Island Rice Pilaf

Transport your taste buds to the tropics with this vibrant Island Rice Pilaf, a flavorful fusion of sweet and savory ingredients that’s as satisfying as it is beautiful. Made with fluffy long-grain rice simmered in rich coconut milk and broth, this dish is infused with aromatic garlic, ginger, and a hint of warm turmeric. Bursting with juicy pineapple chunks, tender red bell pepper, and fresh green onions, each bite delivers a delightful balance of textures and flavors. A garnish of toasted coconut flakes and fresh cilantro adds the perfect finishing touch, making this pilaf a show-stopping side dish or a standout vegetarian entrée. With only 10 minutes of prep time and a tropical twist, this easy rice pilaf is an irresistible go-to for weeknight dinners or festive gatherings. Perfect for those seeking island-inspired recipes, coconut rice dishes, or fruit-infused sides!

Nutriscore Rating: 66/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:25 mins

Total Time:35 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 2 cups long-grain white rice
• 1 cup unsweetened coconut milk
• 1.5 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 cup pineapple chunks
• 1 medium red bell pepper, diced
• 3 stalks green onions, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
• 2 tablespoons coconut oil
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 0.25 cup toasted coconut flakes (optional)
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain well and set aside.

Step 2

In a large saucepan, heat the coconut oil over medium heat. Add the diced red bell pepper and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.

Step 3

Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the saucepan. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant.

Step 4

Stir in the turmeric, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another 30 seconds to toast the spices.

Step 5

Add the rinsed rice to the saucepan and stir to coat the grains in the spice mixture.

Step 6

Pour in the coconut milk and chicken or vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.

Step 7

Reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid, and let the rice simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.

Step 8

Remove the saucepan from the heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes to allow the rice to steam.

Step 9

Gently fluff the rice with a fork and stir in the pineapple chunks and sliced green onions.

Step 10

Transfer the pilaf to a serving bowl. Garnish with toasted coconut flakes and chopped cilantro, if desired. Serve warm.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1406.2 grams (1406.2g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1194

Total Fat 52.50g	67%
Saturated Fat 43.70g	219%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.50g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 3725mg	162%
Total Carbohydrate 161.70g	59%
Dietary Fiber 12.70g	45%
Total Sugars 26.20g
Protein 18.80g	38%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 596mg	46%
Iron 10mg	55%
Potassium 957mg	20%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 39.6%

Protein: 6.3%

Carbs: 54.1%