Light, fluffy, and bursting with bold flavors, this Asian Rice Pilaf is anything but ordinary. But let’s be real—spending extra time in the kitchen on a busy night isn’t always an option. That’s why this easy one-pot dish is a lifesaver! With fragrant jasmine rice, creamy coconut milk, and a hint of lime, you’ll have a deliciously satisfying side ready with minimal effort.
Whether you are looking for a vegetarian main course or an easy side dish to complement your Asian-inspired meal, you will love this Asian (inspired) Rice Pilaf.
It's simple, versatile, and brings tantalizing flavors.
Follow along, and I'll show you just how easy it is to make.
Ingredients
- Cooked Rice: Opt for jasmine or basmati rice. Check out my slow cooker rice, Ninja Foodi rice, or Instant pot jasmine rice recipes for easy cooking methods.
- Coconut Oil: This is our secret to imparting that silky, tropical undertone which makes this dish truly unique. If you're out, a mild olive oil works in a pinch!
- Chopped Pineapple: Feel free to swap in mango for a different twist.
- Grated Carrots: They not only add a splash of color but also a subtle sweetness that complements the spiciness. Shredded beetroot can be a fun, colorful substitute.
- Baby Sweet Peas: If unavailable, chopped green beans fit right in without missing a beat.
- Lime Juice: Its vibrant zing cuts through the richness, balancing the dish beautifully.
- Fish Sauce: A bit of soy sauce mixed with a tiny pinch of anchovy paste can mimic its complex profile.
- Maple Syrup: You could substitute honey if you prefer.
- Fresh Minced Ginger: It’s all about that warm, spicy kick that ginger brings. No fresh ginger? Ground ginger can pinch-hit, just use it sparingly.
- Crushed Red Pepper: A sprinkle of this brings a gentle heat that makes the dish lively. You could use ¼ teaspoon of cayenne pepper if you prefer.
- Chopped Cilantro: This herb is the finishing touch, adding a fresh, citrusy punch. For those cilantro-adverse, a little fresh Thai basil or mint could offer a pleasant surprise.
- Sliced Scallions: Their mild oniony crunch is essential for that burst of freshness.
- Chopped Cashews: Walnuts or pecans could substitute.
- Toasted Shredded Unsweetened Coconut: For a nuttier flair, toasted sesame seeds make a great alternative.
- Optional: Hot Sauce: For those who like to walk on the wild side, a dash of your favorite hot sauce can turn the heat up a notch. Totally optional but highly recommended.
Tips and Tricks
- Get Creative with Add-Ins: Don't have carrots or peas? No problem! Swap in whatever veggies you have on hand. Bell peppers, corn, and even broccoli florets all work.
- Adjust the Heat: Whether your family loves spice or prefers things on the milder side, adjust the amount of crushed red pepper to suit your tastes. Remember, it's much easier to add heat than it is to take it away!
- Making It Ahead?: If you're preparing this pilaf for a gathering, mix everything but the fresh herbs and nuts. Just before serving, reheat gently, then stir in the cilantro, scallions, and sprinkle with cashews and coconut. It’ll taste as if you made it moments ago.
You May Also Like
- Thai Chicken Salad: Bursting with fresh herbs, juicy chicken, and a tangy dressing, it's like a party in a bowl!
- Thai Quinoa Salad: Every bite packed with colorful veggies and a spicy dressing made us fall in love with healthy eating all over again.
- Asian Chicken Salad: It's the perfect example of how simple ingredients can create extraordinary experiences.
- Asian Quinoa Salad: A harmonious blend of fluffy quinoa, crunchy veggies, and a zesty dressing.
Asian Rice Pilaf
This Thai Rice Pilaf is packed with flavor and comes together in about 15 minutes. The perfect weekday side dish! It can easily be made vegan.
Servings: 8
Calories: 163kcal
Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups cooked white rice
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
- 1 cup chopped pineapple
- 2 carrots grated
- ½ cup baby sweet peas fresh or frozen
- 3 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 teaspoon fish sauce
- 2 teaspoons maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon fresh minced ginger
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper
- ½ cup chopped cilantro
- 3 scallions sliced
- 2 tablespoons chopped cashews
- ½ cup shredded unsweetened coconut toasted
- Optional: Hot sauce
Instructions
- Heat coconut oil in a large skillet to medium high. Add pineapple, carrots and sweet peas and cook for 2 minutes.
- Add rice, lime juice, fish sauce, maple syrup and ginger. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring often. Remove from heat and stir in cilantro and scallions.
- Top with cashews and coconut and serve warm. Drizzle with hot sauce if desired.
Nutrition
Calories: 163kcal | Carbohydrates: 24g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 7g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 77mg | Potassium: 191mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 5g | Vitamin A: 2781IU | Vitamin C: 17mg | Calcium: 25mg | Iron: 1mg
If You Like Thai Rice Pilaf You May Also Like:
- Quinoa Taco Meat
- Quinoa Smoothie
- Spanish Cauliflower Rice
CourtneyLynne Storms says
Omg can even say yum?!?! THIS recipe looks absolutely delicious. I must give it a try!
Theresa says
Yum, I would love to have this for lunch! You've got such tasty meal ideas. Thanks for the food inspiration!
Louise Bishop says
Rice usually feels boring half the time however, this looks like it would be a great addition to any meal or by itself even!
Ellie Augustin says
I love to be able to mix up dinner rice recipes and loving this recipe. I shared it w/my Hubby thanks for sharing!
Rachel Langer says
Our favorite rice is Jasmine. My husband makes a mean Mexican rice and I am pretty proud of my cilantro lime rice. I will have to give this recipe a try!
Brittany Muddamalle says
I cannot wait to try this out! I love thai food! My husband and I end up going to a thai food place every week on date night. I'd love to make it at home!
Amanda Rosson says
Oh what a yummy and beautiful looking dish! I love how colorful it is! Thanks for the giveaway too!
Kristin says
Yummmm this sounds delicious! One bowl meals are one of my favorite things to make, less clean up and hopefully great taste. This sounds great, I cannot wait to try it. Pinned!
Kiana says
This looks so tasty! I am all here for quick and easy dishes that also taste amazing.
Maria - Tough Cookie Mommy says
I have the feeling that there aren't enough hours in the day every single day. This dish looks really tasty and perfect for a family dinner.
Karina Pacheco says
Love when I find yummy foods that can be cooked easy, perfect for those super busy days. This looks delicious and so healthy, love it. Need to try and find some nearby 🙂
Krystal says
Hello delicious! I don't make a lot of Thai dishes, but I know that my husband would totally appreciate it. Looks totally good and something I can replicate!