Thai Pineapple Fried Rice

Thai pineapple fried rice
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If you’re looking for a fun and unique twist on a classic fried rice dish, This Thai Pineapple Fried Rice is the perfect choice.

This colorful dish combines savory, sweet, and tangy flavors, making every bite an exciting adventure for your taste buds.

It’s not only delicious but also a feast for the eyes with its colorful ingredients and beautiful presentation. The addition of pineapple gives it that refreshing tropical flair that transports you straight to the sunny beaches of Thailand.

Whether you’re cooking a cozy dinner or looking to impress guests at a summer gathering, this Thai Pineapple Fried Rice is a winner.

It’s quick to prepare, customizable to your tastes, and perfect for any season. Serve it as a side dish or a main course—it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser!

And the best part? You can add your favorite veggies, and proteins, or even make it vegetarian—this dish has something for everyone.

Plus, it’s the perfect way to use up leftover rice, making it an easy and budget-friendly option for busy weeknights.

Why You’ll Love It

  • This Thai Pineapple Fried Rice is a harmonious blend of savory and sweet, with a satisfying crunch from cashews and a hint of spice from curry powder.
  • The juicy pineapple pieces balance out the richness of the fried rice, and the dish feels like a tropical getaway with every bite.
  • It’s a great way to add variety to your meal plan, and it’s simple enough for anyone to make, even if you’re a beginner in the kitchen.
  • You can also play around with the ingredients, adding shrimp, chicken, or tofu to suit your preferences!
  • Not only does it taste amazing, the recipe is versatile and packed with nutrients. Plus, it’s a one-pan dish, making cleanup a breeze!

Ingredients List

For the Fried Rice:

  • 2 cups cooked jasmine rice (preferably chilled)
  • 1/2 cup diced pineapple (fresh or canned)
  • 1/4 cup diced carrots
  • 1/4 cup peas
  • 1/4 cup diced onions
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 eggs, lightly beaten
  • 1/4 cup chopped green onions
  • 1/4 cup roasted cashews (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon fish sauce (or more soy sauce for a vegetarian version)
  • 1/2 teaspoon curry powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon white pepper
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for cooking)

For Garnish (optional):

  • Lime wedges
  • Extra cilantro or basil leaves for freshness

Feel free to adjust the amount of pineapple or veggies based on your preferences.

Kitchen Tools Needed

To make this Thai Pineapple Fried Rice, you don’t need any fancy equipment, just a few essential kitchen tools to get the job done right:

  • Wok or large skillet: A wok is perfect for stir-frying because of its wide surface and high sides, but any large skillet will do the trick.
  • Wooden spoon or spatula: For stirring the rice and other ingredients around the pan without sticking or damaging the cookware.
  • Knife and cutting board: For chopping vegetables, pineapple, and other ingredients.
  • Measuring spoons and cups: To get the proportions of each ingredient just right.
  • Small bowl: For whisking the eggs before adding them to the pan.

Cooking Instructions

1 Prepare the ingredients:

  • Start by chopping your pineapple, carrots, onions, and garlic.
  • If you’re using fresh pineapple, slice it into small bite-sized pieces.
  • Beat the eggs in a small bowl and set them aside.

2 Cook the eggs:

  • Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
  • Once the oil is hot, pour in the beaten eggs and scramble them, stirring occasionally until they’re cooked through.
  • Remove them from the pan and set them aside.

3 Sauté the vegetables:

  • In the same wok, add a bit more oil if needed and sauté the onions, carrots, and garlic for 2-3 minutes until they start to soften.

4 Add rice and pineapple:

  • Add the cooked rice to the wok and stir-fry for 3-5 minutes, making sure the rice is heated through and slightly crispy.
  • Add the diced pineapple and cook for another 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.

5 Season and combine:

  • Add the soy sauce, fish sauce, curry powder, and white pepper.
  • Stir everything together until well mixed, making sure the rice is evenly coated with the sauce and seasoning.

6 Finish the dish:

  • Toss in the cooked eggs, green onions, and roasted cashews (if using).
  • Stir everything together, and cook for another minute or two until it’s heated.

7 Serve and garnish:

  • Transfer the fried rice to serving plates and garnish with extra green onions, lime wedges, and fresh herbs like cilantro or basil.
  • Serve immediately and enjoy!

More Recipes >>>>>> Tasty Beef Fried Rice Recipe

pineapple fried rice

Tips and Tricks for Success

  1. Use chilled rice: Freshly cooked rice can become mushy when stir-fried, so it’s best to use leftover rice that’s been chilled in the fridge. If you don’t have any leftover rice, cook some in advance and let it cool before using it in the recipe.
  2. Customize your protein: Feel free to add cooked shrimp, chicken, or tofu to make the dish more filling. Just sauté your protein with the veggies, or toss it in at the end with the eggs.
  3. Adjust sweetness: If you like your fried rice extra sweet, add a bit of honey or a splash of pineapple juice to boost the tropical flavor.
  4. Watch the heat: Stir-fry the rice over medium-high heat for the perfect texture. This ensures the rice gets crispy on the edges but doesn’t burn.
  5. Add a little spice: For a bit of extra heat, toss in some chopped fresh chili or a dash of chili flakes along with the curry powder.
  6. Make it vegetarian: For a vegetarian version, simply skip the fish sauce and use extra soy sauce. You can also add extra vegetables like bell peppers or peas for more flavor and color.

