Name: Delicious Hawaiian Pineapple Rice: A Tropical Delight
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Hawaiian
Ingredients: 1 cup jasmine rice (or any long-grain white rice); 1 1/2 cups water or coconut milk (for extra flavor); 1 tablespoon sesame oil or vegetable oil; 1/2 cup diced pineapple (fresh or canned); 1/4 cup diced red bell pepper; 1/4 cup green onions (chopped); 1/4 cup diced carrots (optional for added crunch); 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free); 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional, for extra sweetness); 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper; 1/4 cup shredded coconut (optional, for extra tropical flavor)

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Hawaiian Pineapple Rice brings an irresistible tropical flavor to your dining table, combining sweetness and savoriness in every bite. This delightful dish is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a luau party, enjoying a family BBQ, or simply seeking a quick weeknight dinner. The vibrant colors and fresh ingredients will not only brighten up your plate but also tantalize your taste buds, making it a must-try recipe.

Why You’ll Love This Hawaiian Pineapple Rice

This Hawaiian Pineapple Rice is not just delicious; it’s incredibly versatile and easy to prepare. Here are a few reasons why you’ll adore this dish:

It features a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors, making it a crowd-pleaser.
The colorful ingredients add a visual appeal to your meals.
This recipe can be easily adapted to fit various dietary needs, such as vegetarian or gluten-free.
It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, seafood, or as a standalone dish.
Preparation time is minimal, allowing you to whip it up in just 30 minutes.
It’s a fantastic way to use leftover rice or fresh pineapple.
This dish is perfect for parties, bringing a taste of the tropics to your table.
For those wondering, “What is Hawaiian pineapple rice?” this recipe will clarify all your queries with its straightforward approach.

Ingredients for Hawaiian Pineapple Rice

Gather these items:

1 cup jasmine rice (or any long-grain white rice)
1 1/2 cups water or coconut milk (for extra flavor)
1 tablespoon sesame oil or vegetable oil
1/2 cup diced pineapple (fresh or canned)
1/4 cup diced red bell pepper
1/4 cup green onions (chopped)
1/4 cup diced carrots (optional for added crunch)
2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional, for extra sweetness)
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/4 cup shredded coconut (optional, for extra tropical flavor)

How to Make Hawaiian Pineapple Rice Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a medium saucepan, combine the rice and water (or coconut milk). Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and fluff with a fork.
Step 2: In a large skillet, heat the sesame oil over medium heat. Add the diced red bell pepper, carrots (if using), and chopped green onions. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are softened but still vibrant.
Step 3: Add the cooked rice to the skillet, along with the diced pineapple. Stir well to combine. Pour in the soy sauce, brown sugar (if using), and ground black pepper. Stir to combine, ensuring the rice is evenly coated with the sauce.
Step 4: Optional: Stir in shredded coconut for extra texture and tropical flavor. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to heat everything through.
Step 5: Serve your Hawaiian Pineapple Rice as a side dish with your favorite Aloha Pineapple Chicken Rice Casserole or grilled meats. Garnish with extra green onions, pineapple slices, or even toasted coconut for a fun, festive touch.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Hawaiian Pineapple Rice

Keep these in mind:

Perfect for BBQs, luau parties, or a weeknight dinner.
You can adjust sweetness by adding or omitting brown sugar based on your preference.
For added protein, consider mixing in grilled shrimp or chicken.

Best Ways to Serve Hawaiian Pineapple Rice

Here are some excellent serving ideas:

Pair it with Hawaiian rice with pineapple and shrimp for a delightful meal.
Serve it alongside grilled chicken or pork for a complete feast.
Use it as a base for a fruity Hawaiian rice bowl topped with fresh vegetables.

How to Store and Reheat Hawaiian Pineapple Rice

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave until warm, adding a splash of water or coconut milk to restore moisture. This makes it a fantastic option for meal prep or quick lunches.

Frequently Asked Questions About Hawaiian Pineapple Rice

What goes well with Hawaiian pineapple rice?

This tropical dish pairs well with grilled meats, seafood, or as part of a larger buffet spread for parties. Consider serving it with Hawaiian pineapple fried rice for a delightful fusion experience.

Can I make Hawaiian pineapple rice ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the rice a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat when you’re ready to serve, ensuring it’s hot and delicious.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Hawaiian pineapple rice?

To avoid mushy rice, ensure you follow the cooking times precisely. Also, don’t skip the fluffing step after cooking; it helps separate the grains for better texture.

Variations of Hawaiian Pineapple Rice You Can Try

Here are some fun variations to consider:

For a richer flavor, try a pineapple coconut rice recipe using coconut milk instead of water.
Add in more vegetables like peas and corn for a colorful twist.
Make a pineapple fried rice with cashews for added crunch and nutty flavor.

Delicious Hawaiian Pineapple Rice: A Tropical Delight

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Delicious Hawaiian Pineapple Rice brings a tropical twist to your meal with a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors.

Author: Emily
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Side Dish
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Hawaiian
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup jasmine rice (or any long-grain white rice)
1 1/2 cups water or coconut milk (for extra flavor)
1 tablespoon sesame oil or vegetable oil
1/2 cup diced pineapple (fresh or canned)
1/4 cup diced red bell pepper
1/4 cup green onions (chopped)
1/4 cup diced carrots (optional for added crunch)
2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional, for extra sweetness)
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/4 cup shredded coconut (optional, for extra tropical flavor)

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Instructions

In a medium saucepan, combine the rice and water (or coconut milk). Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and fluff with a fork.
In a large skillet, heat the sesame oil over medium heat. Add the diced red bell pepper, carrots (if using), and chopped green onions. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are softened but still vibrant.
Add the cooked rice to the skillet, along with the diced pineapple. Stir well to combine. Pour in the soy sauce, brown sugar (if using), and ground black pepper. Stir to combine, ensuring the rice is evenly coated with the sauce.
Optional: Stir in shredded coconut for extra texture and tropical flavor. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to heat everything through.
Serve your Hawaiian Pineapple Rice as a side dish with your favorite Aloha Pineapple Chicken Rice Casserole or grilled meats. Garnish with extra green onions, pineapple slices, or even toasted coconut for a fun, festive touch.