Are you ready to escape to a tropical paradise, even if only for a meal? Look no further! In this article, we’ll be diving into 20 flavorful and delicious tropical rice recipes that will transport your taste buds to a sun-kissed beach or lush jungle. From classic pairings like coconut and pineapple to bold combinations featuring spicy jerk chicken and chorizo, there’s something for every palate and preference.
Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty casserole, a quick and easy skillet meal, or a refreshing salad, these tropical rice recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings and provide inspiration for your next dinner party or family gathering.
Coconut Pineapple Tropical Rice
This flavorful side dish combines the sweetness of pineapple with the creaminess of coconut milk and the warmth of tropical spices, creating a perfect accompaniment to your favorite Caribbean-inspired dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup pineapple juice
– 2 tablespoons coconut milk
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh pineapple chunks and toasted coconut flakes for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer and drain well.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice, water, unsweetened shredded coconut, pineapple juice, coconut milk, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
4. Fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with fresh pineapple chunks and toasted coconut flakes, if desired.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Mango Lime Cilantro Tropical Rice
This vibrant rice dish combines the sweetness of mango with the brightness of lime and the freshness of cilantro, perfect for a summer gathering or a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer and drain well.
2. In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the rice and cook, stirring constantly, for 2-3 minutes or until lightly toasted.
3. Add the water, mango, lime juice, and cilantro to the saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
4. Fluff the rice with a fork and season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Spicy Jerk Chicken Tropical Rice
Elevate your mealtime with this bold and flavorful dish that combines the Caribbean’s famous jerk seasoning with the sweetness of tropical fruit. This Spicy Jerk Chicken Tropical Rice is a perfect blend of spicy, sweet, and savory.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp jerk seasoning
– 1 tsp brown sugar
– 1/4 cup pineapple juice
– 1/4 cup coconut milk
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/2 cup diced mango
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together jerk seasoning, brown sugar, and pineapple juice.
3. Place chicken breasts in a shallow dish and brush with the jerk mixture.
4. Cook chicken in the oven for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Cook rice according to package instructions using coconut milk instead of water.
6. Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Add diced mango and cook until caramelized, about 3-4 minutes.
7. Combine cooked chicken, tropical rice, and caramelized mango. Garnish with chopped cilantro.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Tropical Shrimp and Rice Skillet
Get ready for a flavorful and nutritious meal with this tropical twist on the classic shrimp and rice skillet! This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 cup diced pineapple
– 1 cup diced mango
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 lime, cut into wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through. Remove from the skillet.
3. In the same skillet, add the pineapple, mango, cilantro, soy sauce, and honey. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the fruit is tender.
4. Add the cooked rice to the skillet and stir-fry for about 1 minute, breaking up any clumps.
5. Return the shrimp to the skillet and stir to combine with the rice mixture.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with lime wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pineapple Teriyaki Tropical Rice Bowl
A sweet and savory twist on traditional teriyaki rice bowls, this recipe combines juicy pineapple, tangy teriyaki sauce, and fluffy tropical rice for a flavor-packed meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon coconut oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped scallions and toasted coconut flakes for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. Heat coconut oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add pineapple chunks and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until slightly caramelized.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, and honey.
5. Combine cooked rice with the pineapple mixture and teriyaki sauce mixture in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions and toasted coconut flakes, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Coconut Curry Tropical Rice Pilaf
Add a flavorful twist to your rice dishes with this aromatic pilaf, featuring the warm spices of coconut curry and the sweetness of tropical fruit. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a side dish for special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon coconut oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup mixed tropical fruit (such as pineapple, mango, kiwi)
– 2 tablespoons coconut milk
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add garlic, cumin, curry powder, and turmeric; cook for 1 minute.
3. Add rice and stir to coat with spices. Cook for 2 minutes.
4. Add water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until liquid is absorbed.
5. Fluff pilaf with a fork. Stir in coconut milk and mixed tropical fruit. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tropical Rice and Black Bean Salad
Escape to a tropical paradise with this flavorful salad that combines the warmth of rice and black beans with the zest of tropical fruits. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup diced fresh pineapple
– 1/2 cup diced fresh mango
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, black beans, pineapple, mango, and cilantro.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice and olive oil.
3. Pour the dressing over the rice mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Sweet Plantain and Coconut Tropical Rice
Sweet Plantain and Coconut Tropical Rice: A flavorful and nutritious side dish that combines the natural sweetness of plantains with the creamy richness of coconut milk, perfect for pairing with your favorite Caribbean-inspired main courses.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe plantains, sliced
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the sliced plantains and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until they start to caramelize.
4. Add the rice, coconut milk, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover. Simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Grilled Pineapple and Shrimp Tropical Rice
Elevate your dinner game with this sweet and savory dish that combines the flavors of grilled pineapple, succulent shrimp, and aromatic tropical rice. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a summer barbecue.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 ripe pineapple, sliced into 1-inch wedges
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a separate pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add diced onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add garlic and shrimp; cook for 2-3 minutes or until pink and cooked through.
4. Grill pineapple slices for 2-3 minutes per side, or until caramelized.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce and honey.
6. Combine cooked rice, shrimp mixture, and grilled pineapple in a large serving dish. Drizzle with the soy-honey glaze and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tropical Rice with Cashews and Raisins
This flavorful rice dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a side dish for your next barbecue. The combination of toasted cashews, sweet raisins, and aromatic spices will transport your taste buds to the tropical islands.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup chopped cashews
– 1/4 cup golden raisins
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
Instructions:
1. Cook rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a large skillet, heat the melted butter over medium-high heat.
