Thai Pineapple Fried Rice

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Author: Elsa Nelson
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Thai Pineapple Fried Rice

Step into a world of vibrant flavors and comforting aromas with this indulgent Thai Pineapple Fried Rice. This delicious dish is a symphony of sweet and savory notes, rich textures, and tropical flair, bound together with fluffy jasmine rice.

Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an exciting weekend treat, this recipe will transport you to a sun-soaked beach while reminiscing about childhood moments spent around the dinner table. Its bright colors and playful textures make it not only appealing to adults but also incredibly kid-friendly, ensuring that every bite is a joyous experience. With every mouthful, you’ll taste the sunny essence of Thailand, making it a dish worth making again and again.

Are You Ready for a Taste Adventure?

Have you ever craved a dish that effortlessly combines a delightful sweetness with scrumptious umami flavors? Picture yourself savoring the combination of juicy pineapple, crunchy cashews, and perfectly cooked vegetables all hugged by a warm blanket of fragrant rice.

It’s the kind of meal that makes your taste buds sing and creates lasting memories. So, are you ready to embark on this delicious culinary journey?

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why you need to whip up this irresistible Thai Pineapple Fried Rice:

  • Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time and straightforward cooking steps, you can have this beautiful dish on the table in less than 30 minutes.
  • Healthy: Packed with colorful vegetables and the sweetness of pineapple, it’s a refreshing, wholesome option that balances flavors beautifully.
  • Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is a hit at every gathering, ensuring that everyone leaves the table satisfied and smiling.
  • Minimal Ingredients: If you have leftover rice, this dish comes together with just a handful of ingredients that you likely already have on hand.

Ingredients

To create this tantalizing Thai Pineapple Fried Rice, gather the following ingredients with love:

  • 2 cups jasmine rice, cooked and cooled: The fragrant, fluffy foundation of your dish.
  • 1 cup pineapple chunks, fresh or canned: Sweet bursts of tropical goodness.
  • 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced: A pop of color and crunch that enhances every bite.
  • 1/2 cup green peas, fresh or frozen: Little gems that offer bright, fresh flavors.
  • 1/4 cup onion, diced: Sweet and aromatic, a true flavor enhancer.
  • 2 eggs, beaten: For that luscious, comforting richness and added texture.
  • 1/4 cup cashews or peanuts: Crunchy, nutty snacks that elevate the dish.
  • 2 green onions, sliced: A sprinkle of freshness to finish it off.
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce: The savory, salty depth that ties everything together.
  • 1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional): Just a hint of umami, or skip it for a vegetarian-friendly option.
  • 1 tablespoon curry powder: Infuses warmth and warmth into the dish.
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil: For sautéing to perfection.
  • Salt and pepper to taste: To adjust and perfect the flavors.
  • Cilantro or additional green onions for garnish (optional): A finishing touch that brightens up your dish.

Timing

In less than 30 minutes, you can create a meal that feels like a cozy hug. Whether you’re aiming for quick indulgence or a casual meal shared with friends and loved ones, this recipe strikes the perfect balance.

Think about all the warm dinners you can create without spending hours slaving away in the kitchen, giving you more time to savor the delightful moments with your loved ones.

Step-by-Step

  1. Begin your culinary adventure with jasmine rice that has been cooked and allowed to cool completely. This will ensure that the rice is separated and fluffy, perfect for stir-frying.

  2. In a large skillet or wok, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. As the oil shimmers, it’s time to add the diced onions and red bell pepper. Sauté until the onion transforms into a translucent glory, filling your kitchen with tantalizing aromas.

  3. Once your veggies are sautéed, push them to one side of the skillet, and pour in the beaten eggs to the other side. Watch as they scramble beautifully, enveloping the skillet with their rich, comforting scent.

  4. Once the eggs are fully cooked, mix them into the veggies, creating a warm, rich filling.

  5. Next, add the cooked rice lovingly to the skillet. Stir to coat it in that colorful medley.

  6. Stir in the reserved pineapple chunks, green peas, cashews, and the flavorful soy sauce, fish sauce, and curry powder. Mix everything well to allow the flavors to meld.

  7. Let this delightfully colorful symphony cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, creating an aromatic masterpiece.

  8. Finally, a pinch of salt and pepper is all that’s needed, followed by stirring in the green onions. Your Thai Pineapple Fried Rice is radiating warmth and flavor; remove it from heat.

