Name: Pineapple Fried Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp garlic, minced; 1 tsp ginger, minced; 1/2 cup onion, chopped; 1/2 cup carrot, chopped; 1/2 cup red bell pepper, chopped; 1/2 cup green peas; 1 1/2 cups pineapple, chopped; 1 tbsp soy sauce; 1 tbsp vinegar; 1 tsp ground white pepper; 4 cups cooked jasmine rice; 1/4 cup green onions, chopped

If you’re looking for a vibrant, flavorful dish that transports you straight to the tropics, look no further than pineapple fried rice. This delightful combination of sweet pineapple, crunchy vegetables, and perfectly cooked jasmine rice makes for a colorful and satisfying meal. It’s a fantastic way to use up leftover rice and is incredibly flexible—perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun weekend lunch.

The best part? This recipe is simple and requires just a handful of ingredients you probably already have at home. Join me on this culinary adventure as we explore how to create the perfect pineapple fried rice in your very own kitchen!

Why You’ll Keep Making It

Pineapple fried rice is not your average fried rice. The unique sweetness from the pineapple perfectly balances the savory flavors of the vegetables and rice. Here are a few reasons why this dish will become a staple in your cooking repertoire:

– Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
– Flavor Explosion: The combination of garlic, ginger, and soy sauce creates a mouthwatering taste that you won’t be able to resist.
– Customizable: Add your favorite proteins like shrimp, chicken, or tofu to make this dish your own.
– Healthful Ingredients: Packed with colorful vegetables and fresh pineapple, it’s a dish you can feel good about serving to your family.

Your Shopping Guide

Before you start cooking, gather the following ingredients to make your pineapple fried rice:

2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp garlic, minced
1 tsp ginger, minced
1/2 cup onion, chopped
1/2 cup carrot, chopped
1/2 cup red bell pepper, chopped
1/2 cup green peas
1 1/2 cups pineapple, chopped
1 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp vinegar
1 tsp ground white pepper
Salt to taste
4 cups cooked jasmine rice
1/4 cup green onions, chopped

Equipment Breakdown

To make your pineapple fried rice, you will need the following kitchen equipment:

Wok or Large Skillet: Ideal for stir-frying and allows for even cooking.
Spatula: Perfect for stirring and mixing ingredients.
Chopping Knife: For chopping vegetables and pineapple.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: To ensure you have the right amounts of each ingredient.

Cooking Pineapple Fried Rice: The Process

Now that you have everything ready, let’s dive into the cooking process. Follow these steps to create your delicious pineapple fried rice:

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by chopping your vegetables—onions, carrots, red bell peppers, and green onions. Make sure your pineapple is chopped into bite-sized pieces. Having everything prepped will make the cooking process smoother.

Step 2: Heat the Oil

In a large wok or skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic and ginger, stirring for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Add Vegetables

Add the chopped onions, carrots, and red bell peppers to the pan. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften. Then, throw in the green peas and cook for another minute.

Step 4: Incorporate Pineapple

Add the chopped pineapple to the skillet. Stir everything together, allowing the pineapple to caramelize slightly with the vegetables for about 2 minutes.

Step 5: Season the Mixture

Pour in 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of vinegar, and sprinkle with 1 teaspoon of ground white pepper. Adjust the salt to taste. Mix well to ensure all the ingredients are coated with the sauce.

Step 6: Add the Rice

Now it’s time to add the star of the dish—your cooked jasmine rice! Break up any clumps and stir it into the vegetable and pineapple mixture. Continue to stir-fry for about 3-5 minutes until everything is heated through.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Finally, stir in the chopped green onions. Remove the skillet from heat, and your pineapple fried rice is ready to be served! Enjoy it as a standalone dish or pair it with your favorite protein for a complete meal.

Adaptations for Special Diets

Pineapple fried rice is naturally versatile, and you can easily adapt it for various dietary needs:

Vegetarian/Vegan: This recipe is already vegetarian, and you can keep it vegan by ensuring the soy sauce is plant-based.
Gluten-Free: Substitute regular soy sauce with gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos.
Protein Additions: Add shrimp, chicken, or tofu for a protein boost. Just ensure to cook them before adding to the rice.
Low-Carb: Use cauliflower rice instead of jasmine rice for a low-carb option.

Watch Outs & How to Fix

While making pineapple fried rice is straightforward, here are a few common pitfalls and how to fix them:

Sticky Rice: If your rice is too sticky, make sure to use day-old rice or thoroughly cool freshly cooked rice before frying.
Too Salty: If you accidentally oversalt, balance it out with a bit of extra pineapple or a splash of vinegar.
Burning Ingredients: Keep the heat at medium to avoid burning the garlic and ginger. Stir frequently for even cooking.

Freezer-Friendly Notes

Planning for leftovers? Pineapple fried rice freezes beautifully!

Allow the fried rice to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
Label with the date, and it can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.

Common Questions

Can I use fresh or canned pineapple?

Both fresh and canned pineapple work well in this recipe. If using canned, make sure to drain it well to avoid excess moisture.

What type of rice is best for pineapple fried rice?

Jasmine rice is ideal for pineapple fried rice due to its fragrant aroma and fluffy texture. However, you can also use basmati or long-grain rice.

Can I make this dish spicy?

Absolutely! Add some chopped chili peppers or a dash of sriracha to the mix for a spicy kick.

How can I make this a complete meal?

To turn your pineapple fried rice into a complete meal, consider adding protein such as chicken, shrimp, or tofu. You can stir-fry them separately and mix them in toward the end of cooking.

If you enjoyed this pineapple fried rice recipe, you may also want to try:

Save & Share

If you loved this recipe, make sure to share it with your friends and family! Tag your photos on social media so we can see your delicious creations. Pineapple fried rice is not just a dish; it’s an experience that brings joy and flavor to your table.

The next time you’re in the mood for something bright and exciting, whip up a batch of pineapple fried rice. With its irresistible combination of sweet and savory flavors, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home as it has in mine. Happy cooking!

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