Easy & Delicious Homemade Pineapple Fried Rice Recipe
Embark on a culinary journey with this incredibly vibrant and flavorful pineapple fried rice recipe. It’s a dish where the tropical sweetness of juicy fresh pineapple perfectly harmonizes with a medley of tender-crisp vegetables and savory stir-fried rice. This delightful meal is not just a treat for your taste buds but also a feast for your eyes, especially when served in a hollowed-out pineapple shell. Best of all, this simple yet impressive dish comes together in around 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for a quick weeknight dinner or a stunning addition to any gathering.
Why This Pineapple Fried Rice Recipe is a Must-Try
This pineapple fried rice recipe truly stands out for several compelling reasons, making it a beloved dish for many. Firstly, it strikes an exquisite balance between sweet and savory. The vibrant freshness of diced pineapple cuts through the rich, umami notes of the fried rice, creating a flavor profile that is both comforting and exhilarating. The addition of crisp onions, sweet carrots, crunchy bell peppers, and tender peas not only adds a beautiful array of colors but also contributes diverse textures that keep every bite interesting.
Beyond its incredible taste, this recipe is remarkably simple and fast to prepare. In just about 30 minutes, you can transform basic ingredients into a restaurant-quality meal. This makes it a fantastic option for busy weeknights when you crave something wholesome and exciting without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s also incredibly versatile; while delicious on its own, it serves as a perfect canvas for various additions. Whether you prefer to incorporate pork, shrimp, chicken, or even tofu, this fried rice welcomes all kinds of protein, adapting effortlessly to your dietary preferences. The subtle sweetness from the pineapple and the balanced seasonings truly elevate classic fried rice into something special and unforgettable.
Key Ingredients for Perfect Pineapple Fried Rice
To create this irresistible dish, you’ll need a selection of fresh produce, pantry staples, and aromatic seasonings. Find all exact measurements, ingredients, and detailed instructions in the printable recipe card at the end of this post.
Ingredient Breakdown & Smart Substitutions
Understanding each ingredient’s role and knowing possible substitutions can help you tailor this recipe to your taste and what you have on hand.
- PINEAPPLE: We love using fresh pineapple not only for its superior flavor and juiciness but also for the aesthetic advantage of serving the fried rice in its hollowed-out shell. When selecting a fresh pineapple, look for one that smells sweet at the bottom, yields slightly to pressure, and has vibrant green leaves. If fresh isn’t an option, a 20-ounce can of pineapple chunks (thoroughly drained) works well. Always opt for pineapple canned in juice, not heavy syrup, to avoid an overly sweet or artificial taste.
- RICE: The secret to perfect fried rice lies in using day-old, cold cooked rice. Freshly cooked rice is too moist and will result in a mushy texture. Day-old rice is drier, allowing it to crisp up beautifully when stir-fried. Long-grain varieties like Jasmine or Basmati rice are ideal due as they separate nicely and absorb flavors well. If you don’t have day-old rice, cook fresh rice, spread it thin on a baking sheet, and refrigerate it for at least an hour to dry out.
- VEGETABLES: This recipe calls for a colorful mix of diced onion, carrots, red bell pepper, and frozen peas. These vegetables provide essential crunch, sweetness, and nutrients. Feel free to customize with other quick-cooking vegetables like corn, green beans, thinly sliced cabbage, or mushrooms. The key is to dice them to a similar size for even cooking.
- EGGS: Two large eggs are whisked and scrambled into the rice, adding a lovely richness and protein.
- AROMATICS: Freshly minced garlic and ginger are non-negotiable for that authentic Asian flavor profile. They form the aromatic base that elevates the entire dish.
- SAUCES:
- Fish Sauce: This provides a crucial depth of umami and a savory punch. Don’t worry, the finished dish won’t taste fishy!
- Oyster Sauce: Adds a rich, slightly sweet, and savory glaze that binds the flavors together.
- Low Sodium Soy Sauce: Essential for saltiness and umami. Using low sodium allows you to control the overall saltiness better.
- SEASONINGS: A balance of salt, black pepper, and sugar enhances the natural flavors. The sugar helps to balance the savory sauces and complement the pineapple’s sweetness.
- OIL: Use a high smoke point oil like olive oil, canola oil, vegetable oil, or peanut oil for stir-frying.
Simple Steps to Your Best Pineapple Fried Rice
These step-by-step photos and instructions are designed to help you visualize how to make this delightful recipe. For the complete printable version of this recipe, including all measurements and detailed instructions, simply Jump to Recipe at the bottom of this page.
