Name: Creamy Coconut-lime Rice With Peanuts Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Thai
Ingredients: 1 cup jasmine rice (Rinse until the water runs clear); 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk; 1 cup water; 2 tablespoons sugar; 1/2 teaspoon salt; Zest of 1 lime; 1/4 cup lime juice (About 2 limes); 1/2 cup roasted peanuts (Roughly chopped); Fresh cilantro for garnish (Optional, to taste)

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If you’re on the hunt for a dish that effortlessly combines tropical creaminess with a zesty lime punch and a delightful crunch, you have to try this delicious Creamy Coconut-lime Rice With Peanuts. It’s a perfect balance of rich coconut milk, fragrant jasmine rice, bright lime flavor, and the satisfying texture of roasted peanuts. This recipe brings a fresh twist to everyday rice, making each bite a celebration of flavors and textures that dance on your palate. Whether you want a comforting side or a light main, this dish is bound to brighten up your table and your mood!

Creamy Coconut-lime Rice With Peanuts Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting this creamy coconut-lime rice just right depends on a handful of simple, fragrant ingredients that come together beautifully. Each one plays an important role—from bringing creaminess and citrus zing to adding the perfect crunchy contrast.

1 cup jasmine rice: Provides a fragrant, fluffy base with a delicate floral aroma that complements the coconut.
1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk: Adds luxurious creaminess and richness that infuses the rice with tropical flavor.
1 cup water: Helps cook the rice evenly and gently blends with the coconut milk.
Zest of 1 lime: Brings a bright, citrusy perfume that wakes up the dish.
1/4 cup lime juice: Delivers a fresh, tangy bite to balance the sweet and creamy notes.
2 tablespoons sugar: Enhances the natural sweetness and rounds out the lime’s tartness.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Elevates all flavors and keeps the dish perfectly balanced.
1/2 cup roasted peanuts (roughly chopped): Adds a satisfying crunchy texture and a toasty, nutty flavor that complements the creamy rice.
Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional): Offers a burst of herbaceous freshness to brighten the whole dish.

How to Make Creamy Coconut-lime Rice With Peanuts

Step 1: Rinse the Rice

Start by rinsing 1 cup of jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This essential step removes excess starch, ensuring your rice cooks up fluffy without clumping or becoming gummy—setting the perfect texture tone for your creamy coconut-lime rice with peanuts.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

In a medium saucepan, stir together the rinsed rice, 1 can of coconut milk, 1 cup of water, 2 tablespoons of sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. This mixture is the magic foundation that will infuse your rice with deep, tropical creaminess and subtle sweetness as it cooks perfectly.

Step 3: Bring to a Boil and Simmer

Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Then, reduce the heat to low, cover with a tight-fitting lid, and let it simmer gently. This stage is crucial—a slow, even simmer allows the rice to absorb all that luscious coconut-lime liquid fully without drying out or burning.

Step 4: Let the Rice Cook Fully

Allow the rice to simmer for about 15 to 18 minutes, or until the liquid is completely absorbed and the grains are tender. Avoid lifting the lid during cooking to keep the steam trapped, which helps achieve that perfect creaminess.

Step 5: Rest and Fluff

Once cooked, remove the pan from heat but keep the lid on. Let the rice rest for 5 minutes—this resting period lets the rice firm up slightly and finish absorbing any remaining moisture. After resting, fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains and maintain that light, airy texture.

Step 6: Add Lime Zest and Juice

Now comes the bright twist: stir in the zest of 1 lime along with 1/4 cup of fresh lime juice. These citrusy elements give the creamy rice a lively pop of flavor that lifts the entire dish, creating a perfect harmony between richness and freshness.

Step 7: Garnish with Peanuts and Cilantro

Transfer your rice to a beautiful serving bowl, then generously sprinkle the chopped roasted peanuts over the top. The peanuts introduce a wonderful crunch and nutty note that contrasts beautifully with the silky rice. Add fresh cilantro if you like for an herbal brightness that rounds out the flavors.

Step 8: Serve Warm and Enjoy!

Your Creamy Coconut-lime Rice With Peanuts is ready to impress! Serve it warm as a delectable side dish or even a light main. Every bite offers a perfect combination of textures and bold tropical flavors that will surely become one of your go-to favorites.

How to Serve Creamy Coconut-lime Rice With Peanuts

Garnishes

To make this dish look as good as it tastes, garnish with extra chopped peanuts for added crunch and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for a green, fresh contrast. A few thin lime slices on the side can also add a lovely visual and flavor boost when guests want a little extra zing.

