Thai Pineapple Fried Rice Recipe

Thai Pineapple Fried Rice is a radiant, flavor-packed dish that effortlessly brings together sweet, savory, and zesty notes in every vibrant forkful. Imagine golden rice gently tossed with juicy pineapple, tender tofu, colorful vegetables, and a lively blend of spices—each bite delivers warmth, crunch, and tropical flair. This recipe is perfect for both busy weeknights and special gatherings, instantly brightening your table and mood. If you’re craving a meal that’s comforting, colorful, and fun to share, you’re about to find your new favorite with Thai Pineapple Fried Rice.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Thai Pineapple Fried Rice lies in its simple yet mighty list of ingredients. Each item plays an essential role—bringing crisp veggies, aromatic spices, and bursts of tangy sweetness together for a dish that’s as exciting as it is easy to whip up.

• Jasmine rice (2 cups, cooked, preferably day-old): Day-old rice holds its shape perfectly and soaks up all the scrumptious flavors without turning mushy.
• Pineapple chunks (1 cup, fresh or canned): Fresh pineapple is vibrant and juicy, but canned works just as well for that luscious sweetness.
• Carrot (1 small, diced): Adds color and a satisfying crunch to round out the textures.
• Green peas (½ cup): These little gems pop in every bite and add a lovely green hue.
• Red bell pepper (½, diced): For sweetness, color contrast, and extra crispness in every mouthful.
• Green onions (2, chopped): Lively, mild onion flavor that brightens up the finished dish.
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced): A must-have aromatic that makes every spoonful more tantalizing.
• Ginger (1-inch piece, grated): For warmth and a touch of zesty bite—absolutely essential in Thai cuisine.
• Firm tofu (½ cup, cubed): Packs in plant-based protein and a soft, hearty texture.
• Soy sauce or tamari (2 tablespoons): Lends that signature salty, savory punch; use tamari for a gluten-free version.
• Sesame oil (1 tablespoon): Gives the dish a fragrant, nutty, and authentic finish.
• Curry powder (1 teaspoon): Adds beautiful color and a touch of aromatic spice to every grain.
• Roasted cashews (¼ cup, optional): For a delightful, buttery crunch that takes it over the top.
• Vegetable oil (1 tablespoon): Perfect for sautéing and making sure every element cooks just right.
• Salt and black pepper to taste: Be sure to season to your taste right at the end.
• Fresh cilantro and lime wedges for garnish: These make the whole dish pop with freshness and color.

How to Make Thai Pineapple Fried Rice

Step 1: Prep All Ingredients

Before you fire up the stove, take a little time to chop all your vegetables and pineapple into bite-sized pieces. Mince the garlic and grate the ginger for that fragrant stir-fry base. If you’re using fresh pineapple, carefully remove the core to avoid chewy bits, while canned pineapple should be drained well so it doesn’t water down the rice. This step sets you up for a smooth and stress-free cooking experience.

Step 2: Prep the Rice

Using day-old rice truly makes a difference—its grains are drier and separate beautifully, just what you want for the perfect Thai Pineapple Fried Rice. If you only have fresh rice, spread it out on a tray and pop it in the fridge for about 30 minutes to dry it out a bit. This quick fix keeps your fried rice from turning sticky or clumpy.

Step 3: Cook the Tofu and Aromatics

Get your pan or wok nice and hot, then add the vegetable oil. Toss in the cubed tofu and let it sizzle for 3 to 4 minutes until it’s nicely golden on all sides—crispy on the outside, soft on the inside. Scoop the tofu out and set it aside for later. Drop the minced garlic and grated ginger into the same pan, stir-frying for about 30 seconds until your kitchen smells amazing. Watch closely so nothing burns!

Step 4: Stir Fry the Vegetables

Add the diced carrots, green peas, and red bell pepper to your pan. Stir-fry these veggies for a good 3 to 4 minutes—they should soften just a tad but keep their crunch and vibrant colors. This step gives the fried rice its signature lively texture and beautiful visual appeal.

Step 5: Add Pineapple and Spices

Next, toss in those juicy pineapple chunks. Let them warm through for about 2 minutes, so their natural sweetness infuses the whole dish. Now sprinkle in the curry powder—this brings out stunning golden hues and irresistible warmth. If you like a little heat, a pinch of red chili flakes is the way to go. Stir well to ensure the spices coat every piece.