- Sauté Aromatics and Harder Veggies: Heat olive oil (or your preferred cooking oil) in a large deep-sided skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and ginger, sautéing for about 1-2 minutes until they become wonderfully fragrant. Be careful not to burn them! Next, add the diced onion and continue to sauté for an additional 2-3 minutes until it starts to soften. Finally, add the diced carrots, which take a bit longer to cook, and sauté for 3-4 minutes more, aiming for a tender-crisp texture.
- Scramble the Eggs: In a small bowl, whisk the eggs thoroughly. Push the sautéed vegetables to one side of the skillet, creating an empty space. Pour the whisked eggs into the cleared area. Use a rubber spatula to scramble the eggs until they are just set but still moist. Once cooked, mix them gently with the vegetables.
- Add the Sauces: Pour the fish sauce and oyster sauce directly into the skillet. Stir vigorously to ensure all the vegetables and eggs are well coated and infused with these rich, savory flavors.
- Incorporate Rice and Seasonings: Add the cold, cooked white rice to the skillet. Use your spatula to break up any clumps of rice, ensuring it gets evenly distributed and coated with the pan’s contents. Stir in the diced red bell pepper, salt, black pepper, and sugar. Continue to stir and toss everything together thoroughly until the rice is well combined with all the ingredients and starts to heat through.
- Final Additions: Gently fold in the pineapple chunks and frozen peas. Add the low sodium soy sauce. The pineapple adds its signature sweetness and a burst of juiciness, while the peas bring a tender pop of color.
- Serve Hot: Give everything one final stir to ensure it’s perfectly mixed and heated through. Cook for just a minute or two more, then immediately transfer to serving plates or, for an impressive presentation, into a hollowed-out pineapple shell. Enjoy your vibrant and flavorful homemade pineapple fried rice!
Frequently Asked Questions & Expert Tips for Success
Proper storage is key to enjoying your fried rice later. Store any leftovers in an air-tight container in the refrigerator for 1-2 days. For reheating, we recommend adding a splash of water (about 1-2 tablespoons per serving) to a microwave-safe bowl with the fried rice. Cover it with a damp paper towel to help retain moisture and microwave until hot, stirring halfway through. Alternatively, reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a tiny bit of oil, stirring frequently until warmed through.
Yes, pineapple fried rice freezes beautifully! To do so, allow the fried rice to cool completely. Then, transfer it to a large, freezer-safe ziptop bag or an airtight freezer-safe container. Press out any trapped air before sealing the bag to prevent freezer burn. Freeze for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat using the methods described above, adding a bit of extra liquid if needed.
For the best fried rice texture, always use day-old, cold cooked rice. This is crucial because fresh rice contains too much moisture, which can lead to a mushy, clumpy result when stir-fried. Long-grain varieties like Jasmine or Basmati rice are preferred because they cook up fluffy and separate easily, allowing for those perfectly distinct grains in your fried rice. If you don’t have day-old rice, cook some fresh rice, then spread it out on a baking sheet and refrigerate for at least an hour (or ideally, a few hours) to dry it out before stir-frying.
Absolutely! This recipe is highly customizable. You can easily add cooked chicken, shrimp, pork, beef, or tofu to make it a more substantial meal. If adding raw protein, cook it first in the skillet until nearly done, then remove it and set aside. Proceed with the recipe as directed, and add the cooked protein back in with the pineapple and peas during step 5, ensuring it heats through with the rest of the ingredients.
If you love a little heat, there are several ways to kick up the spice level. You can add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the garlic and ginger, stir in some sriracha or chili garlic sauce with the soy sauce, or top individual servings with thinly sliced fresh chilies like bird’s eye chilies. Adjust the amount to your preferred level of spiciness.
“Mise en place” is a French culinary term meaning “everything in its place.” For stir-frying, it’s incredibly important because the cooking process is very fast. Having all your ingredients prepped, measured, and ready to go before you start cooking ensures a smooth process and prevents anything from burning while you’re busy chopping. This includes mincing garlic and ginger, dicing all vegetables, whisking eggs, and measuring out all sauces and seasonings. It makes the 30-minute cooking time truly achievable!
Creative Serving Suggestions & Pairings
This pineapple fried rice is a star on its own, but it can also be the perfect companion to a variety of other dishes. For a heartier meal, as mentioned earlier, consider adding your favorite protein. Cooked and diced chicken breast, succulent shrimp, thinly sliced pork, or even pan-fried tofu cubes integrate seamlessly into the dish, transforming it into a complete main course. For an added textural contrast and nutty flavor, sprinkle some chopped cashews or peanuts over the top just before serving.
