Are you looking for a quick and easy recipe to elevate your weeknight dinners? Tired of the same old side dishes? Then look no further! This Pineapple Coconut Rice recipe is a vibrant and delicious alternative to plain rice, adding a burst of tropical flavor to any meal. It's surprisingly simple to make, healthy, and perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave something delicious and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. This recipe is a testament to how easy it is to create flavorful, homemade cooking with minimal effort.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1 (20-ounce) can crushed pineapple, undrained
- 1 (13.5-ounce) can full-fat coconut milk
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar (or to taste)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Instructions:
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Rinse the rice: Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming sticky.
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Combine ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, undrained crushed pineapple, coconut milk, water, brown sugar, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir well to ensure all ingredients are thoroughly mixed.
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Bring to a boil: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
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Simmer and steam: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan tightly, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until all the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender. Do not lift the lid during this time to allow the rice to steam properly.
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Fluff and garnish: Once cooked, remove the saucepan from the heat and let it stand, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice gently with a fork and stir in the chopped cilantro.
Tips for the Best Pineapple Coconut Rice:
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For a richer flavor: Use full-fat coconut milk. Light coconut milk will result in a thinner, less flavorful dish.
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Adjust sweetness: Taste the rice before adding the cilantro and adjust the brown sugar according to your preference. Some may prefer a sweeter, while others may prefer a more subtle sweetness.
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Add some spice: For a kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
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Make it vegan: This recipe is naturally vegan.
Variations:
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Pineapple chunks: Instead of crushed pineapple, use fresh pineapple chunks for a more textural experience. Just be sure to chop them into small pieces so they cook evenly.
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Mango coconut rice: Substitute mango for pineapple for a different tropical twist.
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Add protein: Boost the protein content by adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas.
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Different herbs: Experiment with other herbs like mint or basil instead of cilantro.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 40-45g
- Protein: 3-5g
This delicious and easy Pineapple Coconut Rice recipe is perfect as a healthy and flavorful side dish for grilled chicken, fish, or tofu. It's also a great addition to your favorite curries or as a stand-alone vegetarian meal. Enjoy the taste of the tropics with this simple yet elegant dish!