  9. Serve it piping hot in generous bowls, garnishing it with fresh cilantro or green onions, if desired.

Nutritional Information

With a calorie count that varies but typically sits around 350-450 calories per serving, this dish tantalizes your taste buds without overwhelming your calorie count.

It’s a wonderful reminder that comfort food can also be nourishing. And for those indulgent days, remember that moderation is key to enjoying life’s delightful flavors.

Healthier Alternatives

For those seeking a lighter touch, consider these alternatives:

  • Substitute brown rice for jasmine rice for additional fiber.
  • Use egg whites instead of whole eggs to cut down on fat.
  • Opt for low-sodium soy sauce to manage salt intake.
  • Choose not to use fish sauce for a vegetarian-friendly option; you can add more soy sauce or coconut aminos for a similar umami kick.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Thai Pineapple Fried Rice with:

  • A scoop of coconut ice cream: The creamy sweetness complements the savory notes perfectly.
  • Enjoy it during festive gatherings or casual weeknight meals. It’s versatile enough to be a side or a main dish that steals the show!

Common Mistakes

Here are a few pitfalls to avoid:

  • Overcooking the rice can lead to mushiness; ensure you use day-old rice for the best texture.
  • Skipping the cooling step can result in clumpy fried rice.
  • Not prepping all your ingredients beforehand can lead to a chaotic cooking process.

Storing Tips

For leftovers, consider these simple steps:

  • Freezing portions is a great option. Make sure to cool completely before transferring to airtight containers.
  • When reheating, add a splash of water to prevent the rice from drying out, and use the microwave or skillet, stirring frequently until heated through.

Tempted to Cook it ASAP?

This Thai Pineapple Fried Rice is your secret to a quick yet indulgent meal that dazzles on every plate. With every stir, you’re one leap closer to your next favorite dish. Whether for yourself or loved ones, embrace this culinary adventure that awaits in your kitchen.

FAQs

  1. Can I use brown rice instead of jasmine rice?
    Absolutely! Brown rice offers a nuttier flavor and extra fiber.

  2. Can I make it gluten-free?
    Yes! Just use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari in place of regular soy sauce.

  3. Can I add chicken or shrimp?
    Certainly! Feel free to toss in pre-cooked chicken or shrimp for added protein.

  4. What if I don’t have curry powder?
    You can use a pinch of turmeric and cumin for a similar warm flavor profile.

  5. How can I make this dish spicier?
    Incorporate some chopped chili peppers or a dash of hot sauce to give it that fiery kick!

Thai Pineapple Fried Rice

A vibrant and indulgent dish that combines sweet pineapple, fragrant jasmine rice, and colorful vegetables for a quick and healthy meal.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Thai
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 2 cups jasmine rice, cooked and cooled The fragrant, fluffy foundation of your dish.
  • 1 cup pineapple chunks, fresh or canned Sweet bursts of tropical goodness.
  • 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced A pop of color and crunch.
  • 1/2 cup green peas, fresh or frozen Bright, fresh flavors.
  • 1/4 cup onion, diced Sweet and aromatic.
  • 2 large eggs, beaten For richness and texture.
  • 1/4 cup cashews or peanuts Crunchy, nutty snacks.
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce Adds savory depth.
  • 1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional) Adds umami flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon curry powder Infuses warmth into the dish.
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil For sautéing.
  • to taste salt and pepper Adjust to perfect the flavors.
  • to taste cilantro or additional green onions for garnish (optional) A finishing touch.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Begin with cooked jasmine rice that has been cooled completely to ensure it's separated and fluffy.
  2. In a large skillet or wok, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions and red bell pepper, sautéing until the onions are translucent.
  3. Push the veggies to one side of the skillet and pour in the beaten eggs to scramble.
  4. Once the eggs are fully cooked, mix them into the veggies.
  5. Add the cooked rice and stir to coat it in the veggies.
  6. Stir in the pineapple chunks, green peas, cashews, soy sauce, fish sauce, and curry powder, mixing well.
  7. Let it cook for another 3-5 minutes.
  8. Finish with a pinch of salt and pepper, then stir in the green onions.
  9. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro or green onions if desired.

Notes

For healthier alternatives, consider replacing jasmine rice with brown rice or using egg whites instead of whole eggs. Store leftovers by freezing in airtight containers.

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