Pineapple Fried Rice (Thai) Recipe

Introduction

Pineapple Fried Rice is a vibrant and flavorful Thai dish that combines sweet pineapple with savory seasonings and crisp vegetables. Perfect for using leftover jasmine rice, this recipe delivers a delicious balance of sweet, salty, and umami notes in every bite.

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 2 garlic cloves, finely minced
• 1/2 onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 red capsicum (bell pepper), diced (~3/4 cup)
• 1/2 cup frozen peas
• 3 cups day-old jasmine rice, cooked
• 1 1/2 cups pineapple pieces, fresh or canned drained (~220g)
• 1/2 cup green onion, sliced
• 1 tbsp oyster sauce
• 1 1/2 tbsp fish sauce
• 1/2 tsp sugar
• 1 1/2 tbsp light or all-purpose soy sauce (not dark soy)
• 1 tbsp Thai seasoning (such as Gold Mountain)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Heat vegetable oil in a wok or large non-stick skillet over high heat until hot.
2. Step 2: Add the minced garlic and chopped onion, cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant and slightly softened.
3. Step 3: Stir in the diced red capsicum and cook for another minute.
4. Step 4: Add the frozen peas and stir for 30 seconds to combine and heat through.
5. Step 5: Add the cooked jasmine rice along with oyster sauce, fish sauce, sugar, soy sauce, and Thai seasoning. Cook while stirring constantly for about 2 minutes until the rice absorbs the sauce and becomes slightly caramelized.
6. Step 6: Gently fold in the pineapple pieces and stir for just 30 seconds to warm them through.
7. Step 7: Stir through the sliced green onions, then serve immediately while hot.

Tips & Variations

• Use day-old rice chilled in the fridge to prevent clumping and achieve the best fried rice texture.
• For extra protein, add cooked shrimp, chicken, or tofu with the vegetables.
• Adjust the level of fish sauce and soy sauce to your taste for saltiness.
• Try adding chopped cashews or roasted peanuts for crunch.
• Fresh pineapple adds a brighter sweetness, but canned works well if drained thoroughly.

Storage

Store leftover pineapple fried rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or oil if needed to loosen the rice. Avoid microwaving for best texture.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of rice besides jasmine?

While jasmine rice is preferred for its fragrance and texture, you can use long-grain white rice or basmati rice. Avoid sticky or short-grain rice which tends to clump.

Is this dish spicy?

The recipe as written is mildly savory and sweet with no heat. Add chopped chili or a dash of chili flakes if you want to introduce some spice.