Escape to the tropics with this incredibly delicious Coconut Pineapple Rice. This recipe transforms simple rice into a creamy, fragrant, and slightly sweet side dish that will elevate any meal. We combine fragrant jasmine rice with rich coconut milk and juicy pineapple tidbits for a flavor combination that’s simply irresistible. Forget boring side dishes; this is the one your family and friends will ask for again and again. It’s the perfect, easy-to-make accompaniment for everything from weeknight dinners to summer barbecues.
Whether you’re a seasoned pro in the kitchen or just starting out, this recipe is designed to be foolproof. In just about 30 minutes, you can have a restaurant-quality side dish that tastes like it took hours to prepare. Let’s dive in and make this stunning tropical rice together!
Why You’ll Love This Coconut Pineapple Rice Recipe
This isn’t just another rice dish; it’s a flavor-packed experience. The creamy texture from the coconut milk perfectly balances the sweet and tangy notes of the pineapple, creating a harmonious and satisfying side. It’s incredibly versatile, pairing beautifully with a wide range of main courses, and it brings a touch of exotic flair to your dinner table with minimal effort.
- Incredibly Flavorful: The combination of coconut and pineapple is a classic for a reason. It’s the perfect blend of sweet, savory, and tropical.
- Quick & Easy: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this dish is ready in under 30 minutes.
- Super Versatile: It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, spicy curries, and seafood.
- Crowd-Pleaser: This is a unique and memorable side dish that is always a hit at gatherings and potlucks.
The Key Ingredients for Perfect Tropical Rice
The magic of this dish lies in its simple yet powerful ingredients. Using high-quality components will make a significant difference in the final taste and texture. Here’s what you need and why:
Choosing Your Rice
For the best texture and aroma, I highly recommend using a long-grain white rice. Jasmine rice is my top pick because its delicate floral aroma complements the coconut and pineapple beautifully. Basmati rice is another excellent option. While you can use standard long-grain white rice, avoid short-grain varieties like Arborio, as they will result in a much stickier, risotto-like texture.
Full-Fat vs. Light Coconut Milk
For the creamiest, most luxurious result, you must use canned, full-fat coconut milk. The higher fat content creates a richer sauce that coats every grain of rice. Light coconut milk will work in a pinch, but the final dish will be less creamy and the coconut flavor will be less pronounced.
Fresh vs. Canned Pineapple
Both fresh and canned pineapple work well in this recipe, so you can use what you have on hand. Canned pineapple tidbits are convenient and provide a consistent sweetness. If using canned, be sure to drain them well. Fresh pineapple will offer a brighter, tangier flavor. Just be sure to dice it into small, bite-sized pieces.
How to Make Coconut Pineapple Rice (Step-by-Step)
This recipe is as simple as cooking regular rice, but with a major flavor upgrade. By following these easy steps, you’ll have a perfect pot of tropical rice every time. The key is to bring the liquid to a simmer, add the rice, then cover it and let the steam do the work.
- Rinse the Rice: Place the jasmine rice in a fine-mesh sieve and rinse it under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming gummy.
- Combine Liquids: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the full-fat coconut milk, water, and salt. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
- Cook the Rice: Stir in the rinsed rice. Once the mixture returns to a simmer, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan tightly with a lid, and cook for 15-18 minutes, or until the liquid has been absorbed.
- Rest and Fluff: Remove the pan from the heat and let it stand, covered, for 10 minutes. This step is crucial for perfectly fluffy rice! After resting, gently fold in the drained pineapple tidbits.
- Serve: Fluff the rice with a fork, garnish with toasted coconut and fresh cilantro if desired, and serve warm.
Expert Tips for Foolproof Success
Achieve rice perfection with these simple but effective tips from our kitchen.
- Don’t Skip the Rinse: Rinsing the rice is the most important step for achieving fluffy, distinct grains.
- Avoid Peeking: Once the rice is covered, resist the urge to lift the lid! This releases the steam that is essential for cooking the rice evenly.
