COCONUT RICE

Coconut rice is a dish prepared by soaking white rice in coconut milk or cooking it with coconut flakes. As both the coconut and the rice are commonly found in the tropics all around the world, coconut rice too is found in many cultures throughout the world, spanning across the equator from  North America, South America, Africa, Asia, and Australia.

Unlike, regular boiled rice which is pure starch, adding coconut milk to rice improves its savour and nutrients. Coconut milk is rich in copper and iron, which help form red blood cells, as well as selenium, an important antioxidant that protects the cells. The minerals in coconut also perform many functions in the body. Coconuts are especially high in manganese, which is essential for bone health and the metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins, and cholesterol.

Coconut rice is now commonly found in parties, and eateries, and can be cooked at home. Check out this amazing recipe for your next culinary art. 

Recipe

• 3 cups rice

• 12 pieces of chicken

• 400ml can of Coconut Milk

• A teaspoon each: ground pepper, onion, salt and garlic (to season the chicken)

• Bay leaves (optional)

• 200ml vegetable oil

• Small minced Onion

• Minced Tomatoes – to taste

• Minced Pepper – to taste

• Any other desired vegetable 

Procedure

• Rinse the rice and parboil it for about 20 minutes.

• Drain the water and set it aside.

• Rinse the chicken and season it with salt and spices.

• Add onions and boil for 15 minutes.

• Heat vegetable oil in a large frying pan or saucepan. 

•  Add chicken pieces and deep fry.

• Take out some of the oil and add in onions, tomatoes, and pepper and stir fry for two minutes. 

• Add the coconut milk and rice. 

• Season with salt and spices, and stir and cover. 

• Add the Bay leaves when it is almost done.

• While it is simmering, cover the rice until it is cooked thoroughly.