Ingredients

  • 1 cup basmati rice
  • 1/4 cup sweetened flaked coconut
  • 1 tsp finely chopped peeled fresh ginger
  • 1 tsp finely chopped fresh jalapeno including seeds
  • 3 tsp vegetable oil, divided
  • 1 1/3 cups water
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 2/3 cups packed fresh cilantro sprigs
  • 2 scallions, chopped (1 cup)

Method

  • 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, 6-7 minutes. Watch carefully to make sure it doesn't burn, then cool completely.
  • Cook ginger and jalapeno in 1 tsp 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 1/4 tsp 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 tsp and 1/4 teaspoon salt in a food processor until finely chopped.
  • Add cilantro mixture to cooked rice and stir gently until combined well.