Go Back

Thai Pineapple Fried Rice

Bright, sweet, and quick to make, this Thai Pineapple Fried Rice elevates regular fried rice with delicious flavors and fresh ingredients.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Thai
Calories: 500
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Fried Rice
  • 2 cups Jasmine rice, cold and cooked Cold rice keeps the grains separate.
  • 1 cup Fresh pineapple, diced small Canned works in a pinch, but drain very well.
  • 2 Eggs, lightly beaten For soft curds throughout.
  • 8 ounces Protein (shrimp, chicken thigh, or extra-firm tofu) Use bite-sized pieces.
  • 1 medium Onion Chopped.
  • 1 medium Red bell pepper Chopped.
  • 1/2 cup Scallions Chopped.
  • 2 cloves Garlic, minced
  • 1 inch Ginger, grated A knob of ginger.
  • 1/2 cup Roasted cashews For crunch.
For the Sauce
  • 1 tablespoon Soy sauce Adjust to taste.
  • 2 teaspoons Fish sauce Optional, can substitute with mushroom soy.
  • 1 teaspoon Sugar Adjust to taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Curry powder Optional, for flavor.
  • 1 Lime, for squeezing Finish the dish.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Dice your pineapple into small nuggets, chop onion, bell pepper, and scallions. Mince garlic and grate ginger. If using chicken or shrimp, slice into bite-sized pieces and pat dry.
  2. Use day-old rice if possible. If using fresh, spread it on a sheet pan and chill until ready.
Cooking
  1. Heat a wok or large skillet. Add oil and scramble eggs until just set, then remove to a plate.
  2. Add more oil and sear the protein of your choice until browned and cooked through. Remove to the plate with eggs.
  3. Add onion, bell pepper, garlic, and ginger to the pan and stir-fry for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  4. Add the rice, breaking up clumps. Let it sit for 20 to 30 seconds to get a little toasty before stirring again.
  5. Pour in the sauce and toss well. Fold in the eggs, cooked protein, pineapple pieces, scallions, and cashews. Taste and adjust seasoning as desired.

Notes

Use high heat and enough oil to lightly coat the rice without making it greasy. Don't crowd the pan; cook in batches for best results. Finish with lime and white pepper for enhanced flavor.