Thai Pineapple Fried Rice

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Get ready to embark on a tropical culinary adventure with this delightful Thai Pineapple Fried Rice recipe.

This dish perfectly balances sweet, savory, and nutty flavors while bringing a burst of color to your plate.

Imagine savoring the tender bites of juicy pineapple mixed with vibrant vegetables, crunchy cashews, and fluffy rice, all infused with aromatic ginger and garlic.

Whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a lovely dish for your next gathering, this recipe will surely impress your family and friends.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

Thai Pineapple Fried Rice is a true gem, delivering a mouthwatering flavor combo unlike anything you’ve tried before.

Not only is it delicious, but it is also incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize it according to your taste.

The freshness of the pineapple, combined with colorful veggies and the satisfying crunch of cashews, makes every bite a delight.

Plus, using leftover rice means you can whip it up in no time, making it the perfect last-minute meal.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons (30 ml) vegetable oil
• 1 medium red bell pepper, diced
• 4 green onions, sliced (white and green parts separated)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons fresh grated ginger
• 2 large eggs, beaten with a pinch of salt
• 3 cups (600 g) cooked rice, cold (one-day old rice, I used jasmine)
• 1 ½ tablespoons (22 ml) soy sauce
• 1 ½ cups (250 g) fresh pineapple chunks or canned pineapple, drained
• ½ cup (70 g) cashews, raw
• ¼ cup (40 g) peas, fresh or frozen

How To Make Thai Pineapple Fried Rice

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Before diving into the cooking, gather all your ingredients and prep them.

Dice the red bell pepper, slice the green onions, mince the garlic, and grate the ginger.

If you’re using fresh pineapple, chop it into chunks.

Having everything ready makes the cooking process smooth and quick.

Step 2: Heat the Oil

In a large pan or wok, heat the 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium-high heat.

Once the oil is hot, it’s time to add your vegetables.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

Add the diced red bell pepper, the white part of the green onions, minced garlic, and grated ginger.

Stir-fry these for about 2-3 minutes until they’re softened and fragrant.

The aroma will already start to tantalize your senses!

Step 4: Scramble the Eggs

Push the sautéed veggies to one side of the pan.

Pour the beaten eggs into the cleared space.

Allow them to cook for about a minute, then scramble them gently until just set.

Mix them with the sautéed veggies, incorporating everything together.

Step 5: Add the Rice

Now it’s time to add the cold, cooked rice to the pan.

Break up any clumps with your spatula as you stir everything together.

This step ensures that every grain of rice gets coated in those delicious flavors.

Step 6: Season the Rice

Pour in the soy sauce over the rice and mix thoroughly.

Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.

You want those flavors to really shine!

Step 7: Add the Pineapple and Cashews

Next, add in the pineapple chunks and raw cashews.

These will add a sweet touch and a satisfying crunch to your dish.

Stir everything well and let it cook for another 2-3 minutes.

Step 8: Incorporate the Peas

Finally, add the peas to the mix.

They can be fresh or frozen—both work great.

Cook for an additional minute to warm them through.

Step 9: Garnish and Serve

Turn off the heat and sprinkle the green parts of the sliced green onions over the fried rice as a fresh garnish.

Serve it hot, and let everyone dig in!

Expert Tips

• Use leftover rice for the best texture. Freshly cooked rice can get mushy.
• Feel free to swap in or add other veggies like carrots, corn, or bell peppers for added crunch and nutrition.
• For an extra burst of flavor, add a squeeze of lime juice just before serving.
• Adjust the heat by adding some chili flakes or diced fresh chili if you like it spicy.

Variations and Customizations

• Make it vegetarian by omitting the eggs or replacing them with scrambled tofu.
• Add shrimp or chicken for a protein boost.
• Use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a soy-free version.
• Try different nuts like peanuts or almonds instead of cashews.

How to Store Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

They will keep well for about 3-4 days.

To reheat, simply microwave it for a couple of minutes or stir-fry it in a skillet until heated through.

Just add a splash of water or oil to keep the rice from drying out.

FAQ

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Absolutely! Fresh pineapple adds a wonderful tropical flavor to your fried rice.

Just make sure to chop it into small chunks.

What kind of rice should I use for fried rice?

Jasmine rice is perfect for fried rice due to its fluffy and fragrant nature.

However, you can use any long-grain rice you prefer.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the ingredients in advance and stir-fry them just before serving.

This way, you save time on busy days!

What can I substitute if I’m allergic to nuts?

If you’re allergic to nuts, simply leave out the cashews.

You can add extra peas or even some diced chicken or tofu for additional protein and texture.

Conclusion

Thai Pineapple Fried Rice is the ultimate quick dish that brings vibrant flavors and textures to your table.

With the sweet and savory mix of pineapple, fresh veggies, and crunchy cashews, this meal is not only satisfying but also fun to make.

Plus, it’s incredibly flexible, making it easy to tailor to your taste preferences and dietary needs.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients and start cooking this delightful dish today! Enjoy each bite of this deliciously tropical fried rice, and let it take you on a flavorful journey to the sunny shores of Thailand!

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