Ingredients:

• 1 cup long-grain white rice (jasmine or basmati rice works well)
• 1 1/2 cups coconut milk (canned or freshly extracted from grated coconut)
• 1 1/2 cups water
• 1-2 tablespoons sugar (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• A few pandan leaves or a strip of lime zest (optional, for added flavor)
• Shredded coconut or toasted coconut flakes for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Rinse the Rice:

• Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer under cold running water until the water runs clear. Drain well.

2. Combine Rice and Coconut Milk:

• In a saucepan or rice cooker, combine the rinsed rice, coconut milk, and water.
• If using pandan leaves or lime zest, add them to the mixture for extra flavor.

3. Sweeten and Season:

• Add sugar and salt to the rice and coconut milk mixture. Adjust the sweetness and saltiness to your liking.

4. Cook the Rice:

• Cook the rice according to the instructions of your rice cooker or on the stovetop. When cooking on the stovetop, bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15-18 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.

5. Fluff and Rest:

• Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork and let it rest for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

6. Garnish and Serve:

• If desired, garnish the coconut milk rice with shredded coconut or toasted coconut flakes for added texture and flavor.

7. Enjoy:

• Serve your coconut milk rice as a delightful side dish or enjoy it as a comforting, tropical-flavored meal.

Rice cooked in coconut milk is a delicious and fragrant dish with a subtle sweetness and creaminess that complements various main courses. It's a popular dish in many Southeast Asian and tropical cuisines, known for its rich coconut flavor and lovely aroma.