Sticky Pineapple Rice is incredibly versatile—it works as a main dish or a side, pairing well with grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu. It’s also easy to customize by adding vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or peas for a colorful and nutritious boost.
The vibrant presentation, combined with the tropical aroma, makes it a standout at any meal. Whether you’re craving a quick weeknight dinner or a flavorful side for a summer barbecue, Sticky Pineapple Rice delivers a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors that will leave everyone asking for more.
Sticky Pineapple Rice
Ingredients
- 1 cup asmine rice
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup diced pineapple
- 2 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 2 green onions
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds
Instructions
- Rinse the Rice: Rinse the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and prevents clumping.
- Cook the Rice: In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, coconut milk, and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce to low heat, cover, and simmer for 12–15 minutes until the liquid is absorbed.
- Add Flavor: Fluff the rice with a fork. Stir in the diced pineapple, soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, and salt. Let it cook uncovered for 2–3 minutes until the pineapple is heated through.
- Finish and Serve: Remove from heat and stir in chopped green onions. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds if desired.
Why You’ll Love Sticky Pineapple Rice
Sticky Pineapple Rice is the perfect blend of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors, making it an irresistible side dish or light meal. The sticky texture of the rice pairs beautifully with the juicy sweetness of pineapple, creating a delightful contrast in every bite. The natural sugars in the pineapple caramelize slightly when cooked, adding a rich depth of flavor that balances the saltiness of soy sauce and the warmth of garlic and ginger.
This dish is not only flavorful but also quick and easy to prepare. Using sticky rice (glutinous rice) ensures a chewy, satisfying texture that absorbs the sauce perfectly. The vibrant addition of colorful bell peppers, scallions, and toasted cashews adds crunch and freshness, while a dash of sesame oil brings out a subtle nuttiness.
Sticky Pineapple Rice is also highly versatile. You can enjoy it on its own or pair it with grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a complete meal. It’s naturally gluten-free and can be customized to suit different tastes by adjusting the sweetness or spice level. Whether served warm or chilled, this tropical-inspired dish is sure to become a crowd favorite at any gathering.
Sticky Pineapple Rice: Tips and Serving Tricks
Sticky pineapple rice is a vibrant, sweet, and savory dish that’s perfect as a side or main course. Balancing textures and flavors is key, and with these tips, you’ll achieve the perfect dish every time.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Sticky Pineapple Rice
- Choose the Right Rice:
- Use glutinous rice (sticky rice) for the signature chewy texture. Rinse it thoroughly to remove excess starch before cooking. If unavailable, jasmine rice can be a good alternative.
- Prepping the Pineapple:
- Fresh pineapple offers the best flavor, but canned pineapple in juice can also work well. If using fresh, hollow out the pineapple to create a bowl for serving — this adds a beautiful presentation.
- Balancing Flavors:
- Sticky pineapple rice thrives on the sweet-savory balance. Combine soy sauce, garlic, and a hint of ginger for depth, while brown sugar or honey enhances the sweetness.
- Perfect Cooking Technique:
- For sticky rice, steam it rather than boiling to maintain the chewy texture. If cooking in a rice cooker, add slightly less water than you would for standard rice.
- Stir-fry the cooked rice in a hot pan or wok to blend flavors, adding pineapple chunks toward the end to keep them fresh and juicy.
- Add Texture and Protein:
- Toss in cashews, almonds, or sesame seeds for crunch. For added protein, include diced chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
- Garnishing for Extra Flavor:
- Fresh cilantro, sliced green onions, and a squeeze of lime elevate the dish’s flavors beautifully.
Serving Tricks for Maximum Impact
- Pineapple Bowl Presentation:
- Serving the sticky pineapple rice inside a hollowed-out pineapple shell creates an eye-catching centerpiece. Just cut the pineapple in half, scoop out the flesh, and fill the hollow with your prepared rice.
- Colorful Add-Ins:
- Enhance visual appeal by adding diced red bell peppers, carrots, or peas for a pop of color.
- Portion Control:
- Sticky rice is dense and filling, so serve smaller portions with complementary dishes like grilled meats, spicy curries, or crisp salads.
- Make It a Crowd-Pleaser:
- Serve family-style in a large dish so guests can customize their servings with added toppings like chili flakes, lime wedges, or crushed peanuts.
- Pairing Suggestions:
- This dish pairs well with teriyaki chicken, grilled shrimp, or spicy tofu for a complete and satisfying meal.
Pro Tip:
For added richness, drizzle coconut milk over the rice just before serving — it enhances the tropical flavor and makes the dish even more decadent.
Key Ingredients Affecting Nutrition:
- White or Jasmine Rice – Primary source of carbohydrates and calories.
- Pineapple – Adds natural sweetness and vitamin C.
- Coconut Milk – Contributes to the fat content and creamy texture.
- Sugar or Honey – Increases sweetness and calorie count.
With these tips and tricks, your sticky pineapple rice will impress both in flavor and presentation, making it a standout at any gathering. Enjoy the perfect blend of sweet, savory, and sticky goodness!
