Why You’ll Love Pineapple Rice Recipe

This Pineapple Rice stands out for its vibrant flavor and versatility. The sweetness of pineapple pairs perfectly with aromatic garlic and ginger, while a touch of heat adds depth without overpowering the dish. It’s quick enough for a weeknight meal yet impressive enough to serve at gatherings.

You’ll also appreciate how customizable it is. You can easily add vegetables or protein to make it heartier, adjust the spice level to suit your taste, and prepare it ahead of time for convenient meals throughout the week.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 tablespoon avocado oil or olive oil
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 2-inch piece fresh ginger, grated or minced
1 cup uncooked jasmine or basmati rice
2 cups fresh or frozen pineapple, chopped
1 tablespoon sriracha or red chili sauce
1 tablespoon coconut aminos or soy sauce
1 teaspoon coconut sugar or sweetener of choice
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon red chili flakes
1 1/2 cups water

Directions

Heat the oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, sautéing for about 3–5 minutes until fragrant.
Stir in the uncooked rice and toast it for about 2 minutes, allowing it to lightly brown and absorb the flavors.
Add the chopped pineapple, sriracha, coconut aminos, coconut sugar, salt, and red chili flakes. Stir well to combine.
Pour in the water and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
Reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is fully absorbed.
Remove from heat and let the rice sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4

Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 25–30 minutes
Total time: Approximately 30–35 minutes

Variations

For added color and texture, stir in diced bell peppers, peas, shredded carrots, or green onions.

To make it a complete meal, add cooked tofu, shrimp, or diced chicken. Simply mix the cooked protein into the rice during the final few minutes of cooking.

If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce or omit the chili flakes and sriracha. For a sweeter version, increase the pineapple slightly or add a touch more coconut sugar.

You can also swap jasmine rice for brown rice, though you’ll need to increase the cooking time and water accordingly.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover Pineapple Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2–3 months.

To reheat, warm in the microwave for 2–3 minutes, stirring halfway through. You can also reheat on the stovetop over medium heat with a small splash of water to prevent drying out. If reheating from frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but brown rice requires a longer cooking time and additional water. Adjust accordingly and cook until tender.

Is fresh pineapple better than frozen?

Fresh pineapple offers a brighter flavor and firmer texture, but frozen pineapple works very well and is convenient.

How spicy is this recipe?

It has a mild to moderate heat level. You can easily adjust the spice by increasing or decreasing the chili sauce and flakes.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, it stores well in the refrigerator and reheats easily, making it perfect for meal prep.

What proteins pair well with Pineapple Rice?

Grilled chicken, shrimp, tofu, or even scrambled eggs complement the flavors beautifully.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, simply use coconut aminos or certified gluten-free soy sauce.

What type of rice works best?

Jasmine rice is ideal for its fragrance and texture, but basmati rice is also a great option.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely. Bell peppers, peas, carrots, and green onions all work well in this dish.

How do I prevent the rice from becoming mushy?

Measure the water carefully and avoid lifting the lid while the rice is simmering to ensure proper cooking.

Can this be served cold?

While best served warm, it can also be enjoyed chilled as a refreshing rice salad.

Conclusion

Pineapple Rice is a simple yet flavorful dish that brings together sweet tropical notes and savory depth in a perfectly balanced way. Easy to customize and quick to prepare, it’s a versatile recipe that works for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or special occasions. Once you try it, this vibrant rice dish is sure to become a regular favorite in your kitchen.

Pineapple Rice

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A vibrant and flavorful pineapple rice dish made with fluffy rice, juicy pineapple chunks, colorful vegetables, and savory seasonings. This easy recipe delivers a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, making it a delicious side dish or light main course.

Author: Emily
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Category: Side Dish
Method: Stir-Fry
Cuisine: Asian
Diet: Vegetarian

Instructions

Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat.
Add diced onion and garlic, sauté until fragrant and translucent.
Stir in red bell pepper and peas and carrots; cook for 2–3 minutes until slightly tender.
Add pineapple chunks and cook for another 2 minutes.
Stir in the cooked rice, breaking up any clumps.
Season with soy sauce, sesame oil, curry powder, and black pepper. Mix well to combine.
Cook for 3–5 minutes, stirring frequently, until heated through.
Garnish with sliced green onions and roasted cashews before serving.

Notes

Use day-old rice for best texture and to prevent mushiness.
Fresh pineapple provides the best flavor, but canned (drained) can be used.
Add tofu for extra protein if serving as a main dish.
Adjust soy sauce to taste for desired saltiness.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 320 kcal
Sugar: 8 g
Sodium: 480 mg
Fat: 9 g
Saturated Fat: 1.5 g
Unsaturated Fat: 6.5 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 52 g
Fiber: 3 g
Protein: 7 g
Cholesterol: 0 mg