If you’re craving a vibrant dish that perfectly balances sweet, savory, and a touch of spice, this Pineapple Fried Rice Recipe is exactly what you need. Each bite bursts with juicy pineapple chunks, tender jasmine rice, and a medley of colorful vegetables, all harmonized with aromatic curry powder and soy sauce. Whether you’re hosting friends or want a quick weeknight dinner that feels special, this tropical-inspired stir-fry brings sunshine and satisfaction to your plate faster than you can say “yum.”
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Pineapple Fried Rice Recipe comes together with ingredients that are simple but powerful in the flavor department. Each component plays a role not just in taste but also in texture and visual appeal, making the dish as beautiful as it is delicious.
- Vegetable oil: Provides the perfect base for stir-frying and helps create that irresistible slight crispiness.
- Eggs: Lightly beaten and scrambled, they add richness and a lovely fluffy texture.
- Small onion: Finely chopped to bring a subtle sweetness and soften as it cooks.
- Garlic cloves: Minced to infuse the dish with warm, aromatic depth.
- Diced pineapple: Fresh or canned and drained, this is the star ingredient that adds juicy sweetness and tropical flair.
- Diced carrots: Add a gentle crunch and vibrant orange color.
- Frozen peas: Small bursts of freshness and bright green that complement the other veggies.
- Cold cooked jasmine rice: Day-old rice works best to avoid sogginess and maintain fluffy grains.
- Soy sauce: Adds savory umami seasoning that ties the whole dish together.
- Fish sauce (optional): Introduces an authentic depth of flavor and a touch of saltiness.
- Curry powder: The secret spice that brings warmth and a gentle exotic twist.
- Black pepper: For a slight hint of heat and complexity.
- Chopped green onions: Stirred in at the end to lend a fresh, crisp bite.
- Roasted cashews (optional): Provide delightful crunch and nuttiness that elevates the whole dish.
- Lime wedges and cilantro: Perfect garnishes to add brightness and herbal freshness right before serving.
How to Make Pineapple Fried Rice Recipe
Step 1: Scramble the Eggs
Start by heating half of your vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Pour in the lightly beaten eggs and scramble them gently until fully cooked but still soft. This step adds a fluffy protein base and rich flavor—once cooked, transfer the eggs to a plate to keep warm, then wipe out the pan if needed.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics and Veggies
Add the remaining oil to the same pan and toss in the finely chopped onion. Let it soften for 2 to 3 minutes until it’s translucent and lovely on its own. Then stir in the minced garlic along with the diced carrots and pineapple. Cook for an additional 3 to 4 minutes, allowing the pineapple to caramelize slightly, which enhances its natural sweetness and gives the dish its signature tropical note.
Step 3: Incorporate Peas and Rice
Next, stir in the frozen peas followed by the cold jasmine rice. Breaking up any clumps is key here to ensuring every grain gets an equal chance to soak in the delicious flavors. The rice absorbs the juices and spices, making it wonderfully fluffy and flavorful all at once.
Step 4: Season and Combine
Now it’s time to bring everything together. Pour in the soy sauce and optional fish sauce for that rich umami punch. Sprinkle in the curry powder and black pepper to infuse your Pineapple Fried Rice Recipe with its warm and subtly spiced character. Toss everything gently but thoroughly to evenly coat the rice and veggies with those amazing seasonings. Cook for another 3 to 5 minutes to let the mixture heat through evenly.
Step 5: Finish with Eggs, Green Onions, and Cashews
Return the scrambled eggs to the pan and stir in the chopped green onions for freshness. If you’re using roasted cashews, stir those in now as well—they add a delightful crunch that contrasts wonderfully with the soft rice and juicy pineapple. Give everything a final toss, then remove from heat and get ready to serve.
How to Serve Pineapple Fried Rice Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing the pineapple fried rice is where presentation meets extra flavor. Fresh cilantro leaves scattered on top brighten the dish with herbal notes, while lime wedges on the side add a zesty touch that cuts through the richness beautifully. Simply squeeze a bit of lime over your plate just before eating for that perfect finishing kick.