3. Add cashews and cook for 2-3 minutes or until lightly toasted.
4. Stir in raisins, cumin, salt, and paprika. Cook for an additional minute.
5. Once rice is cooked, fluff with a fork and stir in the cashew and raisin mixture.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Tropical Rice with Chorizo
This recipe combines the bold flavors of chorizo sausage with the sweetness of tropical fruit and spices, all wrapped up in a flavorful rice dish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a summer gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/2 cup chorizo sausage, sliced
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 cup mixed tropical fruit (such as pineapple, mango, and kiwi)
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Add chorizo and cook until browned, about 3 minutes.
2. Add onion and bell pepper; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add rice, water, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until liquid is absorbed.
4. Stir in tropical fruit. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Coconut Milk and Ginger Tropical Rice
This recipe combines the creamy richness of coconut milk with the warm spices of ginger and a hint of tropical flavor, creating a unique and delicious side dish or main course. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 2 inches fresh ginger, peeled and grated
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer until water runs clear.
2. Heat the oil in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Add the grated ginger and cook, stirring occasionally, for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add the rice to the saucepan and stir to coat with the ginger mixture.
4. Add the water and coconut milk. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
5. Fluff the rice with a fork and season with salt to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Tropical Rice Stuffed Bell Peppers
A vibrant and flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the sweetness of bell peppers with the tropical flavors of coconut rice and spices.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers, removing seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, mix cooked rice with coconut milk, honey, ginger, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the rice mixture, filling to the top.
5. Place peppers in a baking dish, cover with aluminum foil, and bake for 30 minutes.
6. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until peppers are tender.
7. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Pineapple and Ham Tropical Rice Casserole
This tropical twist on a classic casserole combines the sweetness of pineapple with the savory flavor of ham, all wrapped up in a flavorful rice dish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a potluck gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 cup diced ham (such as Canadian bacon or prosciutto)
– 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, diced ham, pineapple chunks, peas and carrots, and cilantro.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with soy sauce; toss until well combined.
4. Transfer mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly toasted on top.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tropical Rice with Mango Salsa
Bring the flavors of the Caribbean to your table with this vibrant rice dish, paired with a sweet and tangy mango salsa.
Ingredients:
For the Tropical Rice:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the Mango Salsa:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions using the water, olive oil, onion, bell pepper, cumin, salt, and pepper.
2. In a separate bowl, combine the mango, red onion, jalapeño, and lime juice.
3. Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork and stir in the Mango Salsa.
4. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Coconut Lime Shrimp Tropical Rice
Escape to a tropical paradise with this flavorful and refreshing dish, featuring succulent shrimp, creamy coconut milk, and zesty lime. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together coconut milk, lime juice, olive oil, onion, garlic, and ginger.
3. Add the shrimp to the marinade and mix well; refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Cook the rice according to package instructions.
5. Remove the shrimp from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
6. Place the shrimp on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until pink and cooked through.
7. Serve the shrimp over tropical rice, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tropical Rice and Chicken Stir-Fry
Experience the flavors of the tropics with this quick and easy stir-fry recipe that combines juicy chicken, sweet pineapple, and savory coconut milk with fluffy white rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed tropical fruit (pineapple, mango, kiwi)
– 1/4 cup coconut milk
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from skillet.
3. Add onion and garlic to the skillet; cook until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add tropical fruit and coconut milk to the skillet; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes or until fruit is tender.
5. Return chicken to the skillet; stir in soy sauce and season with salt and pepper.
6. Serve hot over cooked rice, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pineapple Coconut Tropical Rice Pudding
Escape to the islands with this creamy, sweet, and tangy rice pudding infused with the flavors of pineapple, coconut, and tropical spices. Perfect as a dessert or snack, this comforting treat is sure to transport you to a sunny paradise.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup pineapple juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup diced fresh pineapple
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine rice, coconut milk, sugar, pineapple juice, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until mixture comes to a boil.
2. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until liquid is absorbed and pudding has thickened.
3. Remove from heat; stir in melted butter, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
4. Fold in diced pineapple. Serve warm or chilled.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Tropical Rice with Grilled Vegetables
Experience the tropical flavors of the Caribbean with this simple and delicious recipe that combines aromatic rice with grilled vegetables, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend barbecue.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, sliced
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
– 1 zucchini, sliced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine rice and water. Bring to boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until water is absorbed.
3. While rice cooks, brush vegetables with olive oil and season with cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Grill vegetables for 5-7 minutes per side or until tender.
5. Fluff cooked rice with a fork and stir in grilled vegetables.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Mango and Coconut Tropical Rice
Elevate your rice game with this vibrant and flavorful tropical fusion! This spicy mango and coconut tropical rice is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a colorful side dish for your next potluck.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen mango, thawed
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse rice and combine with water in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until water is absorbed.
2. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in coconut, mango, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the mixture is fragrant.
4. Fluff cooked rice with a fork and mix in the skillet mixture. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to transport your taste buds to a tropical paradise with these 20 flavorful rice recipes! From classic coconut pineapple rice to spicy jerk chicken and shrimp, there’s something for everyone. Enjoy a range of international inspirations, from Caribbean-inspired teriyaki bowls to Indian-style curry pilafs. These mouth-watering dishes are perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a special occasion. Whether you’re in the mood for sweet plantain and coconut or grilled pineapple and shrimp, these recipes will transport your taste buds to a tropical getaway.
