THAI PINEAPPLE FRIED RICE
Thai Pineapple Fried Rice is a delightful fusion of sweet, salty and aromatic elements combined in one vibrant dish. With golden turmeric-tinted jasmine rice, succulent pineapple chunks and crunchy cashews, this tropical stir-fry is colourful and full of flavour. A touch of soy sauce adds depth, while turmeric lends a warm hue and mild earthy taste. This single-serving recipe is perfect for a quick weekday meal or as a creative appetiser or side at your next dinner. Ready in minutes and packed with texture, it offers a satisfying balance of soft and crunchy, savoury and sweet. It’s traditionally served in a hollowed pineapple shell but is equally charming in a simple bowl. This dish is versatile, light and deliciously unique, which adds a taste of Thailand to your everyday table.
RECIPE CATEGORY
Main Course
SERVING SIZE
1
CUISINE
Thai
PREPARATION/TECHNIQUES
Stir-Fry
OCCASION/HOLIDAY
Casual Dinner
SPECIAL CONSIDERATION/DIETARY CONCERNS
Vegetarian
DISH TYPE
Pasta
INGREDIENTS
Here is a list of ingredients for Thai Pineapple Fried Rice:
- ¼ cup cooked jasmine rice
- ¼ cup pineapple chunks
- ¼ teaspoon turmeric
- ½ teaspoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon cashews
FULL NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION
- Calories: 134.9 kcal
- Protein: 3.5 g
- Fat: 4.4 g
- Saturated Fat: 0.8 g
- Carbohydrates: 21.6 g
- Sugars: 4.7 g
- Fibre: 1.9 g
- Sodium: 149.2 mg
- Potassium: 173.3 mg
- Calcium: 12.2 mg
- Iron: 1.4 mg
PREPARATION
These steps are followed for the preparation of Thai Pineapple Fried Rice:
- Prepare The Ingredients: Use day-old cooked jasmine rice for the best texture. Dice the pineapple into bite-sized chunks.
- Heat The Pan: Place a non-stick skillet or wok over medium-high flame. Add a splash of oil (optional) and let it heat until shimmering.
- Add Turmeric To Rice: Toss the rice with turmeric until evenly coated in a small bowl or directly in the pan.
- Stir-Fry The Rice: Add the turmeric-coated rice to the pan and stir-fry for 1–2 minutes to reheat and toast slightly.
- Add Pineapple: Stir in the pineapple chunks and cook for another 1–2 minutes, which allows the edges to caramelise slightly.
- Add Soy Sauce: Pour the soy sauce and stir everything well so the rice absorbs the savoury flavour.
- Top With Cashews: Add the cashews last and stir to distribute evenly. Toast them gently in the pan if desired.
- Serve Immediately: Transfer to a bowl or plate and serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
PREP TIME
5 minutes
COOKING TIME
7 minutes
TIPS
- Use Cold Rice: Chilled, day-old rice separates easily, giving the dish a perfect fried texture.
- Choose Ripe Pineapple: Sweet, ripe pineapple offers the best contrast to savoury elements.
- Toast Cashews First: Before adding them, toast cashews in a dry pan for extra crunch and nuttiness.
- Add Soy Sauce Gradually: Adjust to taste while watching sodium levels.
- Don’t Overcrowd The Pan: Cook everything in a single layer to avoid steaming the rice.
VARIATIONS
- Vegan-Friendly: Use tamari or coconut aminos for a soy-free, gluten-free, vegan option.
- Protein Boost: Add scrambled egg, tofu or grilled chicken for a more filling meal.
- Spice It Up: Include a pinch of chilli flakes or fresh red chilli for heat.
- Herbaceous Touch: Garnish with fresh cilantro or Thai basil to brighten the dish.
- Add Vegetables: Mix peas, carrots or bell peppers for added nutrition and colour.
- Fruity Twist: Try adding mango or raisins for a different sweet dimension.
- Nut-Free Option: Swap cashews for sunflower seeds or omit them entirely.
- Serve In Pineapple: Hollow out a pineapple half and serve the rice inside for a fun presentation.
PREPPING AND STORAGE
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.
- Freezing: Not recommended as pineapple may become watery and affect texture.
- Meal Prep Tip: Mix rice, pineapple, and cashews in separate containers before eating.
- Reheat Gently: Use a splash of water in the pan while reheating to keep the rice moist.
- Avoid Overmixing: Gently fold ingredients to prevent the rice from breaking or becoming mushy.