If you’re using fresh pineapple and want to make a truly unforgettable presentation, don’t discard the shell! Carefully hollow it out and use it as a beautiful, natural serving bowl. Just remember to pat the interior of the pineapple shell dry with a paper towel before adding the hot rice to prevent it from becoming soggy. This method is particularly popular for summer potlucks, barbecues, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests. Garnish with fresh chopped green onions or cilantro for a pop of color and extra freshness, and serve with lime wedges on the side for a zesty squeeze.
As a side dish, this pineapple fried rice pairs wonderfully with almost any Thai or Chinese main course. Imagine it alongside crispy spring rolls, savory egg rolls, a comforting bowl of hot and sour soup, or a vibrant Asian-inspired salad. Its unique sweet and savory profile makes it a versatile and delicious accompaniment to many different cuisines.
More Delicious Fried Rice Recipes to Explore
If you loved this pineapple fried rice, you’re in for a treat! Fried rice is a versatile and satisfying dish that can be adapted in countless ways. Explore some of our other favorite fried rice recipes for more easy and flavorful meal ideas:
- Pork Fried Rice
- Shrimp Fried Rice
- Chicken Fried Rice
- Cauliflower Fried Rice
- Vegetable Fried Rice
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Pineapple Fried Rice
IMPORTANT – There are often Frequently Asked Questions within the blog post that you may find helpful. Simply scroll back up to read them!
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Course: Dinner, Side Dish
Cuisine: American, Asian
Ingredients
- 1 Tablespoon olive oil
- 1 Tablespoon minced garlic
- ½ Tablespoon minced ginger
- 1 cup diced onion
- 1 cup diced carrots
- 2 large eggs
- 1 ½ Tablespoons fish sauce
- 1 ½ Tablespoons oyster sauce
- 3 cups cooked white rice
- 1 cup diced red bell pepper
- ½ Tablespoon salt
- 2 teaspoons black pepper
- 1 ½ Tablespoons sugar
- 2 cups pineapple chunks
- 1 cup frozen peas
- ½ cup low sodium soy sauce
Things You’ll Need
-
Large deep sided skillet
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Rubber spatula
Before You Begin
- We chopped fresh pineapple ourselves so we could use the pineapple shell to display the rice in. If you prefer, you can use a 20-ounce can of pineapple (be sure to drain it). If using canned pineapple, use the kind that is canned in juice, not syrup.
- If using the pineapple shell for serving, be sure to pat the interior dry before adding the rice.
- Your favorite long grain rice will work for this recipe such as Jasmine or Basmati.
- For best results, use day-old, cold cooked rice. This prevents the fried rice from becoming mushy.
Instructions
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Heat olive oil in a large deep sided skillet over medium-high heat. Add garlic and ginger, saute until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Add onion and saute an additional 2-3 minutes. Add carrots and saute 3-4 minutes more.
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Whisk eggs together in a small bowl. Move the vegetables to one side of the pan and add the scrambled eggs to the other side. Use a rubber spatula to scramble the eggs in the pan, then mix everything together.
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Add fish sauce and oyster sauce to the skillet and stir to combine.
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Stir in the cooked rice, then add red bell pepper, salt, pepper, and sugar. Stir to combine well.
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Finally, add the pineapple chunks, peas and soy sauce.
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Stir everything together and heat for a minute or two before serving.
Expert Tips & FAQs
- Store leftovers in an air-tight container kept in the refrigerator for 1-2 days. Reheat with a splash of water in the microwave until hot, we like to cover ours with a damp paper towel.
- Freezing – transfer the fried rice to a large ziptop bag, expelling any trapped air. Freeze for up to 1 month.
- For best results, always use day-old, cold cooked rice. Fresh rice is too moist and will lead to a mushy texture.
- “Mise en place” (having all ingredients prepped and ready) is crucial for stir-frying, as the cooking process is very fast.
- Feel free to add your favorite cooked protein like chicken, shrimp, pork, or tofu for a heartier meal.
- For an impressive presentation, serve the fried rice in a hollowed-out pineapple shell, after patting the interior dry.
Nutrition
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The recipes on this blog are tested with a conventional gas oven and gas stovetop. It’s important to note that some ovens, especially as they age, can cook and bake inconsistently. Using an inexpensive oven thermometer can assure you that your oven is truly heating to the proper temperature. If you use a toaster oven or countertop oven, please keep in mind that they may not distribute heat the same as a conventional full sized oven and you may need to adjust your cooking/baking times. In the case of recipes made with a pressure cooker, air fryer, slow cooker, or other appliance, a link to the appliances we use is listed within each respective recipe. For baking recipes where measurements are given by weight, please note that results may not be the same if cups are used instead, and we can’t guarantee success with that method.