Pineapple Rice
Bright and fragrant fluffy rice studded with juicy pineapple chunks and tossed in a sweet-savory soy glaze. Ready in just 20 minutes, this vibrant side dish brings a taste of the tropics to your table and pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish.
For 4 servings
- steam · ~20 min
Cook the jasmine rice.
1.Bring 3 cups of water and a pinch of salt to a boil in a medium pot.2.Add the rinsed jasmine rice, stir once, then reduce heat to low.3.Cover and simmer for 15 minutes until water is absorbed and rice is tender.4.Remove from heat and let stand, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork.TIPRinse the rice until the water runs clear to remove excess starch for fluffy, separate grains. - saute · ~4 min
Sauté the aromatics and bell pepper.
1.Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.2.Add the diced onion and cook until starting to soften, about 2 minutes.3.Add the garlic and diced bell pepper, stir-frying for another 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant. - mix · ~2 min
Toss in the pineapple and seasonings.
1.Add the fresh pineapple chunks to the skillet.2.Stir in the soy sauce and honey, tossing everything to combine.3.Cook for 1 to 2 minutes, just until the pineapple is warmed through and glazed.TIPDon't overcook the pineapple — you want it warmed but still juicy and bright. - mix · ~2 min
Fold in the cooked rice.
1.Add the cooked and fluffed jasmine rice to the skillet.2.Gently fold everything together until the rice is evenly coated with the glaze.3.Drizzle with sesame oil and toss lightly once more. - garnish
Garnish with scallions and serve warm.
Transfer the Pineapple Rice to a serving bowl and sprinkle generously with sliced scallions. Serve immediately.
TIPFor an extra pop of color and crunch, top with a small handful of toasted cashews.
What to keep in mind.
7 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Rinse jasmine rice thoroughly until water runs clear to prevent gummy rice.
- 2Use fully ripe but firm pineapple for the best balance of sweetness and texture.
- 3Fluff the cooked rice with a fork before folding it into the skillet to avoid clumps.
- 4Toast the sesame oil briefly in the hot pan before drizzling for deeper flavor.
- 5Don't skip the 5-minute rest after cooking rice; it allows steam to finish the grains.
- 6For a non-stick wok, ensure oil is hot before adding aromatics to prevent sticking.
- 7Leftover pineapple rice keeps well in the fridge for 2 days; reheat in a skillet with a splash of water.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spicy
Add 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes or a minced Thai chili when sautéing garlic for a subtle heat that cuts through the sweetness.
veganVegan
Replace honey with maple syrup or agave nectar to keep the glaze plant-based without compromising the sweet-savory balance.
protein packedProtein-packed
Stir in 1 cup of cooked, shredded chicken or cubed tofu after folding in the rice to turn this side into a complete one-bowl meal.
crunchyCrunchy
Fold in 1/4 cup toasted cashews or peanuts along with the scallions for added crunch and nutty flavor.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Vitamin C
Fresh pineapple provides a generous dose of vitamin C, which supports immune function and skin health.
Contains Digestive Enzymes
Pineapple naturally contains bromelain, an enzyme that may aid protein digestion and reduce inflammation.
Low in Saturated Fat
This dish uses a small amount of vegetable and sesame oil, keeping saturated fat content minimal.
Good Source of Fiber
The pineapple and bell pepper contribute dietary fiber, promoting healthy digestion and satiety.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, but choose canned pineapple in juice (not syrup) and drain well. Fresh pineapple provides brighter flavor and better texture.



