Long-Grain Brown Coconut Rice (Dairy-Free)
Updated: Oct 4
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Learn how to cook perfectly tender long-grain brown coconut rice. This easy recipe uses a 45-minute locked simmer and steam rest method for a super fluffy texture. This coconut rice is a super versatile side dish!
Why You'll Love this Easy Coconut Brown Rice Side Dish
Naturally Dairy-Free & Rich: The addition of rich coconut milk creates a creamy texture and a subtle hint of natural sweetness—no traditional dairy butter needed!
Kid-Friendly & Versatile: Whole-grain brown rice is an easy side dish that even picky eaters love (like my kids!).
Foolproof & Fluffy: Using the steam-rest technique guarantees perfectly cooked, tender grains every single time without drying out or getting mushy.
Everyone needs a good, easy rice recipe! Brown rice is such a universal easy side, very kid friendly, and naturally gluten-free. My kids will eat a big bowl of brown rice pretty reliably. I love making brown rice a little extra special by adding coconut milk to it. The coconut milk adds a delicious hint of sweetness without being overly sweet. No traditional butter needed!
What is the seceret to cooking really good, fluffy brown rice? The answer...just leave it alone. Let it cook, covered and untouched until the cooking liquid has completely evaporated. Then turn the heat off and let the rice rest with the lid on for about 10 minutes. After that, you are good to fluff it and enjoy! It's as easy as that.
This savory, Non-Dairy, Coconut Brown Rice pairs perfectly with:
A Note About Cross-Contamination: To ensure safety with any rice, look for certified gluten-free labels to avoid cross-contamination that can occur during processing. Additionally be aware cross contamination can occur in bulk grain bins at the grocery store (best to avoid those if you are concerned about cross contamination).
This is the brand that we like because they have the certified gluten-free label:
Check out Shop My Kitchen Essentials for other great gluten-free cooking products and non-toxic kitchenware I use in my home.
Frequently Asked Questions: Healthy Gluten-Free Coconut Rice
Why shouldn't I lift the lid while the rice is simmering?
Lifting the lid releases trapped steam and drops the internal temperature, which can lead to unevenly cooked or crunchy rice grains. Keeping the lid tight ensures the liquid absorbs perfectly during the 45-minute cook time and 10-minute steam rest.
Can I use light coconut milk instead of full-fat?
Yes, you can! Light coconut milk works well if you prefer a milder coconut flavor and lower fat content. Full-fat coconut milk creates a slightly richer, creamier rice, but both result in fluffy, savory rice.
How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store leftover coconut rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, sprinkle 1–2 teaspoons of water over the rice, cover, and microwave for 1 minute (or reheat in a saucepan over low heat) to restore its fluffy texture.
Is brown coconut rice naturally gluten-free?
Yes, rice is naturally gluten-free! However, if you have celiac disease or severe sensitivity, always choose certified gluten-free packaged brown rice to avoid potential cross-contamination during facility processing.
Is this brown rice recipe vegan?
Yes, this recipe uses just water, coconut milk, salt and rice.
Substitutions & Customizations
Grain Swaps
Swap long-grain brown rice for short-grain brown rice or jasmine brown rice (adjust liquid slightly according to package instructions).
Herbs & Garnishes
Fold in finely chopped fresh basil, fresh cilantro, sliced green onions, or toasted coconut flakes just before serving for added texture and fresh color.
Savory Boost
Replace half of the water with low-sodium vegetable broth or bone broth to infuse an extra layer of savory depth into the rice grains.
If you love this Brown Coconut Rice recipe, check out our full collection of Dinner Recipes. Check out other great gluten-free, dairy free recipes to add to your family's meal rotation:
Flaky & Savory Chicken Pot Pie
How to Make this Dairy-Free Brown Coconut Rice Recipe
Step 1: Rinse the Brown Rice
Place the brown rice in a fine-mesh strainer and rinse thoroughly under cold water for 1 minute to remove excess surface starch.
Step 2: Bring Brown Rice to a Boil
In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, coconut milk, water, and salt. Stir well to integrate the coconut milk, then bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
brown rice with water in a pot brown rice with water in a pot and a measuring cup of coconut milk brown rice with coconut milk and a red measuring teaspoon of salt stirring the brown rice and coconut milk over the stove
Step 3: Simmer the Brown Rice
Once boiling, immediately cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid and reduce the heat to your lowest setting. Simmer for 45 minutes without lifting the lid. Seriously, don't touch it!
Step 4: The Steam Rest
Remove the pot from the heat, keeping the lid completely closed for 10 minutes to allow the grains to finish cooking. After 10 minutes, remove the lid, fluff gently with a fork to release trapped steam, and replace the lid loosely until serving.
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