Description
A vibrant, flavorful dish combining fragrant coconut-infused basmati rice with sweet and tangy pineapple chicken. Loaded with colorful bell peppers and a hint of spice, this tropical meal is perfect for a weeknight dinner that transports you to island vibes.
Ingredients
Coconut Rice
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1 onion, finely chopped
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1 tablespoon coconut butter
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10 g desiccated coconut
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200 g basmati rice
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1 can (400 ml) coconut milk
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200 ml water
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Salt, to taste
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Juice and zest of half a lime
Pineapple Chicken
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425 g canned pineapple chunks in juice
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50 ml water
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25 ml soy sauce
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1 tablespoon brown sugar
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1 garlic clove, minced
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1 inch fresh ginger, grated
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Chili flakes, to taste
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2 chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
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Salt, pepper, and paprika, to taste
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1 tablespoon rum
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 red bell pepper, sliced
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1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
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1 green bell pepper, sliced
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1 celery stick, sliced
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1 tablespoon cornstarch
Instructions
For the Coconut Rice:
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Heat coconut butter in a pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
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Stir in the desiccated coconut and toast lightly for 1-2 minutes.
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Add the basmati rice and stir to coat the grains.
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Pour in the coconut milk and water. Add salt to taste.
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Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until the rice is tender and liquid absorbed.
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Remove from heat and stir in lime juice and zest. Keep covered until ready to serve.
For the Pineapple Chicken:
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In a bowl, combine pineapple chunks with juice, water, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, chili flakes, and rum. Mix well.
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Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and paprika.
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Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until lightly browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
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In the same pan, sauté the sliced bell peppers and celery until tender-crisp.
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Pour the pineapple sauce into the pan and bring to a simmer.
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Mix cornstarch with a little cold water to make a slurry. Add slurry to the sauce and stir until thickened.
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Return chicken to the pan and toss to coat evenly in the sauce. Heat through.
Notes
Adjust chili flakes to control spice level.
For extra depth, try adding a splash of soy sauce or lime juice to the rice.
This dish pairs well with steamed greens or a fresh salad.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Tropical / Fusion