Step 6: Add the Rice

Now the real magic begins! Add your prepared rice to the pan, breaking up any lumps with a spatula. Stir everything together so every grain gets in on the flavorful action. The rice should soak up the vibrant colors and aromas, making it the star of the show.

Step 7: Season and Combine

Pour in the soy sauce and sesame oil, then stir everything thoroughly for another 3 to 4 minutes. This is where you build those classic Thai Pineapple Fried Rice flavors! Return the cooked tofu to the pan and fold it gently into the mix, filling your pan with heartwarming texture and savory goodness.

Step 8: Add the Final Touches

To finish, stir in the chopped green onions and roasted cashews, if using. The onions add a zippy freshness while the cashews provide a buttery crunch. Taste and adjust salt and black pepper until everything shines. These last additions give the fried rice its signature zest and life.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy

Remove the pan from the heat and scoop your Thai Pineapple Fried Rice onto serving plates. Sprinkle generously with fresh cilantro and tuck a few lime wedges on the side for extra brightness. Serve it warm and watch your guests (or family) delight in every bite!

How to Serve Thai Pineapple Fried Rice

Garnishes

A good garnish can transform your fried rice from simple to spectacular. I love showering mine with lots of chopped fresh cilantro for a citrusy punch, and squeezing on a bit of lime at the table really lifts the flavors. Roasted cashews or a sprinkle of extra green onions will add another layer of crunch and vibrancy that everyone will appreciate.

Side Dishes

Thai Pineapple Fried Rice is hearty enough to stand alone, but pairing it with a light Thai cucumber salad or some quick-pickled veggies is a refreshing way to round out the meal. If you want a little more protein, satay skewers or crispy spring rolls make wonderful companions.

Creative Ways to Present

For a true showstopper, serve your Thai Pineapple Fried Rice in a hollowed-out pineapple shell—guaranteed to get oohs and aahs at the table! For parties, portion it into small bowls and let everyone garnish their own. A sprinkle of toasted coconut on top adds a delightful, tropical surprise.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with extra Thai Pineapple Fried Rice (lucky you!), simply let it cool completely and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh and flavorful for up to 3 days, making it fantastic for next-day lunches.

Freezing

For longer storage, you can freeze Thai Pineapple Fried Rice. Cool the rice thoroughly, transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating to keep the veggies and tofu from becoming too mushy.

Reheating

The quickest way to bring your leftovers back to life is a quick toss in a hot skillet with a splash of oil or water. If using the microwave, cover the rice with a damp paper towel to help maintain its moisture and fluff. Whichever method you choose, garnish with a few fresh herbs and a wedge of lime for that just-cooked flavor.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of jasmine rice?

Absolutely! Brown rice adds a lovely nutty flavor and extra fiber. Just be sure it’s also day-old for the best texture, and cook it a little longer in the pan since the grains are heartier.

What protein can I use besides tofu?

You can easily swap out the tofu for cooked shrimp, chicken, or even scrambled eggs for a more traditional take. If you’re vegan, tempeh is a great alternative for a firmer texture.

Is Thai Pineapple Fried Rice spicy?

By default, Thai Pineapple Fried Rice is mild and kid-friendly, but you can always add red chili flakes or sliced fresh chili to dial up the heat to your liking.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Simply use tamari instead of soy sauce for all that umami flavor without any gluten. Double-check any other sauces you add to ensure they’re certified gluten-free.

How do I keep my fried rice from getting soggy?

Make sure to use day-old or well-chilled rice—this is the secret to achieving those beautiful separate grains. Also, drain any canned pineapple thoroughly, and avoid overcrowding the pan so everything gets perfectly stir-fried and not steamed.

Final Thoughts

There’s something utterly joyful about digging into a bowl of homemade Thai Pineapple Fried Rice—it’s bright, zesty, and bursting with layers of flavor that will wake up your taste buds. I can’t recommend it enough for a quick dinner, meal prep, or an impressive dish for your next gathering. Give it a go, have fun with the garnishes, and let your kitchen fill with tropical aromas!

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