These Fried Pineapple Rings are a delightful treat with their crispy exterior and juicy, caramelized pineapple interior. The light, airy batter creates a golden crunch, while the warm rings offer a tropical burst of sweetness. Paired with the Creamy Coconut Dipping Sauce, which is rich, silky, and subtly sweet, this dish transforms simple pineapple into an exotic indulgence.
Ingredients:
For the Fried Pineapple Rings:
- 1 fresh pineapple, peeled, cored, and sliced into rings
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup cornstarch
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup cold sparkling water (or regular water)
- Vegetable oil for frying
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
For the Creamy Coconut Dipping Sauce:
- 1 cup canned coconut milk
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pineapple:
- Peel, core, and slice the pineapple into rings about 1/2 inch thick. Pat the rings dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
2. Make the Batter:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the cold sparkling water, whisking until you have a smooth batter. It should be thick enough to coat the pineapple rings but still pourable.
3. Heat the Oil:
- In a deep skillet or large saucepan, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). You can test if the oil is hot enough by dropping a small amount of batter into it; it should sizzle and rise to the surface.
4. Fry the Pineapple Rings:
- Dip each pineapple ring into the batter, allowing any excess to drip off.
- Carefully place the battered pineapple rings into the hot oil, a few at a time, to avoid overcrowding.
- Fry until golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fried pineapple rings to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Optionally, dust with powdered sugar while still warm.
5. Make the Creamy Coconut Dipping Sauce:
- In a small saucepan, whisk together the coconut milk, sugar, cornstarch, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and comes to a gentle boil.
- Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.
6. Serve:
- Arrange the fried pineapple rings on a serving platter.
- Serve warm with the creamy coconut dipping sauce on the side.
