SOY-FREE OPTION*   GLUTEN-FREE OPTION**   OIL-FREE OPTION***

This is my favorite way to use leftover rice. Chock full of veggies and pineapple and either edamame or chickpeas, it makes for a quick meal.

Pineapple fried rice is a delightful and flavorful dish that combines the sweetness of pineapple with savory ingredients and aromatic spices. It is a popular dish in Southeast Asian cuisine, particularly in Thai cuisine, known for its vibrant flavors and unique combination of ingredients.

This dish typically features cooked rice stir-fried with a variety of colorful vegetables, protein (such as edamame or chickpeas), and a tangy-sweet pineapple component. The result is a harmonious blend of textures and flavors that make pineapple fried rice a delicious and satisfying meal.

The key ingredient in pineapple fried rice is, of course, the pineapple itself. The sweetness and slight tang of fresh pineapple add a refreshing element to the dish, complementing the savory and aromatic ingredients. The pineapple is often cut into chunks and incorporated into the stir-fry, lending its natural juices to infuse the rice with a delightful tropical flavor.

The vegetables used in pineapple fried rice contribute both taste and vibrant colors to the dish. Common choices include bell peppers, onions, green peas, and baby corn, which add a combination of crunch and mild sweetness. These vegetables, along with the pineapple, create a visually appealing and appetizing presentation.

Protein options can vary based on personal preference and dietary choices. Traditional recipes may include edamame, a type of soybean, which provides a good source of plant-based protein. However, chickpeas can be used as an alternative, offering a similar protein-rich addition to the dish.

To enhance the flavors, the dish is often seasoned with a delicious sauce. This sauce typically consists of ingredients such as grated ginger, minced garlic, tamarind paste, and soy sauce (with options for gluten-free alternatives). The sauce brings together the savory, tangy, and umami elements, infusing the rice and other ingredients with a delightful depth of flavor.

Overall, pineapple fried rice is a versatile and customizable dish that can be adapted to personal taste preferences and dietary needs. Whether enjoyed as a vegetarian or vegan option or paired with your choice of protein, this dish offers a delightful balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors, making it a crowd-pleasing favorite for any occasion.

YIELD: 6 servings

TOTAL PREP TIME: 20 minutes

TOTAL COOKING TIME: 20 to 25 minutes

INGREDIENTS

FOR THE SAUCE:

• 4 tablespoons (32 g) grated ginger
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon tamarind paste
• 2 tablespoons (28 ml) soy sauce (use coconut aminos or gluten-free soy sauce)
• 2 tablespoons (28 ml) water

FOR THE RICE:

• 1 to 2 tablespoons (15 to 28 ml) sesame oil (use water or broth)
• 1/2 small onion, minced
• 1 bell pepper, cored, seeded, and minced
• 2 cups (330 g) pineapple chunks
• 1 pound (455 g) shelled edamame (use chickpeas)
• 1 can (15 ounces, or 425 g) baby corn, rinsed and drained
• 1 cup (150 g) green peas, fresh or frozen
• 6 cups (1.2 kg) cold cooked brown rice

INSTRUCTIONS

1. To make the sauce, in a small bowl, mix the ingredients together and set aside.
2. Heat the oil in a large sauté pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add the onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Then add the bell pepper, pineapple, edamame, and baby corn and cook until the mixture is heated through, about 10 minutes.
4. Add the sauce, green peas, and cold rice and cook, stirring constantly so nothing sticks.
5. Once the rice is hot, the peas should be cooked, and it’s ready to serve. That should take 5 to 10 minutes.

PER 2-CUP (455 G) SERVING WITH EDAMAME:

• 391.0 calories; 9.8 g total fat; 1.2 g saturated fat; 13.9 g protein; 63.7 g carbohydrate; 10.4 g dietary fiber; 0 mg cholesterol.

FANCY BEAN SUBSTITUTES:

• Scarlet Runner, Tepary, Good Mother Stallard