Toasted Coconut Rice - Instant Pot or Stovetop

This Coconut Rice Recipe is super easy and loaded with extra flavor, plus a yummy crunch from toasted coconut flakes. You’ll love how the onion and coconut milk really layer in the flavors. For that perfect fluffy (not gluey!) texture, we toast the rice before cooking it in coconut milk. It’s a simple, hassle-free side dish—perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or when you want to impress your guests without a lot of effort!

📝 Ingredients

• 1 cup shredded coconut flakes (sweetened or unsweetened (see note))
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1/4 onion (yellow or sweet, diced)
• 2 cups long-grain white rice
• 1 13.5 oz can coconut milk (unsweetened)
• 1 1/2 - 2 cups water (depending on cooking method)
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• chopped green onions (optional topping)

👨‍🍳 Instructions

1. 1In a skillet over medium-low heat, cook the shredded coconut until lightly brown, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
2. 2--- Instant Pot Instructions ---
3. 3Turn Instant Pot to saute. Melt butter and cook onion until soft and translucent, 3-5 minutes.
4. 4Stir in rice for 30-60 seconds, coating each granule in butter.
5. 5Add coconut milk, 1 ½ cups of water, and salt.
6. 6Close the lid and turn the venting knob to "Sealing." Select the "Rice" function (will cook for ~20 minutes). After cooking, let pressure release naturally for 10 minutes (don't open the lid or move the venting knob). Move knob to "Venting" and open the lid once steam has escaped.
7. 7Fluff the rice thoroughly with a fork. Top with toasted coconut and chopped green onions, if desired.
8. 8--- Stovetop Instructions ---
9. 9In a medium sauce pan melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until soft and translucent, 3-5 minutes.
10. 10Stir in rice for 30-60 seconds, coating each granule in butter.
11. 11Add coconut milk, 2 cups of water, and salt.
12. 12Bring the rice to a simmer, then cover with a lid and reduce heat to low. Cook for 20 minutes (don't open the lid). Remove from the heat and allow to stand for 5-10 minutes with the lid on.
13. 13Fluff the rice thoroughly with a fork. Top with toasted coconut and chopped green onions, if desired.