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Tropical Coconut Pineapple Rice 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.

Ingredients

Scale

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