Coconut Fried Rice, known in Thailand as Khao Pad Kati, is a fragrant and flavorful rice dish that combines the rich sweetness of coconut milk with aromatic jasmine rice, vegetables, and your choice of protein. This popular Thai dish offers a wonderful balance of creamy, savory, and slightly sweet flavors, making it a perfect accompaniment to grilled meats, seafood, or as a satisfying meal on its own.

With its tropical aroma and delicate taste, Coconut Fried Rice is a favorite at Thai restaurants and home kitchens alike.

What is Coconut Fried Rice?

Coconut Fried Rice is a Thai-style fried rice made by cooking jasmine rice with coconut milk and then stir-frying it with vegetables, seasonings, and often shrimp, chicken, or tofu. The coconut milk gives the rice a rich aroma and subtle sweetness that pairs beautifully with savory ingredients.

Unlike traditional fried rice, Coconut Fried Rice has a softer, more fragrant character that reflects Thailand’s love for coconut-based dishes.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Rich coconut aroma and flavor
  • Easy to prepare
  • Naturally fragrant and comforting
  • Perfect balance of sweet and savory
  • Versatile with various proteins
  • Restaurant-quality Thai dish at home

Ingredients

For the Fried Rice

  • 3 cups cooked jasmine rice
  • ½ cup coconut milk
  • 250 g shrimp, chicken, tofu, or mixed vegetables
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • ½ cup carrots, diced
  • ½ cup peas
  • 2 green onions, sliced
  • 2 tablespoons roasted cashews

For Seasoning

  • 1 tablespoon fish sauce
  • 1 teaspoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon palm sugar
  • ¼ teaspoon white pepper

Garnish

  • Fresh cilantro
  • Lime wedges
  • Sliced cucumber
  • Roasted cashews

Equipment Needed

  • Wok or large frying pan
  • Wooden spatula
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Mixing bowl

Preparation Time

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Servings: 4

Step 1: Prepare the Rice

For the best flavor, cook jasmine rice with part water and part coconut milk.

Allow the rice to cool completely before frying.

Day-old rice works particularly well because it remains fluffy during stir-frying.

Step 2: Cook the Aromatics

Heat the vegetable oil in a wok over medium-high heat.

Add:

  • Garlic
  • Onion

Stir-fry for 1–2 minutes until fragrant and slightly softened.

Step 3: Cook the Protein

Add your chosen protein.

Cook until fully done:

  • Shrimp: 2–3 minutes
  • Chicken: 4–5 minutes
  • Tofu: 3–4 minutes

Add carrots and peas.

Stir-fry for another 2 minutes.

Step 4: Add the Rice

Add the cooked jasmine rice.

Break apart any clumps using the spatula.

Stir-fry for 2–3 minutes until heated through.

Step 5: Add Coconut Milk and Seasonings

Pour in:

  • Coconut milk
  • Fish sauce
  • Soy sauce
  • Palm sugar
  • White pepper

Stir continuously until the rice absorbs the coconut milk and becomes fragrant.

Cook for another 2–3 minutes.

Step 6: Finish the Dish

Add:

  • Green onions
  • Roasted cashews

Toss gently to combine.

Remove from heat.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Transfer the fried rice to serving plates.

Garnish with:

  • Fresh cilantro
  • Additional roasted cashews
  • Lime wedges
  • Cucumber slices

Serve immediately.

Chef's Tips

  • Use full-fat coconut milk for the richest flavor.
  • Avoid adding too much coconut milk, which can make the rice overly soft.
  • Day-old rice provides the best texture.
  • Roasted cashews add excellent crunch and nutty flavor.
  • A squeeze of lime enhances the sweetness of the coconut.

Variations

Shrimp Coconut Fried Rice

A classic Thai restaurant favorite featuring juicy shrimp and tropical flavors.

Pineapple Coconut Fried Rice

Add pineapple chunks for a sweet and fruity twist.

Chicken Coconut Fried Rice

A hearty version perfect for family dinners.

Vegetarian Coconut Fried Rice

Use tofu and replace fish sauce with soy sauce or mushroom sauce.

Health Benefits

This dish provides:

  • Energy from jasmine rice
  • Healthy fats from coconut milk
  • Protein from shrimp, chicken, or tofu
  • Vitamins from vegetables
  • Minerals from cashews

Serving Suggestions

Coconut Fried Rice pairs beautifully with:

  • Thai grilled chicken (Gai Yang)
  • Grilled shrimp skewers
  • Red curry
  • Green curry
  • Thai cucumber salad
  • Fresh tropical fruit

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Reheat gently in a wok or skillet before serving.

Avoid freezing, as the texture of the rice may change.

Final Thoughts

Coconut Fried Rice (Khao Pad Kati) is a fragrant Thai rice dish that brings together creamy coconut milk, aromatic jasmine rice, colorful vegetables, and savory seasonings. The result is a comforting and flavorful meal with a subtle tropical character that perfectly complements Thai cuisine.

Whether served alongside curries and grilled dishes or enjoyed on its own, Coconut Fried Rice is a delicious way to experience the rich flavors of Thailand.