This vegan pineapple fried rice is sweet, savory, colorful, and packed with tropical flavor. Juicy pineapple, vegetables, fragrant rice, and a savory sauce come together in one quick skillet meal.
Inspired by Thai-style pineapple fried rice, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or entertaining.
Serves
4 people
Ingredients
For the Fried Rice
- 4 cups cooked jasmine rice
(preferably cold, day-old rice) - 1½ cups pineapple chunks
- 2 tbsp neutral oil
(coconut, avocado, or vegetable oil) - 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 carrot, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup peas
- 3 green onions, sliced
- ½ cup roasted cashews or peanuts
Sauce
- 3 tbsp soy sauce or tamari
- 1 tbsp maple syrup or brown sugar
- 1 tsp curry powder
- ½ tsp turmeric
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp lime juice
Optional Add-Ins
- Tofu cubes
- Edamame
- Chili flakes
- Fresh ginger
- Cilantro
- Thai basil
Optional Garnishes
- Lime wedges
- Fresh cilantro
- Extra green onions
- Sesame seeds
- Chopped peanuts or cashews
Best Rice for Fried Rice
Ideal Choice
- Cold day-old jasmine rice
Why?
Fresh hot rice becomes mushy.
If making fresh rice:
- Spread on a tray.
- Cool completely before using.
Step 1: Mix the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together:
- Soy sauce
- Maple syrup
- Curry powder
- Turmeric
- Sesame oil
- Lime juice
Set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Vegetables
- Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add onion and carrot.
- Cook for 3–4 minutes.
- Add garlic and bell pepper.
- Cook another 2 minutes.
Step 3: Add the Pineapple
- Add pineapple chunks.
- Cook for 2–3 minutes until lightly caramelized.
Slight browning adds amazing flavor.
Step 4: Add the Rice
- Break apart cold rice with your hands or spoon.
- Add rice to the skillet.
- Stir-fry for 3–5 minutes.
Allow some rice to crisp slightly.
Step 5: Add Sauce & Peas
- Pour sauce over the rice.
- Add peas.
- Stir thoroughly until evenly coated and heated through.
Cook another 2–3 minutes.
Step 6: Finish the Dish
Turn off heat and stir in:
- Green onions
- Cashews or peanuts
- Fresh herbs if using
Taste and adjust seasoning.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with:
- Crispy tofu
- Spring rolls
- Stir-fried vegetables
- Thai cucumber salad
- Sweet chili sauce
Protein Additions
Crispy Tofu
Cube and pan-fry tofu before adding.
Edamame
Adds extra protein and color.
Tempeh
Great for a nuttier flavor.
Flavor Variations
Spicy Version
Add:
- Sriracha
- Thai chilies
- Chili garlic sauce
Coconut Pineapple Rice
Add:
- 2–3 tbsp coconut milk
Thai-Inspired Version
Add:
- Fresh basil
- Ginger
- Lime zest
Chef Tips
- High heat gives the best fried rice texture.
- Avoid overcrowding the pan.
- Day-old rice is the secret to non-mushy fried rice.
- Caramelized pineapple adds depth and sweetness.
Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator
- Store up to 4 days.
Reheating
- Reheat in a skillet for best texture.
- Add a splash of water if dry.
Approximate Nutrition (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350–500
- Protein: 7–12g
- Carbs: 50–65g
- Fat: 10–18g
