Fried Piña Colada Rings (Print Version)

Rum-infused pineapple rings fried in coconut coating, served with a creamy rum-cheese dipping sauce for a tropical treat.

# Ingredients:

→ Main Ingredients

01 - 8 pineapple rings
02 - 1 cup dark rum
03 - 1 cup coconut rum
04 - 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
05 - 10 oz sweetened coconut flakes
06 - 2 large eggs
07 - ½ cup coconut milk
08 - Vegetable oil for frying

→ Dipping Sauce

09 - 4 oz cream cheese, softened
10 - ½ cup powdered sugar

# Steps:

01 - Place pineapple rings in a medium bowl. Cover with dark rum and coconut rum. Let them soak for at least 1 hour, then drain and reserve the rum. Pat the pineapple slices dry.
02 - Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with coconut flakes, and a third with a mixture of whisked eggs and coconut milk.
03 - Working with one pineapple ring at a time, dredge in flour. Dip into the egg mixture, followed by coconut flakes, pressing gently to help the coating adhere.
04 - Pour about 2.5 cm (1 inch) of vegetable oil into a heavy-bottomed pot. Heat over medium-high heat until the temperature reaches approximately 175°C (350°F).
05 - In batches, fry the coated pineapple rings for about 1 minute per side or until golden brown. Remove using a slotted spoon and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
06 - In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. Stir in 2 tablespoons of the reserved rum, and adjust with additional rum for a thinner consistency if desired.
07 - Serve the warm fried pineapple rings with the rum-cream cheese dipping sauce.

# Notes:

01 - For a non-alcoholic version, soak the pineapple rings in coconut milk or pineapple juice.
02 - Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying (around 175°C or 350°F) for a crisp coating.
03 - Best served warm and fresh after frying.
04 - Using fresh pineapple rings provides better texture and flavor compared to canned ones.