Savory Coconut Sticky Rice
There’s something truly comforting about a bowl of Savory Coconut Sticky Rice. I remember the first time I had it; I was visiting a friend who had just returned from a trip to Southeast Asia. The moment I took a bite, I was transported to a vibrant market bustling with flavors and colors. This dish combines the creamy goodness of coconut with the satisfying texture of sticky rice, creating a perfect harmony that dances on your palate. It quickly became a staple in my kitchen, especially during gatherings where I wanted to impress friends with something a little different yet entirely approachable. The rich aroma as it simmers on the stove is simply irresistible, inviting everyone to the table.
Recipe Snapshot
20 mins
5 mins
15 mins
Easy
250 kcal
4g g
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP
12g g
Wooden Spoon, Mixing Bowl, Frying Pan, Chef’s Knife, Saucepan, Large Pot
What We Adore About This Savory Coconut Sticky Rice
Why I Love This Recipe
There are so many reasons to adore Savory Coconut Sticky Rice. Here are just a few that make it stand out in my cooking repertoire.
1. A Blend of Flavors
The combination of coconut milk with scallions adds a unique flavor profile that elevates simple rice to extraordinary. It’s creamy yet light, satisfying but not heavy.
2. Easy to Make
Even if you’re not a seasoned cook, this dish is incredibly simple. With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create something that feels gourmet.
3. Versatile Side Dish
Savory Coconut Sticky Rice pairs well with a variety of main dishes, especially those with a spicy profile, making it an excellent choice for your next meal.
4. Perfect for Meal Prep
It stores well in the fridge, making it an ideal candidate for meal prep. Just reheat it, and you’ve got a quick side ready to go!
5. A Touch of Nostalgia
Every time I prepare this dish, it reminds me of the warmth of family and friends gathered around the table, sharing stories and laughter.
6. Great for Any Occasion
Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a more festive gathering, Savory Coconut Sticky Rice feels right at home.
What’s In This Savory Coconut Sticky Rice

The ingredients in Savory Coconut Sticky Rice work beautifully together to create a comforting and rich dish. The star of the show, coconut milk, gives it creaminess, while scallions add a fresh, vibrant taste. The white jasmine rice provides the perfect texture, making every bite a delight. This combination not only creates a delicious dish but also brings a touch of tropical flair to your table.
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can lite coconut milk – This ingredient is the heart of the dish, providing a rich and creamy base.
- 1/2 cup water – Helps balance the creaminess of the coconut milk, creating the perfect cooking environment for the rice.
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt – Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients, making each bite savory.
- 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup – Adds a subtle sweetness that complements the coconut without overpowering it.
- 1/3 cup scallions – Adds a fresh, oniony bite and a pop of color to the dish.
- 2 cups white jasmine rice – The main component that absorbs all the flavors and gives the dish its sticky texture.
Savory Coconut Sticky Rice Instructions

Making Savory Coconut Sticky Rice is a delightful process that brings the kitchen to life with wonderful aromas. Each step is straightforward, allowing you to focus on the joy of cooking. Let’s get started!
- Set a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the coconut milk, water, salt, and maple syrup. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. This combination will create a fragrant base for the rice.
- Once boiling, add the scallions to the pot. The heat will release their fresh aroma, enhancing the overall fragrance of the dish.
- Slowly pour in the jasmine rice, making sure to stir well to combine. This step is crucial for achieving the right texture of the sticky rice.
- As soon as the mixture returns to a boil, reduce the heat to low and cover the saucepan with a lid. This locking of steam is essential for cooking the rice evenly.
- Let it simmer while occasionally uncovering to stir gently. Be careful not to over-stir, as this can break the rice grains and affect the texture.
- Continue to simmer until most of the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender, about 8 to 10 minutes. You will notice the rice becoming plump and sticky.
- Once cooked, remove the saucepan from heat. Let it sit covered for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld perfectly.
- Top with the remaining sliced green parts of the scallions for added color and flavor before serving.
- Serve warm and enjoy the tropical flavors of your Savory Coconut Sticky Rice!
Things Worth Knowing
- Use a heavy-bottomed pot: This helps in even heat distribution and prevents the rice from burning at the bottom.
- Rinsing the rice: Rinsing removes excess starch and helps achieve that perfect sticky texture.
- Adjust sweetness: You can tweak the amount of maple syrup based on your preference for sweetness.
- Don’t skip the scallions: They add a fresh taste and a pop of color, making the dish visually appealing.
Helpful Hints

When making Savory Coconut Sticky Rice, it’s good to keep a few helpful hints in mind. These tips will ensure that you achieve the best results every time.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
- Freezing: Yes, you can freeze this dish! Spread it out on a baking sheet to cool, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It keeps well for up to three months.
- Pairing: This sticky rice pairs beautifully with grilled vegetables and spicy dishes, balancing out flavors.
- Variations: Feel free to experiment with different herbs or spices, such as ginger or cilantro, for added depth.
- Serving suggestions: Consider serving it alongside your favorite curries or stir-fries for a complete meal.
What to Pair With Savory Coconut Sticky Rice
Pairing dishes with Savory Coconut Sticky Rice can elevate your meal and create delightful combinations. Here are some wonderful options:
- Grilled Chicken: The creamy coconut flavor complements the charred, smoky notes of grilled chicken.
- Vegetable Curry: A spicy vegetable curry makes an excellent pairing, as the rice absorbs the flavors beautifully.
- Stir-Fried Tofu: For a vegetarian option, serve with stir-fried tofu and vegetables, enhancing the dish’s overall texture.
- Asian Slaw: A crunchy slaw adds freshness and contrast to the creamy rice.
- Perfect for Meals: This dish can be a fantastic addition to a lunch or dinner gathering, showcasing your culinary skills.
- Seasonal Pairings: During holidays or special occasions, Savory Coconut Sticky Rice can be a unique side that stands out on the table.
FAQ
Conclusion
In summary, Savory Coconut Sticky Rice is an exquisite blend of creamy coconut and tender rice that brings comfort to any meal. Its unique flavors and simplicity make it a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their dinner table. I encourage you to give it a go; you won’t regret this delightful addition to your cooking repertoire!

Savory Coconut Sticky Rice
Equipment
- Wooden Spoon
- Mixing Bowl
- Frying Pan
- Chef's Knife
- Saucepan
- Large Pot
Ingredients Â
- 1 14.5-ounce can lite coconut milk
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup can substitute granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup scallions white and pale green parts only, chopped, plus 2 tablespoons sliced green parts for garnish
- 2 cups white jasmine rice rinsed
InstructionsÂ
- Set a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the coconut milk, water, salt, and maple syrup. Bring mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally. Once boiling, add the scallions and slowly pour in the rice. Stir to combine. As soon as it returns to a boil, reduce heat to low and cover. Simmer, uncovering to stir occasionally then re-covering, until most of the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender, 8 to 10 minutes. Top with remaining scallions and serve.
Notes
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
- Freezing: Yes, you can freeze this dish! Spread it out on a baking sheet to cool, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It keeps well for up to three months.
- Pairing: This sticky rice pairs beautifully with grilled vegetables and spicy dishes, balancing out flavors.
- Variations: Feel free to experiment with different herbs or spices, such as ginger or cilantro, for added depth.
- Serving suggestions: Consider serving it alongside your favorite curries or stir-fries for a complete meal.