Side Dishes
This dish can shine as a main course but also pairs wonderfully with light sides like a crisp Asian cucumber salad or a simple steamed vegetable medley. For celebrations or heartier meals, grilled shrimp, satay chicken skewers, or a refreshing papaya salad make excellent companions that complement the tropical flavors excellently.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress your guests? Serve your Pineapple Fried Rice Recipe inside a hollowed-out pineapple shell. It’s the ultimate showstopper that brings an exotic vibe straight to your table. Plus, it’s fun and makes for amazing photos! Another idea is to mold the rice into a dome shape using a small bowl before plating, then garnish artfully on top.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers (which sometimes is hard to believe), transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The pineapple fried rice tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld!
Freezing
You can freeze portions of this dish for up to one month. Just allow the rice to cool completely before freezing in a sealed container or freezer bag. When you want a quick meal, defrost overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, use a skillet over medium heat with a little oil to prevent sticking. Stir frequently until heated through to preserve the texture and freshness of the pineapple and vegetables. Avoid microwaving if possible to keep the best flavor and consistency.
FAQs
Can I use other types of rice for this Pineapple Fried Rice Recipe?
While jasmine rice is ideal for its fragrance and texture, you can use other long-grain rice varieties. Just make sure the rice is cooked and chilled beforehand to avoid a mushy final dish.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Absolutely! Simply omit the fish sauce or replace it with soy sauce or tamari, and skip adding any meat or seafood. This recipe’s base is already packed with veggies, pineapple, and eggs, making it a satisfying vegetarian option.
How spicy is this Pineapple Fried Rice Recipe?
It’s generally mild, thanks to the curry powder’s gentle warmth. If you love heat, feel free to add some chopped fresh chili or a dash of chili flakes while cooking to amp up the spice level.
Can I prepare this dish gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free soy sauce (like tamari) and make sure any additional sauces you add are certified gluten-free to keep it safe for gluten-sensitive diners.
What protein options work well added to this dish?
Cooked shrimp, diced chicken, or cubed tofu are excellent proteins that complement the Pineapple Fried Rice Recipe. Just cook them separately or beforehand and stir them in during the last step.
Final Thoughts
This Pineapple Fried Rice Recipe is one of those joyful dishes that brings a little party to your plate every time you make it. With its fantastic balance of sweet, savory, and spice, plus its easy-to-follow preparation, it’s sure to become a beloved favorite in your kitchen. Give it a try and watch how this simple stir-fry transports you to tropical bliss with every delicious bite.
Print
Pineapple Fried Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stir-Frying
- Cuisine: Thai-Inspired
- Diet: Dairy-Free
Description
A vibrant and flavorful Thai-inspired Pineapple Fried Rice featuring sweet pineapple, colorful vegetables, scrambled eggs, and aromatic spices. This dish combines the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy notes, making it an easy and satisfying main course that can be customized with your choice of protein or served in a pineapple bowl for an impressive presentation.
Ingredients
Vegetables & Fruits
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup diced pineapple (fresh or canned, drained)
- 1/2 cup diced carrots
- 1/2 cup frozen peas
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
Proteins
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
- Optional: cooked shrimp, chicken, or tofu for extra protein
Pantry & Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 cups cold cooked jasmine rice
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional)
- 1 teaspoon curry powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup roasted cashews (optional)
Garnishes
- Lime wedges
- Fresh cilantro
Instructions
- Scramble the eggs: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Pour in the lightly beaten eggs and scramble until fully cooked. Remove the scrambled eggs from the pan and set aside.
- Sauté aromatics and vegetables: Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the same pan. Sauté the finely chopped onion for 2–3 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic, diced carrots, and pineapple, cooking for an additional 3–4 minutes until the pineapple begins to caramelize.
- Add peas and rice: Mix in the frozen peas followed by the cold cooked jasmine rice, breaking apart any clumps with a spatula. Stir to combine thoroughly.
- Season the rice: Add soy sauce, fish sauce if using, curry powder, and black pepper. Toss everything together to ensure the rice and vegetables are evenly coated and heated through, about 3–5 minutes.
- Finish the dish: Return the scrambled eggs to the pan and stir in chopped green onions and roasted cashews if using. Mix well and remove from heat.
- Serve: Plate the fried rice while hot and garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and lime wedges for a bright, zesty finish. For a special presentation, serve inside a hollowed-out pineapple.
Notes
- Use day-old cooked rice for best texture and to prevent sogginess.
- Feel free to add protein such as cooked shrimp, chicken, or tofu to enhance the dish.
- Serving the fried rice in a hollowed-out pineapple makes for an attractive, festive presentation.
- This recipe is dairy-free but can be adapted to your dietary needs.
