Prep time: 15 mins | Fry time: 10 mins | Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
Fried Pineapple Rings
1 fresh pineapple, peeled, cored, and sliced into 1/2-inch rings (or canned rings, patted dry)
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp salt
1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
1 large egg, beaten
3/4 cup coconut milk (or buttermilk)
Vegetable or canola oil (for frying)
Creamy Coconut Dipping Sauce
1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut cream
1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
2 tbsp powdered sugar
1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Chopped fresh chives or toasted coconut (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Prep Breading Stations: Set up three shallow bowls. In the first, whisk flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. In the second, whisk the egg and coconut milk. In the third, combine the shredded coconut and panko breadcrumbs.
2. Dredge Pineapple: Pat pineapple slices thoroughly dry with paper towels. Dip each ring into the flour mixture, then the liquid mixture, and finally press firmly into the coconut-panko coating to cover completely.
3. Fry Rings: Heat 1/2 inch of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat (350°F / 175°C). Fry rings in batches for 2–3 minutes per side until deeply golden brown and crispy. Drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
4. Make Dipping Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together heavy cream, sour cream, powdered sugar, honey, and vanilla extract until smooth and slightly thickened.
5. Serve: Garnish sauce with fresh chives or toasted coconut. Serve the hot fried pineapple rings immediately with the cold dipping sauce.