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If you’re searching for a vibrant, flavorful dish that bursts with tropical goodness, look no further than this Pineapple Rice Recipe. It combines the sweet juiciness of pineapple with fragrant jasmine or basmati rice, uplifted by warm garlic, zingy ginger, and a subtle kick of spice. This dish is a simple yet spectacular way to brighten your mealtime, delivering a perfect balance between sweet, savory, and spicy in every bite. Whether you’re serving it as a main or a side, this Pineapple Rice Recipe is sure to become a comforting staple you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Pineapple Rice Recipe lies in its simplicity and how each ingredient plays a crucial role in crafting a harmonious dish. Every element not only builds flavor but contributes to texture and color, making this dish both delightful to eat and feast for the eyes.
- 1 tablespoon oil (avocado or olive): A neutral base to sauté and bring out the richness of aromatics without overpowering.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced: Adds a savory punch and depth of flavor that’s absolutely essential.
- 1 2-inch knob fresh ginger root, grated: Offers a bright, slightly spicy warmth that complements the pineapple perfectly.
- 1 cup uncooked white rice (Jasmine or Basmati): Your rice choice matters here; jasmine or basmati delivers fragrant grains that stay fluffy and separate.
- 2 cups fresh or frozen pineapple, chopped: Brings natural sweetness and a juicy texture, giving the recipe its tropical soul.
- 1 tablespoon sriracha: Provides a gentle heat and tang that balances the sweetness beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon coconut aminos (or soy sauce): Adds savory umami and saltiness to tie all flavors together.
- 1 teaspoon coconut sugar: Enhances the pineapple’s sweetness with a subtle caramel note.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for rounding out and elevating every ingredient.
- ¼ teaspoon red chili flakes: Delivers a touch more heat and visual interest without overwhelming.
- 1½ cups water: The cooking liquid that softens the rice and helps infuse it with all the incredible flavors.
How to Make Pineapple Rice Recipe
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
Start by heating your chosen oil over medium heat, then toss in the minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté these aromatics slowly for about 5 minutes until they become soft and fragrant. This gentle cooking releases their full, enticing flavors that will set the tone for the whole dish.
Step 2: Toast the Rice
Next, add the uncooked rice directly into the pan with your garlic and ginger. Stir frequently and toast the rice for about 2 minutes. This simple step enhances its nuttiness and gives the grains a lovely texture that prevents clumping or becoming mushy once cooked.
Step 3: Add the Pineapple and Seasonings
Introduce the chopped pineapple to the pan along with sriracha, coconut aminos, coconut sugar, salt, and red chili flakes. Stir everything together and continue sautéing for another minute. This melds the sweet, spicy, and savory flavors beautifully so each bite is completely balanced.
Step 4: Simmer the Rice
Pour in the water and bring the mixture to a boil. After it boils, lower the heat to medium-low and cover the pan with a lid. Let the rice simmer gently for 15 minutes until the water is fully absorbed. This step is critical for ensuring the rice cooks perfectly and soaks up those amazing flavors.
Step 5: Let it Rest and Fluff
Once the cooking time is up, remove the pan from heat but keep it covered for an additional 5 minutes. This resting period allows the rice to steam and become tender all the way through. Finally, fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains and get ready to serve.
How to Serve Pineapple Rice Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped cilantro or green onions add a fresh pop of color and herbaceous brightness that complements the rich, sweet rice. Toasted cashews or sliced almonds bring a satisfying crunch, offering a nice contrast to the soft texture.
Side Dishes
This Pineapple Rice Recipe pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a complete and balanced meal. Add a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables to keep things light and refreshing alongside the fragrant rice.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your pineapple rice inside hollowed-out pineapple halves or sprinkle with pomegranate seeds for a jewel-like burst of flavor and color. You can also shape the rice using small bowls or molds for an elegant presentation that’s perfect for dinner parties.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover pineapple rice stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen over time, making it even more delicious the next day.
Freezing
If you want to keep the Pineapple Rice Recipe longer, freezing is an option. Just portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat the pineapple rice gently on the stove or in the microwave. Add a splash of water and cover while reheating to keep the rice moist and fluffy. Stir occasionally to distribute heat evenly and enjoy it as if freshly made.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice for this Pineapple Rice Recipe?
Absolutely! Brown rice will add a nuttier flavor and chewier texture, but keep in mind it needs a longer cooking time and more water. It’s a great option if you want a whole grain twist.
Is this recipe suitable for a vegan diet?
Yes, the Pineapple Rice Recipe is naturally vegan as it contains no animal products. Just make sure to use coconut aminos or a vegan soy sauce alternative.
Can I substitute sriracha with another type of chili sauce?
Definitely! Feel free to swap sriracha for any chili sauce or hot sauce you prefer. Just adjust the quantity according to your heat preference.
What type of rice works best in this recipe?
Jasmine or basmati rice are ideal because they are fragrant and cook up fluffy, which complements the sweet and spicy elements perfectly. Avoid sticky or short-grain varieties for this dish.
How can I make this dish less spicy?
Simply reduce or omit the sriracha and red chili flakes to suit your taste buds. The dish will still be deliciously flavorful thanks to the pineapple and aromatics.
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you give this Pineapple Rice Recipe a try soon because it’s one of those magical dishes that tastes complex but comes together so easily. It’s a cheerful, satisfying treat that adds a burst of sunshine to any meal. Once you make it, I bet it’ll become one of your go-to favorites too!
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Print
Pineapple Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 23 minutes
- Total Time: 28 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian Fusion
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A flavorful and vibrant Pineapple Rice recipe combining aromatic garlic and ginger with sweet pineapple and a hint of heat from sriracha and red chili flakes. Toasted jasmine or basmati rice cooked with savory coconut aminos and coconut sugar creates a perfectly balanced, tropical-inspired side dish ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon oil (avocado or olive)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 2-inch knob fresh ginger root, grated
- 1 cup uncooked white rice (Jasmine or Basmati)
- 2 cups fresh or frozen pineapple, chopped
- 1 tablespoon sriracha
- 1 tablespoon coconut aminos (or soy sauce)
- 1 teaspoon coconut sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon red chili flakes
- 1½ cups water
Instructions
- Heat oil and sauté aromatics: Heat the oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, sautéing for about 5 minutes until fragrant and softened, which releases their aromatic flavors.
- Toast the rice: Add the uncooked rice to the pan and stir frequently as you toast it for about 2 minutes. This step enhances the nuttiness of the rice and prevents it from becoming mushy.
- Add flavors: Stir in the chopped pineapple, sriracha, coconut aminos (or soy sauce), coconut sugar, salt, and red chili flakes. Continue to sauté for another minute to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Simmer the rice: Pour in the water, bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover the pan with a lid and let it simmer gently for about 15 minutes, or until the water is fully absorbed by the rice.
- Rest and fluff: Remove the pan from heat and keep it covered. Let the rice rest for 5 minutes to allow it to steam and finish cooking evenly. Finally, fluff the rice with a fork before serving to separate the grains.
Notes
- Use jasmine or basmati rice for best texture and aroma.
- If you prefer less heat, reduce or omit the red chili flakes and sriracha.
- Frozen pineapple can be used; no need to thaw before cooking.
- Adjust salt according to your preference or soy sauce saltiness.
- For a vegan version, ensure sriracha and other condiments are vegan-friendly.
