Tropical Coconut Pineapple Rice Recipe

Introduction

This Tropical Coconut Pineapple Rice is a fragrant and vibrant side dish that brings a taste of the islands to your table. Combining creamy coconut milk with sweet pineapple and a touch of lime makes it a perfect companion for grilled meats or a refreshing vegetarian option.

Ingredients

• 1 cup jasmine rice (or basmati)
• 1 cup full-fat canned coconut milk
• ½ cup water
• 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned, drained)
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ⅓ cup toasted shredded coconut
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Rinse the rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
2. Step 2: In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, coconut milk, water, and salt.
3. Step 3: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stir once to prevent sticking, then cover and reduce the heat to low.
4. Step 4: Let it simmer gently for 15–18 minutes, or until the liquid is fully absorbed and the rice is tender.
5. Step 5: Turn off the heat and allow the rice to sit, covered, for 5 minutes to steam.
6. Step 6: Fluff the rice with a fork, then carefully fold in the pineapple chunks and lime juice for a fresh, tangy twist.
7. Step 7: Sprinkle the toasted shredded coconut and chopped cilantro over the top to add texture and a burst of flavor.
8. Step 8: Serve the rice warm, chilled, or at room temperature as a delightful side or light meal.

Tips & Variations

• For an extra tropical touch, add diced mango or papaya along with the pineapple.
• Use brown jasmine rice for a nuttier flavor and added fiber, but increase cooking time accordingly.
• Garnish with toasted cashews or macadamia nuts for a crunchy contrast.
• If you prefer a zestier flavor, increase the lime juice to 2 tablespoons.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water to moisten the rice and warm gently on the stovetop or microwave to prevent drying out.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use different types of rice for this recipe?

Yes, jasmine or basmati rice works best for their aroma and texture, but you can substitute with other long-grain rice varieties. Keep in mind that cooking times and liquid ratios may vary.

Is it necessary to use full-fat coconut milk?

Full-fat coconut milk provides the rich, creamy texture and flavor crucial to this dish. Light coconut milk can be used but may result in a thinner consistency and less pronounced coconut taste.

Tropical Coconut Pineapple Rice Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.4 from 66 reviews

This Tropical Coconut Pineapple Rice is a fragrant and flavorful side dish that combines creamy coconut milk, sweet pineapple chunks, and toasted shredded coconut. Perfectly cooked jasmine rice is infused with tropical flavors and finished with a hint of lime and fresh cilantro, creating a delicious accompaniment to a variety of meals or a refreshing standalone dish.

• Author: Isla
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Tropical/Asian Fusion
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Rice and Liquid

• 1 cup jasmine rice (or basmati)
• 1 cup full-fat canned coconut milk
• ½ cup water
• ¼ teaspoon salt

Mix-ins and Toppings

• 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned, drained)
• ⅓ cup toasted shredded coconut
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro (optional)

Instructions

1. Rinse Rice: Rinse the jasmine rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch for fluffier rice.
2. Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, add the rinsed rice, coconut milk, water, and salt, stirring to combine.
3. Bring to Boil: Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring once to prevent sticking.
4. Simmer Rice: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let the rice simmer gently for 15–18 minutes or until all the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
5. Let Sit: Turn off the heat and keep the saucepan covered. Let the rice sit undisturbed for 5 minutes to steam and finish cooking.
6. Fluff and Mix: Fluff the cooked rice with a fork then gently fold in the pineapple chunks and lime juice to incorporate the tropical flavors evenly.
7. Add Toppings: Sprinkle the toasted shredded coconut and chopped cilantro on top for added texture and freshness.
8. Serve: Serve the dish warm, chilled, or at room temperature depending on your preference.

Notes

• Use jasmine rice or basmati rice for best texture and flavor.
• To toast shredded coconut, spread it in a dry skillet over medium heat and stir frequently until golden brown.
• Fresh pineapple provides a juicier texture, but canned pineapple works well if drained thoroughly.
• Adjust lime juice amount to taste for desired brightness.
• For a vegan option, ensure the coconut milk is plant-based and no animal products are added.
• This dish can be made ahead and served cold for a refreshing salad-style side.

Keywords: coconut rice, pineapple rice, tropical rice recipe, jasmine rice, coconut milk rice, side dish, vegetarian, easy rice recipe