Pineapple Curry Recipe
This delightful and aromatic Pineapple Curry is a perfect blend of tropical sweetness and savory spices, offering a rich, exotic experience right in your own kitchen. Infused with fragrant coconut milk and a variety of spices such as cardamom, turmeric, and mustard seeds, this curry is sure to tantalize your taste buds with a medium level of heat. The pineapple’s natural sweetness contrasts beautifully with the warming spices, creating a comforting yet refreshing dish. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned pro, this simple recipe comes together in just under 40 minutes, making it ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or a special weekend treat.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Pineapple, peeled, cored, and diced | 1 whole |
| Coconut oil | 1 tbsp |
| Mustard seeds | 1 tsp |
| Cardamoms | 4 whole |
| Cassia bark | 2cm piece |
| Onion, diced | 1 medium |
| Garlic cloves, minced | 4 cloves |
| Fresh ginger, grated | 3cm piece |
| Red chili, sliced | 1 whole |
| Turmeric powder | 1 tsp |
| Lemon pepper (or black pepper), crushed | 1 tsp |
| Chili powder | ½ tsp |
| Salt | ½ tsp or to taste |
| Coconut milk | 400ml |
Instructions
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Prepare the Spices: Begin by heating the coconut oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Once the oil has melted, add the mustard seeds, cardamoms, and cassia bark. Stir them in the oil until the mustard seeds begin to pop, releasing their aromatic oils.
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Cook the Onion: Add the diced onion to the pan and sauté for a few minutes until the onion becomes translucent, softening and absorbing the flavors from the spices.
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Add Garlic and Ginger: Stir in the minced garlic and grated fresh ginger. Continue cooking for about 5 minutes, allowing the garlic and ginger to infuse their fragrances into the onion mixture.
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Incorporate the Spices: As the onions begin to brown slightly, add the sliced red chili, turmeric, lemon pepper (or black pepper), and chili powder. Stir well, ensuring the spices coat the onion, garlic, and ginger mixture evenly.
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Add Pineapple: Toss in the diced pineapple and mix well, ensuring each piece is coated with the flavorful masala-spiced mixture.
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Pour in Coconut Milk: Once the pineapple is well coated with the spices, pour in the coconut milk. Stir the mixture gently and bring it to a simmer over medium-high heat.
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Simmer the Curry: Lower the heat to a gentle simmer, cover the pan, and let the curry cook for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The goal is to allow the pineapple to soften to your preferred texture; I like mine tender, but you can simmer it longer if you prefer a more broken-down consistency.
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Final Touches: Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Add salt to taste, and if you like extra spice, a dash more chili powder or black pepper can be added.
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Serve: Once the curry has reached your desired level of softness, remove it from the heat and serve hot, accompanied by a bowl of steamed rice or flatbreads like naan.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~350 kcal |
| Protein | ~3g |
| Carbohydrates | ~38g |
| Fat | ~24g |
| Fiber | ~5g |
| Sugar | ~20g |
| Sodium | ~350mg |
Allergen Information
- Contains coconut.
- This recipe may also contain traces of mustard seeds and spices.
Dietary Preferences
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-Free
- Dairy-Free
- Nut-Free
Tips for the Perfect Pineapple Curry
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Spice Level: You can adjust the level of heat in this curry by increasing or reducing the amount of chili powder or fresh chili. If you prefer a milder version, consider omitting the chili powder or using less pepper.
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Coconut Milk: If you prefer a thicker curry, use full-fat coconut milk. For a lighter version, opt for low-fat coconut milk. Both versions offer a deliciously creamy texture that balances the spice perfectly.
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Serving Suggestions: Pair this Pineapple Curry with steamed jasmine rice or a side of naan bread. The curry is also great with a fresh salad or raita to cool down the heat from the spices.
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Pineapple Choice: Make sure to choose a ripe pineapple for this dish. A sweeter pineapple will balance the spices more effectively and create a better flavor profile.
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Storage: This curry keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a little water or coconut milk if it has thickened too much.
Conclusion
Pineapple Curry is an incredibly versatile and comforting dish, bursting with flavor and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re craving something spicy, sweet, or simply need a quick and easy meal, this dish hits all the right notes. With its tropical sweetness, vibrant spices, and creamy coconut milk base, it brings a unique and satisfying culinary experience to your table. Adjust the spice level to your taste, and enjoy the explosion of flavors that make this curry truly unforgettable!
