Stuffed pineapple

Pineapple Stuffed Rice - an exotic and healthy delight

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4

Imagine a vibrant combination of flavors and textures, where the sweet pineapple intertwines with fluffy rice and savory ingredients. This pineapple stuffed rice recipe is not only a foodie choice but also an excellent way to bring a touch of sunshine to your plate. It's perfect for gatherings with friends or family meals, and each bite is an explosion of tropical tastes.

A bit of history: Pineapple, once considered a symbol of hospitality, has been used throughout history in various culinary dishes, from desserts to main courses. In this recipe, the pineapple is not just an ingredient but also a natural vessel that offers a spectacular appearance and a unique flavor.

Ingredients:

- 2 pieces of pineapple
- 100 g rice (preferably long-grain rice)
- 200 g chicken ham (you can also use smoked ham for a stronger flavor)
- 1 red bell pepper
- 50 g almonds
- 1/2 teaspoon coriander (freshly ground for a more intense flavor)
- 20 g fresh ginger
- 1 clove garlic
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or sesame oil for an Asian flavor)
- Ground white pepper (to taste)
- Salt (to taste)
- 400 ml chicken broth (or water if you prefer a vegetarian option)

Passion in preparation:

1. Preparing the rice: Start by rinsing the rice under cold water to remove excess starch. This will help prevent the rice from sticking. After rinsing, place the rice in a pot with 400 ml of chicken broth. Bring to a medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the rice absorbs all the broth and becomes fluffy. This process takes about 15-20 minutes.

2. Preparing the pineapple: Cut the two pineapples in half and scoop out the flesh with a spoon or knife. Be careful not to damage the pineapple 'vessel'. Cut the flesh into small cubes, which will add a sweet and sour taste to the dish.

3. Sauté the ingredients: In a large skillet, heat the two tablespoons of oil over medium heat. Add the crushed garlic clove and freshly grated ginger. These aromas will create a delicious base for the dish. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, but do not let them burn.

4. Add the vegetables and proteins: Cut the red bell pepper into cubes and add it to the skillet, along with the sliced ham and blanched almond slices. Sauté everything for 5 minutes, stirring constantly, until the bell pepper becomes slightly soft.

5. The final combination: Once the rice is cooked, add it to the skillet along with the pineapple cubes. Season with coriander, white pepper, and salt to taste. Mix well to combine all ingredients and let the dish cool slightly.

6. Fill the pineapples: Using a spoon, fill the pineapple halves with the rice and vegetable mixture. Make sure to fill them well so that each bite is full of flavor.

7. Serving: Serve these stuffed pineapple halves cold, as an elegant appetizer or a main dish. You can add some fresh coriander leaves on top for a more colorful appearance.

Suggestions and variations:

- If you want to add a spicy note, you can include finely chopped chili pepper in the skillet.
- For a vegetarian option, replace the ham with tofu or additional vegetables.
- You can add various spices like curry or turmeric for an exotic flavor.

Nutritional benefits: This recipe is rich in vitamins and minerals. Pineapple is an excellent source of vitamin C, and rice provides complex carbohydrates that will give you energy throughout the day. Almonds, besides adding a crunchy texture, are rich in healthy fats and proteins.

Frequently asked questions:

- What can I use instead of pineapple? If you can't find fresh pineapple, you can use canned pineapple in natural juice. Make sure to drain it well before use.
- Can I prepare the recipe a day in advance? Yes, you can prepare the filling a day in advance and keep it in the fridge. When you're ready to serve, fill the pineapples and chill them before serving.
- What drinks pair well with this dish? An excellent drink to accompany this dish would be a pineapple cocktail or a cold mint tea.

This pineapple stuffed rice recipe is not only delicious but also a true visual delight. Try it and let the tropical flavors carry you away, and each bite will bring smiles to your face! Enjoy your meal!