Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Pineapple Rice is a vibrant, flavorful dish that strikes a beautiful balance between sweet and savory. Juicy pineapple adds brightness and natural sweetness, while fragrant rice and gentle seasonings create a comforting base that works as both a side dish and a light main. I first made this recipe when I wanted something different from plain rice but still easy enough for a weeknight, and it quickly became a favorite. The pineapple keeps the dish fresh and lively, while the rice absorbs all the flavors for a satisfying bite every time. This recipe is wonderfully versatile, pairing well with grilled meats, seafood, or plant-based proteins. It is also quick to prepare and uses simple ingredients, making it a reliable option when you want something colorful, aromatic, and crowd-pleasing without much effort.
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Pineapple Rice: Sweet, Savory, and Perfectly Balanced Comfort
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A fragrant and lightly sweet pineapple rice made with fluffy rice, juicy pineapple, and savory seasonings for a perfect balance of sweet and savory.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked jasmine or basmati rice
- 1 cup fresh or canned pineapple chunks, drained
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp chopped green onions
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat.
- Add onion and sauté until softened.
- Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add pineapple chunks and cook for 2–3 minutes.
- Stir in cooked rice, breaking up any clumps.
- Add soy sauce, sugar, and black pepper; toss well to combine.
- Cook for 3–4 minutes until rice is heated through.
- Garnish with green onions and cilantro if desired.
- Serve warm.
Notes
- Use day-old rice for best texture.
- Add cashews or raisins for extra flavor.
- Can be served as a side or light main dish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Ingredients Breakdown
Rice forms the foundation of the dish. Long-grain rice stays fluffy and separate, making it ideal for mixing with pineapple.
Pineapple adds natural sweetness and juiciness that defines the dish. Fresh or canned pineapple both work well.
Butter or oil provides richness and helps carry flavor through the rice.
Onion adds gentle sweetness and depth as it cooks.
Garlic enhances the savory notes and balances the fruitiness of the pineapple.
Chicken or vegetable broth adds flavor to the rice while keeping it moist and aromatic.
Salt balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
Black pepper adds mild warmth and depth.
Soy sauce adds subtle umami and a savory contrast to the pineapple.
Green onions add freshness and light onion flavor just before serving.
Optional peas or bell peppers add color and texture.
Optional ginger adds warmth and a hint of spice that pairs beautifully with pineapple.
Directions
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Begin by cooking the rice according to package instructions, using broth instead of water for extra flavor. Once cooked, fluff with a fork and set aside.
Heat butter or oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened and translucent. Stir in the garlic and optional ginger, cooking briefly until fragrant.
Add the pineapple to the skillet and cook for a few minutes until lightly caramelized and fragrant. Stir in the soy sauce and black pepper.
Add the cooked rice to the skillet and gently toss until evenly combined with the pineapple mixture. If using peas or bell peppers, fold them in at this stage.
Season with salt to taste and cook briefly until everything is heated through and well combined.
Remove from heat and garnish with sliced green onions before serving.
Equipment needed
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.
3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation takes about 10 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 20 minutes.
Storage/reheating
Store leftover Pineapple Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed to loosen the rice.
Variations and Customizations
Pineapple Rice is easy to adapt. You can add cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu to turn it into a complete meal. I tested it with shrimp, and the sweet pineapple paired beautifully with the savory seafood.
For a spicier version, add chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce. If you prefer a richer flavor, stir in a small amount of coconut milk for a tropical twist.
Vegetables can be adjusted based on preference. Carrots, corn, or snap peas all work well. For extra crunch, toasted cashews or peanuts make a great topping.
This dish also works well as a base for stir-fries or served alongside grilled meats and roasted vegetables.
Nutrition and Dietary Info
Pineapple Rice is a carbohydrate-rich dish that provides energy from rice and natural sugars from pineapple. When paired with protein and vegetables, it becomes a balanced and satisfying meal option.
Expert Tips & Customizations
Use Day-Old Rice
Slightly cooled rice prevents clumping and improves texture.
Do Not Overcook Pineapple
Brief cooking keeps the pineapple juicy and fresh.
Season Gradually
Balance sweetness and salt carefully for best flavor.
FAQs
Can I use canned pineapple?
Yes, drain it well before using.
Is this dish sweet?
It is mildly sweet with a savory balance.
Can I make it vegan?
Yes, use oil and vegetable broth.
What rice works best?
Long-grain or jasmine rice works best.
Can I add protein?
Yes, chicken, shrimp, or tofu work well.
Is this dish kid-friendly?
Yes, the flavors are mild and appealing.
Can I freeze Pineapple Rice?
Freezing is not recommended due to texture changes.
Can I add eggs?
Yes, scrambled eggs can be stirred in.
What pairs well with this?
Grilled chicken, fish, or roasted vegetables pair nicely.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, reheat gently before serving.
Conclusion
Pineapple Rice is a bright, flavorful dish that brings sweetness, warmth, and comfort to the table. Easy to prepare and endlessly adaptable, it is a reliable recipe that transforms simple rice into something memorable, making it perfect for both everyday meals and special occasions.
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