Why Make This Recipe
Coconut Pineapple Rice is a delightful dish that brings the tropics right to your dining table. This recipe combines the rich sweetness of pineapple with creamy coconut milk, creating a flavor combination that is both refreshing and satisfying. It’s perfect for pairing with grilled meats, fish, or enjoying as a light main dish on its own. Not only does it taste great, but it is also simple to prepare and makes a lovely side for gatherings or a weeknight dinner.
How to Make Coconut Pineapple Rice
Making Coconut Pineapple Rice is straightforward and requires just a few ingredients. With the right steps, you can enjoy this delicious dish in about 30 minutes. Follow along with these easy-to-understand instructions.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup jasmine rice
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1 cup pineapple juice
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup diced pineapple
- 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro (optional)
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Directions:
Rinse the Rice: Begin by rinsing the jasmine rice under cold water. This helps remove excess starch, ensuring your rice will be fluffy and not sticky. Rinse until the water runs clear.
Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine the coconut milk, pineapple juice, sugar, and salt. Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring it to a simmer. Stir the mixture once or twice to help dissolve the sugar.
Add the Rice: Once the mixture is simmering, add the rinsed jasmine rice. Stir well to combine all the ingredients evenly.
Cook the Rice: After adding the rice, cover the saucepan with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Let the rice cook for about 15-20 minutes. During this time, the rice will absorb the coconut and pineapple flavors.
Check the Rice: After about 15 minutes, check the rice for tenderness. If it’s done, turn off the heat. If it still needs a little more time, let it cook for an additional few minutes.
Fluff and Add Pineapple: Once the rice is soft and has absorbed all the liquids, use a fork to fluff it gently. Then, fold in the diced pineapple carefully to avoid breaking the rice grains.
Garnish and Serve: If you’d like, sprinkle chopped cilantro on top for a fresh flavor. Serve the Coconut Pineapple Rice warm as a side dish or a light main.
How to Serve Coconut Pineapple Rice
Coconut Pineapple Rice is versatile and can be served in many ways:
As a Side Dish: This rice pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, shrimp, or pork. The tropical flavors complement savory meats well.
With Fresh Ingredients: Consider topping the rice with fresh vegetables, such as avocado slices, for added texture and flavor.
In a Bowl: For a delicious vegetarian meal, serve it in a bowl with black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes.
As a Salad Base: You can also chill the rice and use it as a base for a tropical salad, adding ingredients like diced mango, bell peppers, and a squeeze of lime juice.
How to Store Coconut Pineapple Rice
Storing Coconut Pineapple Rice is simple:
In the Fridge: Allow the rice to cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for about 3-4 days.
Reheating: To reheat, add a splash of water to the rice to prevent it from drying out. Heat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.
Freezing: You can also freeze the rice for longer storage. Place it in a freezer-safe container or bag, and it will last up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Tips to Make Coconut Pineapple Rice
Using Fresh Pineapple: For the best flavor, use fresh pineapple. It adds a bright, sweet taste compared to canned.
Spice It Up: Feel free to add spices like cinnamon or a hint of ginger for a warm aromatic twist.
Vegetarian Option: Make sure your pineapple juice is 100% fruit juice and does not contain added sugars or preservatives for the healthiest option.
Adjust Sweetness: If you like your rice sweeter, consider increasing the amount of sugar or using sweetened coconut milk.
Herb Variations: While cilantro adds freshness, you can also use fresh mint or basil for a different flavor profile.
Variation
There are many ways to tweak this recipe based on your personal preferences:
Tropical Twist: Add other fruit like diced mango or shredded coconut for added flavor and texture.
Nutty Flavor: Stir in some toasted cashews or sliced almonds for a crunchy element.
Curry Flavor: For a savory spin, mix in some curry powder while preparing the rice, which adds a wonderful depth and can be complemented with grilled shrimp.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of jasmine rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but keep in mind that it will require longer cooking time and more liquid. Adjust the cooking time to approximately 40-45 minutes for brown rice.
Is it necessary to rinse the rice?
Yes, rinsing the rice is highly recommended. It removes excess starch, which can lead to sticky rice. Rinsing results in a fluffier texture.
Can I make Coconut Pineapple Rice in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare this rice a day in advance. Just ensure it is sealed well in an airtight container and stored in the fridge. It will taste great the next day after being reheated.
What can I serve with Coconut Pineapple Rice?
This dish pairs well with a variety of mains, including grilled meats, seafood, or can be enjoyed alone as a vegetarian option. It also works well when served with a tropical salad or beans.
Coconut Pineapple Rice is a delightful dish that is easy to make and sure to please. Whether serving it at a gathering or enjoying it as a family dinner, it offers a taste of paradise that will leave everyone wanting more.
Print
Coconut Pineapple Rice
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
Coconut Pineapple Rice is a delightful dish that combines the rich sweetness of pineapple with creamy coconut milk. It’s perfect as a side or a light main dish.
Ingredients
- 1 cup jasmine rice
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1 cup pineapple juice
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup diced pineapple
- 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro (optional)
Instructions
- Rinse the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
- In a medium saucepan, combine coconut milk, pineapple juice, sugar, and salt. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
- Add the rinsed jasmine rice and stir to combine.
- Cover the saucepan, reduce heat to low, and cook for 15-20 minutes until the rice has absorbed the flavors.
- Check the rice for tenderness, cooking a few more minutes if necessary.
- Once done, fluff the rice with a fork and fold in the diced pineapple.
- Garnish with cilantro and serve warm.
Notes
For best flavor, use fresh pineapple. Add spices for a twist and adjust sweetness to taste.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Tropical
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 41g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg