This vibrant and flavorful pineapple fried rice is a delightful combination of sweet pineapple, savory vegetables, and aromatic spices. It’s a perfect side dish or a light meal on its own.
Ingredients
For the Fried Rice:
- 2 cups cooked jasmine rice (preferably day-old rice for better texture)
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil (or sesame oil for more flavor)
- 1/2 small onion, chopped
- 1/2 cup bell pepper, chopped
- 1/2 cup frozen peas and carrots, thawed
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
- 1 cup fresh pineapple, cut into small chunks (or canned pineapple, drained)
For the Sauce:
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce (optional)
- 1 tsp fish sauce (optional, for an umami boost)
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp brown sugar (optional, for extra sweetness)
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
For Garnishing:
- 2-3 green onions, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
- Cashews or chopped peanuts (optional, for crunch)
Instructions
- Prepare the Rice
- If using freshly cooked rice, spread it out on a baking sheet to cool, or refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes to help it dry out slightly. Day-old rice works best for fried rice.
- Make the Sauce
- In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce (if using), sesame oil, brown sugar, and red pepper flakes (if using). Set aside.
- Stir-Fry the Vegetables and Eggs
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and peas and carrots. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.
- Push the vegetables to one side of the skillet and pour the beaten eggs into the empty space. Scramble the eggs until fully cooked, then combine with the vegetables.
- Add the Rice and Pineapple
- Add the cooled rice to the skillet and break up any clumps with a spatula. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until the rice is heated through.
- Add the pineapple chunks and pour the sauce over the rice. Stir everything together to coat evenly in the sauce.
- Serve
- Garnish with chopped green onions, fresh cilantro, and cashews or peanuts (if using). Serve hot as a side dish or light meal.
Tips
- Add cooked shrimp, chicken, or tofu for a more substantial meal.
- For extra flavor, drizzle a little more sesame oil on top just before serving.
- You can also toss in other vegetables like corn, baby corn, or mushrooms to customize the fried rice.
Enjoy this sweet and savory pineapple fried rice!