Name: Thai Pineapple Fried Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Thai
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked jasmine rice (preferably day-old); 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned); 1 cup bell peppers, diced (mixed colors); 4 green onions, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 3 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce; 2 large eggs, lightly beaten; 1 tsp curry powder; 2 tbsp vegetable oil; ¼ cup cashews or peanuts (optional)

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The aroma of Thai Pineapple Fried Rice wafts through the air, a tantalizing mix of sweet and savory that makes your mouth water. Picture this: fluffy rice, succulent pineapple chunks, and colorful veggies come together in a vibrant dish that looks as good as it tastes.

Whenever I whip up this tropical delight, I’m transported back to sun-soaked beach vacations where every meal felt like a celebration. Perfect for summer gatherings or cozy nights at home, this dish promises to amaze your taste buds and bring smiles to all around the table.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Thai Pineapple Fried Rice is incredibly easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights
The flavor profile is a delightful balance of sweetness and savory goodness that will keep you coming back for more
Visually appealing with bright colors, it’s sure to impress anyone who sees it
Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize based on what you have on hand!

I remember the first time I made this dish for friends; they devoured it within minutes and asked for seconds!

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Jasmine Rice: A fragrant rice that adds an authentic touch to your fried rice; opt for day-old rice if possible.
Pineapple Chunks: Fresh or canned works great; they add a sweet burst of flavor.
Bell Peppers: Use a mix of colors for visual appeal and flavor; they should be crisp and fresh.
Green Onions: These add a mild onion flavor; chop them finely for even distribution.
Garlic: Fresh garlic enhances the aroma and taste; make sure it’s minced finely.
Soy Sauce: Low-sodium variety is best to control saltiness while still delivering umami.
Eggs: They provide richness and protein; scramble them lightly before mixing into the rice.
Curry Powder: A hint of curry powder gives this dish its unique twist; don’t skip it!
Vegetable Oil: For frying; use a neutral oil with a high smoke point.
Cashews or Peanuts (optional): Add these for crunch if you like some extra texture in your dish.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Cook the Rice First: Start by cooking your jasmine rice according to package instructions. Allow it to cool completely before using; day-old rice works best in fried rice dishes.

Sauté the Vegetables: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.

Add Pineapple and Bell Peppers: Toss in the pineapple chunks and bell peppers. Stir-fry until they soften slightly but still retain their crunch, about 3-4 minutes.

Scramble the Eggs: Push the veggies to one side of the pan. Crack eggs into the empty space and scramble them until just set, then mix with vegetables.

Add Cooked Rice and Seasoning : Add cold cooked rice to the skillet alongside soy sauce and curry powder. Stir everything together until well combined, ensuring every grain gets coated.

Finish with Green Onions and Nuts : Fold in chopped green onions and any nuts if using. Cook for another minute until heated through, then serve hot.

Now you’re ready to indulge in this sweet-savory tropical delight! Enjoy each bite as flavors dance on your palate—it’s simply irresistible!

You Must Know

Thai Pineapple Fried Rice is a versatile dish that perfectly balances sweet and savory flavors
Customize it with your favorite proteins or veggies, making it an ideal weeknight meal
The vibrant colors and tropical aroma will transport you straight to a Thai beach party!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by cooking the rice a day ahead; this ensures it’s dry and perfect for frying. Sauté the aromatics first, followed by veggies and proteins, then add rice for best flavor integration.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out proteins like shrimp or chicken for tofu or tempeh. Add spices such as curry powder or chili flakes for an extra kick that suits your taste.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover fried rice in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat on medium heat in a skillet, adding a splash of water to keep it moist.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Always use cold, day-old rice for the best texture; fresh rice can become mushy
Don’t overcrowd the pan while frying; this helps achieve that lovely golden color
Experiment with different vegetables based on seasonal availability for a unique twist each time!

Sharing my first attempt at making Thai Pineapple Fried Rice was hilarious; I accidentally used sour pineapple! My friends were polite but their faces said it all—always taste your ingredients first!

FAQs

FAQ

What makes Thai Pineapple Fried Rice special?

The combination of sweet pineapple, savory soy sauce, and aromatic spices creates a unique flavor profile.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, simply replace meat with tofu or additional vegetables for a delicious vegetarian option.

How do I store leftover fried rice?

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.