- Let It Rest: The 10-minute resting period off the heat allows the rice to finish steaming and absorb any remaining moisture, ensuring it doesn’t get mushy.
- Toast the Coconut: For an extra layer of flavor and texture, toast some shredded coconut in a dry skillet over medium-low heat until golden and fragrant. Sprinkle it over the finished dish.
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Delicious Variations to Try
While this Coconut Pineapple Rice is fantastic as is, it’s also a great base for customization. Here are a few ideas to make it your own:
- Add Fresh Herbs: Stir in some chopped fresh cilantro or mint at the end for a burst of freshness.
- A Touch of Citrus: A squeeze of fresh lime juice and a bit of lime zest stirred in after cooking will brighten up all the flavors.
- Make it Nutty: Add some toasted cashews or macadamia nuts for a delicious crunch.
- Spice it Up: For a hint of warmth, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a finely minced jalapeño with the liquids.
What to Serve with Coconut Pineapple Rice
This tropical side dish is incredibly versatile. It’s the perfect partner for spicy and savory mains, as its subtle sweetness cools the palate. Try serving it alongside a flavorful Thai Chicken Coconut Curry to complement the coconut notes. It’s also fantastic with grilled dishes like jerk chicken, shrimp skewers, or these tender Grilled BBQ Chicken Thighs. For a complete and easy weeknight meal, pair it with a simple Teriyaki Chicken Bowl.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftover rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place the rice in a microwave-safe bowl, sprinkle with a tablespoon of water to add moisture, cover, and microwave for 1-2 minutes or until heated through. You can also reheat it in a saucepan over low heat with a splash of water.
Frequently Asked Questions
Absolutely! Simply rinse the rice, then add it along with the coconut milk, water, and salt to your rice cooker. Give it a quick stir, and cook according to your manufacturer’s instructions for white rice. Stir in the pineapple after it’s finished cooking.
Yes, you can use brown rice, but you will need to adjust the cooking time and liquid amount. Brown rice typically requires more water (or coconut milk) and a longer cooking time, usually around 40-45 minutes. Follow the package directions for the best results.
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, it’s best to add a splash of water to rehydrate the rice and microwave until warm.
This Coconut Pineapple Rice strikes a beautiful balance between sweet and savory. The coconut milk provides a creamy, savory base, while the pineapple adds a touch of natural sweetness, making it a complex and delicious side dish rather than a dessert.
This dish is incredibly versatile! It pairs perfectly with grilled chicken, shrimp, or fish. It’s also a wonderful accompaniment to spicy dishes like Thai or Caribbean curries, as the creamy sweetness helps balance the heat.
Enjoy This Taste of the Tropics!
We hope you love this easy and delicious Coconut Pineapple Rice recipe. It’s a simple way to bring a little sunshine to your dinner table. If you try it, let us know how it turned out in the comments below! We love hearing from you. For more recipe inspiration, be sure to follow us on Pinterest!
If you’re looking for more comforting and easy side dishes, be sure to check out our recipe for a delightful Creamy Fruit Salad or our comforting Cowboy Queso Dip.
Coconut Pineapple Rice Recipe
Coconut Pineapple Rice: The Only Tropical Side Dish You Need
Ingredients
Equipment
Instructions
- Place the jasmine rice in a fine-mesh sieve and rinse under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain thoroughly.
- In a medium saucepan, whisk together the full-fat coconut milk, water, and salt. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
- Stir in the rinsed rice. Once the mixture returns to a simmer, reduce the heat to the lowest setting, cover tightly with a lid, and cook for 15-18 minutes, or until all the liquid has been fully absorbed.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and let it stand, still covered, for 10 minutes. Do not lift the lid during this time.
- After resting, gently fold in the drained pineapple tidbits. Fluff the rice with a fork. Garnish with toasted coconut and fresh cilantro if desired, and serve warm.
Notes
For extra flavor, try adding a squeeze of fresh lime juice after fluffing the rice.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
