! See my rice cooker coconut pudding recipe.