Thai Pineapple Fried Rice

Name: Thai Pineapple Fried Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Thai
Ingredients: 2 cups jasmine rice, cooked and cooled; 1 cup pineapple chunks; 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced; 1/2 cup green peas; 1/4 cup onion, diced; 2 eggs, beaten; 1/4 cup cashews or peanuts; 2 green onions, sliced; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional); 1 tablespoon curry powder; 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Cilantro or additional green onions for garnish (optional)

Author: Melon Claire

Published: October 17, 2024

Delicious Thai Pineapple Fried Rice with colorful vegetables and fresh ingredients

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Thai Pineapple Fried Rice is a vibrant, flavorful dish that marries the sweetness of fresh pineapple with the savory notes of jasmine rice, vegetables, and a satisfying crunch.

This recipe is not only easy and quick to prepare but also incredibly comforting, making it a perfect choice for family dinners or casual gatherings. Picture yourself savoring a bowl of this delightful dish, filled with colorful vegetables, crunchy nuts, and aromatic spices. It’s a one-pan wonder that evokes the tropical essence of Thailand with every bite, transporting you to a sunny beachside locale!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Thai Pineapple Fried Rice recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed Sundays. With minimal prep time and simple ingredients, it’s a dish that anyone can whip up in no time. The charm lies not only in its vibrant colors and delightful aromas but also in how quickly it comes together. This fried rice is a crowd-pleaser, appealing to both kids and adults alike, and gives you the freedom to adapt it with your favorite proteins or vegetables. The combination of contrasting textures—from the creamy pineapple to the crispy cashews—makes every mouthful a joyful experience.

Ingredients

2 cups jasmine rice, cooked and cooled: Fluffy and fragrant, this rice serves as the perfect base for our dish. Leftover day-old rice works best, as it has the ideal texture for frying.
1 cup pineapple chunks: Fresh or canned, the juicy pineapple adds a refreshing sweetness that brightens the dish.
1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced: This adds not just a pop of color but also a sweet crunch that balances the flavors.
1/2 cup green peas: These little green gems provide a lovely burst of sweetness and a bit of pop.
1/4 cup onion, diced: The aromatic onions create a savory foundation for frying.
2 eggs, beaten: Adding a fluffy, golden richness, these eggs bring the dish together.
1/4 cup cashews or peanuts: For that essential crunch, these nuts also enhance the dish’s nuttiness.
2 green onions, sliced: Fresh and mild, these green onions lend a nice bite and freshness.
2 tablespoons soy sauce: This brings a savory umami flavor to the fried rice.
1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional): Just a hint adds depth and complexity to the taste.
1 tablespoon curry powder: This spice gives the dish a warm, inviting flavor profile.
1 tablespoon vegetable oil: Essential for sautéing and bringing all the ingredients together.
Salt and pepper to taste: Basic seasonings that can be adjusted according to your preference.
Cilantro or additional green onions for garnish (optional): A final touch that adds color and freshness.

Step-by-Step Directions

Prepare the jasmine rice: According to package instructions, cook the jasmine rice and let it cool completely. Day-old rice is preferred as it has a firmer texture that fries up better.
Sauté vegetables: In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and red bell pepper, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent—this usually takes about 2-3 minutes.
Scramble the eggs: Push the sautéed vegetables to one side of the skillet. Pour the beaten eggs into the other side and scramble until fully cooked. Once done, mix the eggs with the vegetables.
Add the rice: Stir in the cooled jasmine rice, combining it well with the sautéed vegetables and eggs.
Mix in the remaining ingredients: Add the pineapple chunks, green peas, cashews, soy sauce, fish sauce (if using), and curry powder. Mix everything thoroughly and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Season to taste: Add salt and pepper according to your preference, ensuring everything is well-seasoned.
Finish with green onions: Finally, stir in the sliced green onions and remove the skillet from heat.
Serve and garnish: Serve the fried rice in bowls, garnished with fresh cilantro or additional green onions, if desired for extra vibrancy.

Tips & Tricks

Use day-old rice: This prevents the rice from becoming mushy while frying. If you don’t have leftover rice, spread freshly cooked rice on a baking sheet and refrigerate for at least an hour before using.
Customize your proteins: Feel free to add proteins like chicken, shrimp, or tofu to amp up the dish. Just cook them before the veggies and set them aside, then add them back in when you stir in the rice.
Adjust sweetness: For an extra hint of sweetness, consider adding a splash of pineapple juice or a pinch of sugar.
Make it spicier: Add a sliced chili pepper or some chili flakes for a kick if you prefer a spicy version.
Experiment with vegetables: Incorporate other vegetables like carrots or zucchini for added nutrition and color.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Thai Pineapple Fried Rice can be served as a standalone dish or as a side. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats or seafood, making it ideal for summer barbecues. For extra flair, consider serving it in hollowed-out pineapple halves for a stunning presentation at your next party. Additionally, it can accompany dishes like Thai curry or satay skewers, enhancing any meal’s exotic feel.

Nutritional Information

This recipe serves approximately 4 people with each serving containing:

Calories: Approximately 320
Protein: 8g
Fat: 12g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 3g

It’s a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, healthy fats, and protein. To maintain a healthy balance, pair it with a green salad or steamed vegetables.

Storing Tips & Variations

Storing: Store any leftover fried rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the fried rice in individual portions. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat it in a microwave or on the stove with a splash of water to maintain moisture.
Variations: Feel free to switch up the vegetables according to season or preference. You could also replace the soy sauce with tamari for a gluten-free option or use quinoa instead of rice for a lighter meal.

Conclusion

Thai Pineapple Fried Rice is a delightful dish that combines sweetness, savory flavors, and a satisfying crunch, making it a must-try for any home cook. With its straightforward preparation and vibrant flavors, this recipe not only nourishes the body but also warms the heart. So why not give this recipe a try? I guarantee you won’t be able to resist seconds. Share your experience and let me know how your version turned out!

FAQs

1. Can I use brown rice instead of jasmine rice?

Absolutely! Brown rice will give it a nuttier flavor and more fiber. Just note that it may require a longer cooking time.

2. Is it necessary to use fish sauce?

Fish sauce adds depth, but you can omit it if you prefer. Tamari or additional soy sauce can be used as a substitute.

3. What if I don’t have cashews or peanuts?

Feel free to replace them with sunflower seeds or omit them entirely. The dish will still taste great!

4. Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Simply omit the eggs or replace them with scrambled tofu for a vegan option.

5. How can I spice this dish up?

You can add chili peppers or chili paste to heat it up. Adjust according to your taste preference for a personalized touch.

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