Chingal0

Cilantro Coconut Rice

3 cups basmati rice (20 oz)
3/4 cup sweetened flaked coconut
1 tablespoon finely chopped peeled fresh ginger
1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh jalapeño including seeds (from 1 chile)
3 tablespoons vegetable oil
4 cups water
1 teaspoon salt
2 cups packed fresh cilantro sprigs
4 scallions, chopped (1 cup)

Put oven rack in middle position and preheat oven to 350°F.

Wash rice in several changes of cold water in a bowl until water is almost clear. Soak rice in cold water 30 minutes, then drain well in a sieve.

Spread coconut in a shallow baking pan and toast in oven, stirring occasionally, until pale golden, 10 to 12 minutes. Cool completely.

Cook ginger and jalapeño in 1 tablespoon oil in a 4-quart heavy pot over moderate heat, stirring, until chile is softened, about 2 minutes. Add rice and cook, stirring, until fragrant, about 2 minutes. Stir in water and 1/2 teaspoon salt and bring to a boil, covered. Reduce heat to low and cook, covered, until rice is tender and water is absorbed, 12 to 15 minutes.

Remove from heat and let stand, covered, 5 minutes. Fluff rice with a fork and transfer to a large bowl.

While rice cooks, pulse together coconut, cilantro, scallions, and remaining 2 tablespoons oil and 1/2 teaspoon salt in a food processor until finely chopped.

Add cilantro mixture to cooked rice and stir gently until combined well.

Makes 10 servings.

Interesting sounding. I am still thinking of a way to use this.. Hahah.

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