Side Dishes

This rice pairs beautifully with lightly spiced grilled chicken, vibrant vegetable stir-fries, or even a refreshing cucumber salad. The creamy coconut and zesty lime make it a fantastic partner for bold flavors without overpowering them.

Creative Ways to Present

For an eye-catching presentation, serve the rice in hollowed-out lime halves or coconut shells at your next gathering. You can also top the rice with a drizzle of chili oil or toasted coconut flakes to add an unexpected depth and visual appeal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The creamy coconut will keep the rice moist and flavorful for up to 3 days, making for a delicious second-day meal.

Freezing

Creamy Coconut-lime Rice With Peanuts freezes well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. It will stay tasty for up to one month, perfect for keeping your kitchen stocked with a quick tropical treat.

Reheating

When ready to enjoy again, gently reheat the rice on the stovetop with a splash of water or coconut milk to restore its creaminess. You can also microwave it covered, stirring occasionally to heat evenly. Top with fresh peanuts and cilantro after reheating for that fresh crunch and flavor.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of rice?

Jasmine rice is preferred for its fragrance and texture, but you can use basmati or long-grain rice. Just adjust the cooking time and liquid ratio slightly to match the rice you choose for the best results.

Is this dish vegan?

Absolutely! Creamy Coconut-lime Rice With Peanuts is naturally vegan and dairy-free, making it a wonderful option for those following plant-based diets.

Can I make this dish less sweet or more tart?

Definitely. You can easily adjust the sugar and lime juice amounts to suit your taste—less sugar for a drier, less sweet dish and more lime juice for an extra citrusy kick.

What can I do if I don’t have roasted peanuts?

Try toasted cashews or almonds as a substitute. They add a nice crunch and a slightly different but equally delicious nutty flavor.

Can I add protein directly to this dish?

Yes! Stir in cooked shrimp, chicken, or tofu after cooking the rice. These proteins complement the creamy, zesty base nicely and make the dish more substantial.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Coconut-lime Rice With Peanuts is truly a gem that deserves a spot in your regular rotation. It turns ordinary rice into an extraordinary flavor adventure that’s easy to prepare, comforting, and endlessly versatile. I can’t wait for you to try this vibrant, creamy, and crunchy delight at home—your taste buds will thank you for it!

Creamy Coconut-lime Rice With Peanuts Recipe

★★★★★

5.1 from 20 reviews

Author: Noah
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Creamy Coconut-lime Rice with Peanuts is a fragrant and flavorful dish featuring jasmine rice cooked in rich coconut milk, enhanced with fresh lime zest and juice for a zesty tang. Topped with crunchy roasted peanuts and optional fresh cilantro, this recipe offers a delightful balance of creamy, citrusy, and nutty flavors, making it a perfect side or light main dish.

Ingredients

Scale

Rice and Coconut Mixture

1 cup jasmine rice (Rinse until the water runs clear)
1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
1 cup water
2 tablespoons sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt

Flavorings and Toppings

Zest of 1 lime
1/4 cup lime juice (About 2 limes)
1/2 cup roasted peanuts (Roughly chopped)
Fresh cilantro for garnish (Optional, to taste)

Instructions

Rinse the Rice: Rinse the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch, ensuring a fluffy texture after cooking.
Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, mix the rinsed rice, coconut milk, water, sugar, and salt thoroughly to blend the flavors before cooking.
Bring to Boil: Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Simmer: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan with a lid, and let the rice simmer for 15-18 minutes, or until the liquid is fully absorbed and the rice is tender. Avoid lifting the lid to keep the steam inside.
Rest the Rice: Remove the saucepan from the heat and keep it covered, allowing the rice to rest for 5 minutes to finish steaming and to enhance texture.
Fluff and Add Lime: Fluff the rice gently with a fork, then stir in the lime zest and lime juice to add a vibrant, fresh flavor to the creamy rice.
Serve with Toppings: Transfer the rice to a serving bowl and sprinkle the chopped roasted peanuts on top. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired for an herbal note.
Enjoy: Serve the creamy coconut-lime rice warm as a delicious side dish or a light main course, perfect for pairing with grilled meats, seafood, or vegetables.

Notes

Rinsing the rice thoroughly helps achieve a fluffy texture by removing excess starch.
Use full-fat coconut milk for a creamier and richer flavor.
Keep the lid closed during cooking to trap steam and ensure even cooking.
The roasted peanuts add a delightful crunch, but you can substitute with cashews or almonds if preferred.
Adjust sugar and lime juice to taste for your preferred balance of sweetness and acidity.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of water or coconut milk to maintain creaminess.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Side Dish
Method: Simmering
Cuisine: Thai