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

  1. Rice: Use brown rice or cauliflower rice for a healthier twist. Quinoa works too for a unique texture.
  2. Protein: Swap the eggs with tofu for a vegan version or add cooked shrimp, chicken, or pork for extra protein.
  3. Pineapple: Fresh pineapple is ideal, but canned works in a pinch. Just make sure to drain the juice first.
  4. Sauces: Substitute fish sauce with tamari or coconut aminos for a vegetarian or gluten-free option.
  5. Vegetables: Add bell peppers, zucchini, or broccoli for more variety and nutrition.
  6. Spices: If you’re not a fan of curry powder, use turmeric or smoked paprika for a milder flavor.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve the Thai Pineapple Fried Rice in a hollowed-out pineapple for a stunning presentation.
  • Pair it with spring rolls, Thai green curry, or a light cucumber salad for a complete Thai-inspired meal.
  • Add a side of sweet chili sauce or sriracha for dipping or extra heat.
  • Garnish with lime wedges, chopped cilantro, or a sprinkle of sesame seeds for a fresh finish.

More Recipes >>>>>> Cajun Shrimp And Rice Skillet

pineapple fried rice 1

Storage and Reheating Instructions

  1. Storage: Let the fried rice cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  2. Freezing: You can freeze the fried rice for up to 2 months. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or ziplock bags for easy reheating.
  3. Reheating:
    • Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
    • Stovetop: Reheat in a nonstick skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or oil to keep it from drying out.
    • Oven: Spread the rice on a baking sheet, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F for about 10 minutes.

FAQ

  1. Can I make this ahead of time?
    Yes! Thai Pineapple Fried Rice can be made ahead and reheated, making it perfect for meal prep or a quick weeknight dinner.
  2. Can I use frozen vegetables?
    Absolutely. Frozen peas, carrots, and mixed veggies work well—just thaw them slightly before adding them to the pan.
  3. Is this dish spicy?
    Not particularly. The curry powder adds flavor but not much heat. You can make it spicier by adding fresh chili or chili flakes.
  4. Can I make this vegan?
    Yes! Replace the eggs with scrambled tofu, and use soy sauce or tamari instead of fish sauce.
  5. How do I hollow out a pineapple for serving?
    Cut the pineapple in half lengthwise, leaving the stem intact. Use a knife and spoon to carefully scoop out the flesh, leaving a shell about 1/2 inch thick. Dice the flesh to use in the fried rice.
  6. What can I serve with it?
    This dish is filling on its own, but it pairs beautifully with Thai curries, soups, or fresh salads for a complete meal.

Did you try this recipe? Let me know in the comments how it turned out!

Don’t forget to share your photos on Instagram and tag me @tasiahub. I’d love to see your creations!

Thai pineapple fried rice

Thai Pineapple Fried Rice

This colorful dish combines savory, sweet, and tangy flavors, making every bite an exciting adventure for your taste buds. It’s not only delicious but also a feast for the eyes with its vibrant ingredients and beautiful presentation.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine Thai
Servings 4 servings
Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

  • Wok or Large Skillet
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Knife and Cutting Board
  • Measuring Spoons and Cups
  • Small bowl

Ingredients
  

For the Fried Rice:

  • 2 cups cooked jasmine rice preferably chilled
  • 1/2 cup diced pineapple fresh or canned
  • 1/4 cup diced carrots
  • 1/4 cup peas
  • 1/4 cup diced onions
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 eggs lightly beaten
  • 1/4 cup chopped green onions
  • 1/4 cup roasted cashews optional
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon fish sauce or more soy sauce for a vegetarian version
  • 1/2 teaspoon curry powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon white pepper
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil for cooking

For Garnish (optional):

  • Lime wedges
  • Extra cilantro or basil leaves for freshness

Instructions
 

Prepare the ingredients:

  • Start by chopping your pineapple, carrots, onions, and garlic.
  • If you’re using fresh pineapple, slice it into small bite-sized pieces.
  • Beat the eggs in a small bowl and set them aside.

Cook the eggs:

  • Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
  • Once the oil is hot, pour in the beaten eggs and scramble them, stirring occasionally until they’re cooked through.
  • Remove them from the pan and set them aside.

Sauté the vegetables:

  • In the same wok, add a bit more oil if needed and sauté the onions, carrots, and garlic for 2-3 minutes until they start to soften.

Add rice and pineapple:

  • Add the cooked rice to the wok and stir-fry for 3-5 minutes, making sure the rice is heated through and slightly crispy.
  • Add the diced pineapple and cook for another 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Season and combine:

  • Add the soy sauce, fish sauce, curry powder, and white pepper.
  • Stir everything together until well mixed, making sure the rice is evenly coated with the sauce and seasoning.

Finish the dish:

  • Toss in the cooked eggs, green onions, and roasted cashews (if using).
  • Stir everything together, and cook for another minute or two until it’s heated.

Serve and garnish:

  • Transfer the fried rice to serving plates and garnish with extra green onions, lime wedges, and fresh herbs like cilantro or basil.
  • Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

Nutritional Value (per serving, approximate)

  • Calories: 300-350 kcal
  • Protein: 6-8 g 
  • Fat: 14-16 g 
  • Carbohydrates: 40-45 g
  • Fiber: 2-3 g
  • Sugar: 8-10 g 
  • Sodium: 500-600 mg 
  • Cholesterol: 100-120 mg
  • Vitamins & Minerals: Rich in vitamins A, C, and potassium.
Did you make this recipe? Leave a comment and rating!
Nutrition Disclaimer:
The nutritional information on this website is only an estimate and is provided for convenience and as a courtesy only. The accuracy of the nutritional information for any recipe on this site is not guaranteed. It should not be used as a substitute for a professional nutritionist’s advice.
Keyword fried rice recipe, pineapple and rice recipes, Thai pineapple fried rice

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