Cameroonian Coconut Rice: Authentic Recipe & Step-by-Step Preparation from Scratch
🥥 What Is Cameroonian Coconut Rice?
Cameroonian Coconut Rice is a beloved traditional dish across the country, often served during family gatherings, Sunday lunches, or festive celebrations. This aromatic rice is simmered in rich, creamy coconut milk, combined with spices, vegetables, and sometimes protein like smoked fish or meat.
The result? A flavorful, slightly creamy rice that bursts with tropical flavor and earthy aromas — simple yet deeply satisfying.
🛒 Ingredients for Authentic Coconut Rice
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Long-grain rice | 2 cups | Rinsed thoroughly to remove starch |
| Fresh coconut milk | 2 – 2½ cups | Can use canned if fresh is unavailable |
| Water or broth | 1 – 1½ cups | To supplement coconut milk if needed |
| Onion (chopped) | 1 medium | For savory flavor |
| Garlic (minced) | 2 cloves | Optional but enhances aroma |
| Bay leaf | 1 | Adds subtle depth |
| Salt | To taste | |
| Vegetable oil or coconut oil | 2 tbsp | For sautéing |
| Mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, etc.) | 1 cup | Optional, for color and nutrients |
| Smoked fish or meat (optional) | 1 cup shredded | Adds protein and a smoky taste |
👩🍳 How to Make Cameroonian Coconut Rice from Scratch
✅ Step 1: Prepare the Coconut Milk (If Using Fresh)
- Break open a mature coconut and grate the flesh.
- Blend the grated coconut with warm water and strain through a sieve or cheesecloth to extract thick milk.
- Repeat with more warm water for thinner milk. Combine both for the recipe.
✅ Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
- Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add chopped onions and garlic and sauté until translucent and fragrant (about 2–3 minutes).
- Add the bay leaf and stir.
✅ Step 3: Add Rice and Liquids
- Add the rinsed rice to the pot and stir to coat with oil and flavor.
- Pour in the coconut milk and water or broth, ensuring the liquid covers the rice by about 1 inch.
- Add salt to taste.
✅ Step 4: Simmer and Cook
- Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20–25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and liquid is fully absorbed.
- Avoid stirring too much during cooking — you want fluffy, not mushy rice.
✅ Step 5: Add Optional Ingredients
- When the rice is almost done, stir in your choice of vegetables and/or smoked fish or meat.
- Let it cook uncovered for another 5 minutes to absorb excess moisture and build flavor.
🍽️ How to Serve Cameroonian Coconut Rice
Cameroonian Coconut Rice can be served:
- As a main dish with smoked chicken, grilled fish, or fried plantains.
- As a side dish alongside tomato stew, groundnut soup, or grilled meat.
- With a spicy pepper sauce for an extra kick.
💡 Tips for Perfect Coconut Rice
- Use high-quality coconut milk for rich flavor.
- Don’t over-stir the rice — let it steam gently to avoid breaking the grains.
- Customize with ginger, curry powder, or scotch bonnet for a spicy twist.
- Use leftover rice for next-day stir-fried coconut rice — just add more veggies and scrambled eggs.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use basmati rice instead of long-grain rice?
Yes, but adjust the liquid accordingly, as basmati cooks faster.
Q: Is Cameroonian coconut rice vegan-friendly?
It is if you skip the smoked meat or fish. Stick to vegetables and coconut oil for a vegan version.
Q: How do I store leftover coconut rice?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of water or coconut milk.
🏁 Final Thoughts
Cameroonian Coconut Rice is a comforting, nutrient-rich dish that perfectly captures the spirit of traditional West African cooking. Whether enjoyed plain, with vegetables, or alongside meat and stew, it’s a simple yet elegant meal packed with flavor.
Try this recipe today and bring a taste of Cameroon right to your kitchen!