Can I use brown rice instead of jasmine rice?

Absolutely! Brown rice works wonderfully and adds a nutty flavor and extra nutrition. Just be aware that it may have a slightly chewier texture. Make sure it's also cold and day-old for best results in preventing mushiness.

Is there a substitute for fish sauce if I'm vegetarian?

Yes, there are several options. You can use vegetarian "fish sauce" (available at Asian markets), or substitute with an extra tablespoon of soy sauce mixed with a pinch of sugar and a splash of lime juice. You'll miss some depth of flavor, but the dish will still be delicious.

Why is my fried rice turning out mushy?

The most common culprit is using freshly cooked warm rice. The rice needs to be cold and preferably day-old, which allows excess moisture to evaporate. Also, make sure your pineapple is well-drained if using canned, and don't overcrowd the pan, which causes steaming rather than frying.

Can I make this dish ahead for a party?

Yes! This dish actually tastes wonderful the next day as the flavors continue to develop. If preparing for a party, you can make it up to a day ahead and gently reheat in a wok or large skillet. Add the cashews and fresh green onions just before serving to maintain their crunch and freshness.

Pineapple Fried Rice Recipe

Name: Pineapple Fried Rice Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Asian-inspired
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons sesame oil, divided; 2 large eggs, lightly beaten; 2 teaspoons minced garlic; ½ cup diced yellow onion; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1 cup diced fresh pineapple (or canned, drained well); 3 cups cold cooked jasmine rice (day-old is best); 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce; 1 tablespoon fish sauce; ½ teaspoon curry powder; ½ teaspoon granulated sugar; ½ cup frozen peas; ½ cup roasted cashews, unsalted; 2 green onions, sliced; Lime wedges; Fresh cilantro for serving

This incredible Pineapple Fried Rice transforms simple ingredients into a flavor-packed meal that strikes the perfect balance between sweet, savory, and tangy. Ready in just 30 minutes, it features caramelized pineapple chunks, colorful veggies, and toasted cashews tossed with aromatic jasmine rice. The secret blend of soy sauce, fish sauce, and mild curry powder creates an authentic Thai-inspired dish that’s versatile enough for a quick weeknight dinner yet impressive enough for guests!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Satisfying: From start to finish in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for those busy evenings when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
Perfect Balance of Flavors: The sweet caramelized pineapple contrasts beautifully with the savory soy sauce and aromatic curry powder, creating that addictive sweet-savory combination that keeps you coming back for more.
Incredibly Versatile: Works brilliantly as a main dish or a side, and you can easily customize it with your favorite protein or whatever veggies you have on hand.
Great for Leftovers: Day-old rice isn’t just acceptable for this recipe—it’s preferred! This makes it the perfect way to transform yesterday’s plain rice into something extraordinary.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Jasmine Rice: Cold, day-old rice works best as it’s drier and less likely to become mushy. The distinct floral aroma of jasmine rice complements the tropical pineapple perfectly.
Pineapple: The star of the show! Fresh pineapple delivers the best caramelized flavor, but well-drained canned pineapple works in a pinch. The sweet-tart balance adds brightness to every bite.
Sesame Oil: Adds a wonderful nutty undertone that elevates the entire dish. Don’t substitute with regular vegetable oil if you can help it—the sesame flavor is worth it.
Eggs: Creates little pockets of protein throughout the dish and adds a lovely texture contrast.
Garlic and Onion: The aromatic foundation that builds depth of flavor.
Red Bell Pepper: Adds a sweet crunch and beautiful color contrast.
Soy Sauce: Brings that essential umami flavor and saltiness.
Fish Sauce: Don’t be intimidated by this ingredient! It adds incredible depth that you simply can’t get from anything else.
Curry Powder: Just a hint adds warmth and complexity without overwhelming the dish.
Sugar: Balances the savory notes and helps caramelize the ingredients.
Frozen Peas: Add a pop of color and sweet flavor.
Cashews: Provide the perfect crunchy texture contrast and a buttery richness.
Green Onions: Add fresh, mild onion flavor and a beautiful finish.
Lime Wedges & Cilantro: These finishing touches bring brightness and freshness that ties everything together.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

Protein Options

Turn this side dish into a complete meal by adding:

Chicken: Dice and stir-fry before adding the vegetables.
Shrimp: Add during the last few minutes of cooking for a tropical seafood twist.
Tofu: Pan-fry until golden and add with the cashews for a vegetarian version.
Ham: Cubed ham adds a salty-sweet element that works beautifully with pineapple.

Vegetable Variations

Broccoli: Small florets add nutrition and a satisfying crunch.
Carrot: Finely diced for color and sweetness.
Snow Peas: Add during the last minute of cooking for a fresh, crisp texture.
Edamame: Swap for regular peas for extra protein.

