Tropical Coconut Pineapple Rice Recipe

Introduction

This Tropical Coconut Pineapple Rice is a fragrant and flavorful side dish that perfectly balances creamy coconut with sweet pineapple. It’s simple to make and brings a refreshing twist to your meal, ideal for pairing with grilled meats or enjoying on its own.

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, stirring once to prevent sticking. Then cover and reduce the heat to low.
4. Step 4: Let the rice simmer for 15–18 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
5. Step 5: Turn off the heat and let the rice sit, covered, for 5 minutes to finish steaming.
6. Step 6: Fluff the rice gently with a fork. Fold in the pineapple chunks and lime juice evenly.
7. Step 7: Sprinkle the toasted shredded coconut and chopped cilantro over the top for garnish.
8. Step 8: Serve the rice warm, chilled, or at room temperature according to your preference.

Tips & Variations

• Use fresh pineapple for a brighter flavor or canned pineapple for convenience—just be sure to drain well.
• Swap cilantro for chopped mint or basil to give the dish a different herbal note.
• Toast the shredded coconut yourself in a dry pan over medium heat until golden for extra crunch and aroma.
• Add a pinch of chili flakes or diced fresh chili for a subtle spicy kick.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to restore moisture. This rice can also be enjoyed cold or at room temperature, making it versatile for meals ahead.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of rice for this recipe?

Yes, jasmine and basmati rice work best for their fragrance and texture, but you can use other long-grain rice varieties. Just adjust cooking time as needed.

Is it necessary to toast the shredded coconut?

Toasting the coconut is optional, but it adds a lovely nutty flavor and crunchy texture that complements the dish beautifully.

Tropical Coconut Pineapple Rice Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 81 reviews

A delightful Tropical Coconut Pineapple Rice recipe combining fragrant jasmine rice cooked in rich coconut milk with sweet pineapple chunks, toasted shredded coconut, and a hint of lime juice. This flavorful dish is perfect as a refreshing side or light main, enjoyed warm or chilled.

• Author: Lisa
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 18 minutes
• Total Time: 33 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Tropical, Fusion
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Rice Base

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

Flavorings & 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 the Rice: Rinse the jasmine rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch for fluffy rice.
2. Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, coconut milk, water, and salt, mixing gently.
3. Bring to Boil: Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring once to prevent sticking.
4. Simmer the Rice: Once boiling, cover the saucepan and reduce heat to low. Let the rice simmer gently for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
5. Rest the Rice: Turn off the heat and keep the pot covered, allowing the rice to sit and steam for 5 minutes for optimal texture.
6. Fluff and Add Pineapple: Fluff the rice with a fork, then gently fold in the pineapple chunks and lime juice to combine flavors.
7. Add Toppings: Sprinkle the toasted shredded coconut and chopped cilantro over the rice for added texture and freshness.
8. Serve: Serve the tropical coconut pineapple rice warm, chilled, or at room temperature according to preference.

Notes

• Use fresh or canned pineapple chunks based on availability; if canned, drain well to avoid excess moisture.
• To toast shredded coconut, spread it evenly on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes or until golden brown, stirring occasionally.
• Jasmine rice is preferred for its fragrance but basmati rice works well too.
• Adjust lime juice to taste for more tanginess.
• Optional chopped cilantro adds a fresh herbal note but can be omitted if preferred.
• This dish can be enjoyed as a side with grilled meats or as a light vegetarian entree.

Keywords: coconut rice, pineapple rice, tropical rice, jasmine rice recipe, coconut milk rice, toasted coconut, lime rice