AROMATIC PINEAPPLE BASMATI RICE – EXOTIC & FLAVORFUL SIDE DISH
A fragrant and exotic basmati rice recipe infused with ginger, coriander, and juicy pineapple cubes. Perfect alongside shrimp, grilled chicken or turkey breast, or a white fish fillet.
🕒 Prep & Cook Time: 40 min
🍽️ Servings: 2-3
🥄 Ingredients
- 1 cup basmati rice (200 g)
- 1¼ cups water (300 ml)
- 200 g pineapple, cut into small cubes (about 1/4 of a large pineapple)
- 1 generous tbsp butter (approx. 30 g)
- 1 tsp coriander seeds
- 1 tsp freshly grated ginger
- 3 garlic cloves, crushed
- Fresh parsley and chives, chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
👩🍳 Instructions
- Choose a ripe, aromatic pineapple with a slight sweetness. (See guide here on selecting pineapple.)
- Rinse rice multiple times until rinse water runs clear (not milky). Soak in cold water for 30 minutes.
- Bring 300 ml salted water (½ tsp salt) to a boil. Drain rice well and add to boiling water.
- Return to boil, reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 5 minutes (increase to 7 minutes if rice was not soaked).
- Remove lid, place a clean towel over the pot, then replace lid. Turn off heat and let rice steam for 15 minutes without lifting the lid.
Alternatively, you can use cooked basmati rice from the previous day. - In a small pan, toast coriander seeds until fragrant, then crush in a mortar to powder.
- In a large pan, melt butter over low heat. Add grated ginger and crushed garlic, sauté for 1 minute until aromatic.
- Add coriander powder and sauté another minute.
- Add pineapple cubes and sauté 2-3 minutes until warmed through.
- Add cooked rice, season with salt and black pepper, and stir-fry for 3 minutes, mixing frequently.
- Stir in chopped parsley and chives just before serving.
💡 Tips
- Use ripe pineapple for the best balance of sweetness and acidity.
- Soaking rice ensures even cooking and fluffier texture.
- Toasting coriander seeds enhances their flavor.
- This dish pairs beautifully with seafood and grilled poultry.
🎉 Perfect For
- Exotic rice side dishes
- Summer or tropical-themed meals
- Accompaniments to grilled meats and seafood
📝 Final Thoughts
This pineapple basmati rice combines sweet, savory, and aromatic elements into a vibrant dish that elevates any meal. Easy to prepare and sure to impress your guests.