Pineapple Fried Rice Recipe

Prepare rice

If using freshly cooked rice, spread it on a tray and refrigerate or air for at least 30 minutes to remove excess moisture. Day-old refrigerated rice works best and should be loosened with a fork before cooking.

Heat wok or large skillet

Place a large wok or heavy skillet over high heat. Add 1 tablespoon vegetable oil and swirl to coat until shimmering.

Scramble eggs: pour beaten eggs into the hot wok, tilt to make a thin omelet, cook until just set, then remove to a plate and roughly chop into bite-sized pieces.

Add remaining 2 tablespoons oil to the wok and reduce heat to medium-high. Add minced garlic, chopped shallot, and grated ginger. Stir-fry 30–45 seconds until fragrant but not browned.

Add the loosened rice to the wok, breaking up any clumps. Stir-fry 2–3 minutes so rice heats through and begins to pick up the aromatics.

Push rice to the sides of the wok to create a well in the center. Add diced carrot and red bell pepper to the center with 1 tablespoon oil if needed. Stir-fry 2–3 minutes until carrots begin to soften.

Add pineapple cubes and thawed peas. Continue stir-frying 1–2 minutes so pineapple warms and releases some juice. If using shrimp or raw protein, add it now and stir until cooked through (shrimp 2–3 minutes, chicken/tofu longer).

Return the scrambled eggs to the wok, breaking them into pieces and mixing them evenly through the rice and vegetables.

Whisk together light soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, sugar, white pepper, and lime juice in a small bowl.

Pour the sauce over the rice mixture. Toss continuously for 1–2 minutes to evenly coat the rice. Taste and adjust seasoning: add up to 1/2 tablespoon more soy for saltiness, or extra lime for brightness, if needed.

Stir in sliced scallion whites and chopped nuts. Remove from heat and fold in scallion greens and cilantro (if using).

Transfer the pineapple fried rice to a serving platter or into hollowed pineapple halves for presentation. Serve hot with lime wedges on the side.

Optional: sprinkle extra chopped toasted nuts and additional cilantro before serving.