01 - Place jasmine rice in a fine-mesh strainer and rinse under cold running water until the water runs clear. Drain thoroughly to remove excess starch.
02 - Transfer rinsed rice to a medium saucepan. Add coconut milk, water, salt, and sugar. Stir gently to distribute ingredients evenly.
03 - Place saucepan over medium heat and bring mixture to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
04 - Reduce heat to low and cover saucepan tightly with lid. Simmer for 15 minutes without lifting lid to ensure proper steaming.
05 - Remove saucepan from heat. Keep covered and let rice rest for 10 minutes to complete cooking process and achieve fluffy texture.
06 - Uncover saucepan and fluff rice gently with fork, taking care not to mash grains. Transfer to serving bowl and top with toasted coconut flakes and fresh cilantro or scallions if desired.