Flavor Twists

Spicy Version: Add Thai chili or sriracha for heat.
Coconut Variation: Replace a tablespoon of oil with coconut oil and sprinkle with toasted coconut.
Ginger Boost: Add a tablespoon of freshly grated ginger with the garlic for brightness.

How to Make Pineapple Fried Rice

Step 1: Cook the Eggs

Heat ½ tablespoon of sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Pour in the lightly beaten eggs and gently scramble just until set but still tender. Remove them from the pan and set aside – don’t overcook them as they’ll be returning to the pan later.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pan, add the remaining sesame oil and warm it up. Toss in the minced garlic and diced onion, cooking for 1-2 minutes until they become fragrant and the onion starts to turn translucent. This aromatic base is crucial for building flavor.

Step 3: Add Vegetables and Pineapple

Add the diced red bell pepper and cook for another 2 minutes until it begins to soften. Next, introduce the pineapple chunks and cook until they start to caramelize, about 3-4 minutes. This caramelization brings out the natural sweetness of the pineapple and creates wonderful depth of flavor.

Step 4: Incorporate the Rice

Add your cold cooked rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps with your spatula. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until the rice is heated through and starts to crisp up slightly at the edges. Using day-old cold rice is key here – fresh warm rice will turn mushy.

Step 5: Season the Dish

Pour in the soy sauce, fish sauce, curry powder, and sugar. Mix thoroughly to ensure the rice is evenly coated with all the seasonings. The curry powder adds a gentle warmth while the fish sauce provides that authentic Thai depth.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Add the frozen peas, scrambled eggs, and cashews. Continue cooking for another minute or two until everything is heated through. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed. Remove from heat, sprinkle with sliced green onions, and serve with lime wedges and fresh cilantro on the side.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Cold Rice is Non-Negotiable: Always use day-old refrigerated rice. Freshly cooked rice contains too much moisture and will turn mushy when stir-fried.
High Heat and Quick Cooking: Keep your pan hot and move quickly. Fried rice is about fast cooking to retain texture and create that slightly crispy exterior on the rice grains.
Prep Everything First: Have all ingredients chopped, measured, and ready before you start cooking. Once you begin, the process moves fast.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If you’re doubling the recipe, cook in batches. Too much food in the pan lowers the temperature and leads to steaming rather than frying.
Toast the Cashews: For extra flavor, toast the cashews in a dry pan before adding them to the rice. Just a few minutes until golden will enhance their nutty flavor.

How to Serve

As a Main Dish

Serve in a large bowl with lime wedges on the side. The acidity from the lime juice cuts through the richness and brightens all the flavors.

As Part of a Thai-Inspired Feast

Pair with Thai satay skewers, cucumber salad, or spring rolls for a complete meal.

Fun Presentation

For a showstopper presentation, hollow out half a pineapple and serve the fried rice inside the pineapple shell. This makes a beautiful centerpiece for a dinner party.

Perfect Drinks Pairing

This dish pairs wonderfully with Thai iced tea, a cold lager beer, or a slightly sweet Riesling wine that complements the sweet-savory balance.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Pineapple Fried Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually continue to develop, making it sometimes even more delicious the next day.

Freezing

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze Pineapple Fried Rice in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

For best results, reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a small splash of water to revive the rice. A microwave works in a pinch, but you’ll lose some of the texture. Cover and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each.

Meal Prep Option

Prepare all the components separately and refrigerate. When ready to eat, quickly stir-fry everything together for a fresh-tasting meal in minutes.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of jasmine rice?

Absolutely! Brown rice works wonderfully and adds a nutty flavor and extra nutrition. Just be aware that it may have a slightly chewier texture. Make sure it’s also cold and day-old for best results in preventing mushiness.
Is there a substitute for fish sauce if I’m vegetarian?

Yes, there are several options. You can use vegetarian “fish sauce” (available at Asian markets), or substitute with an extra tablespoon of soy sauce mixed with a pinch of sugar and a splash of lime juice. You’ll miss some depth of flavor, but the dish will still be delicious.
Why is my fried rice turning out mushy?

The most common culprit is using freshly cooked warm rice. The rice needs to be cold and preferably day-old, which allows excess moisture to evaporate. Also, make sure your pineapple is well-drained if using canned, and don’t overcrowd the pan, which causes steaming rather than frying.
Can I make this dish ahead for a party?

Yes! This dish actually tastes wonderful the next day as the flavors continue to develop. If preparing for a party, you can make it up to a day ahead and gently reheat in a wok or large skillet. Add the cashews and fresh green onions just before serving to maintain their crunch and freshness.

Final Thoughts

This Pineapple Fried Rice is truly one of those magical recipes that transforms simple ingredients into something extraordinary. The combination of sweet pineapple, savory seasonings, and crunchy cashews creates a dish that feels like a vacation on a plate. Whether you’re cooking for family on a busy weeknight or impressing guests at a dinner party, this versatile recipe delivers big on flavor with minimal effort. Give it a try—I’m confident it will become a regular in your meal rotation!